Volunteer music people

About Our Pilot Study

Dementia is one of the most common neurocognitive disorders vastly affecting older adults worldwide. Dementia is a chronic or progressive disorder of the central nervous system that gradually affects cognitive functions.

While there is no cure for dementia, treatment is available. Music has proven to benefit a wide range of older adults afflicted with cognitive decline. According to research, music has been effective in decreasing dementia related behaviors including agitation, anxiety, and depression as well as improving overall quality of life.

The Mind&Melody Music Program for Participants Experiencing Dementia is designed to cater to those without a music background, and are taught by a team of volunteers that work together to share their passion for teaching, performing music, and improving the quality of life for people with dementia.

The program provides the opportunity for community involvement and simultaneously raises awareness about dementia. Students are given the opportunity to earn community service hours and learn about the daily lives of people with dementia.

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Mind&Melody is a nonprofit organization implementing interactive music programs at healthcare facilities for individuals experiencing Alzheimer's. We bring live performances (on Zoom or in-person), encourage sing-alongs, create a social space, lead activities based on music theory, and spread joy through music!

We are a team of individuals that use music to help seniors [experiencing neurological decline] regain pieces of themselves, while instilling purpose and empathy in younger generations. We also work with children and young adults with special needs to help them find their strengths, gain confidence, and build friendships. We currently have Mind&Melody programs running statewide and are looking to create more programs by the end of this year!

So if you want to be part of carrying out this vision and are excited about helping people through music, this session leader internship was made for you! You will be able to use your teaching skills and personality to engage with participants and help brighten their day!

Volunteer Position Description

Objective The Session Leader will be responsible for leading the entire music session by teaching the participants the lesson and directing all the planned activities, such as singing songs and playing music games. Training is provided. He/She will report to the Program Coordinator.

*Sessions are In-person*

Locations

We are hiring in New York and the Bronx!

Primary Responsibilities (including, But Not Limited To)

• Arriving at least 15mins before the start of the session to set up.
• Lead the music session
• Must be present at every session
• Creating a lesson plan a week before the actual session
• Must have reliable transportation
• The lesson plan should include
  • Chronological list of all planned activities for the session
  • Estimate of how long each activity will take
  • Songs which will be sung and how this will be done (karaoke, guitar/piano accompaniment, etc.) Print out lyrics & sheet music
  • Certain key phrases or analogies that will be used to help participants understand the lesson
  • Backup plan
• Communicate with other volunteers participating in the sessions
  • Coordinate performances into session plan with other musicians
    
    

Gift for your time $25-$40/hr

Skills Needed

• Ability to communicate ideas and interact with others via social media (currently using Facebook,Whatsapp, Asana and GoogleDrive)
• Strong public speaking and teaching skills
• Basic musical knowledge (ability to play an instrument is a plus)
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Organizational skills and attention to detail (mainly for creating session plans)
• Creativity and flexibility (adaptable to unexpected situations)
• Patience & desire to help others
  
  

To Apply

Please email 1) a copy of your resume, 2) a paragraph of why you want the position and in which city you’re applying for 3) short video showcasing your musical talent to [email protected]