My Melody: New program puts memories into songs for aging adults
Owen Connor
Get ready to be inspired by My Melody! In this video, you’ll hear four original songs written by individuals living with early-stage dementia, alongside their care partners and professional teaching artists. Each song is a reflection of personal stories, dreams and shared laughter—sometimes nostalgic, sometimes humorous, but always heartfelt. Let these songs take you inside their creative journey.
This spring, Overture Center launched My Melody, a heartfelt pilot program that pairs teaching artists with individuals in the early stages of dementia and their care partners to create original songs. Inspired by the Lullaby Project, the program fosters connection, joy and creativity through music.
My Melody uses a similar framework to the Lullaby Project, which pairs parents with teaching artists to write songs for their babies. The team was delighted by how engaged and collaborative participants were.
“Once they got going, it was easy for them to tell stories, make decisions and guide the songwriting process,” shared Teaching Artist Coordinator Rebecca Redmann.
The free program offers a meaningful outlet during the dementia journey—celebrating the individual’s spirit and creating shared moments that resonate across generations.
"It's been a gift to see each person's unique take,” said Director of Education and Community Engagement Alanna Medearis. “Songs range from reflective to hopeful to humorous—in musical styles like polka, pop and folk."
MyMelody was developed in partnership with the Verona Senior Center staff with input from music therapists, the Institute for Music and Neurologic Function, and TimeSlips Creative Storytelling. It was piloted at Verona Senior Center through an ongoing partnership, which includes a song celebration, low-cost matinee performances and a special intergenerational Kids in the Rotunda event at the senior center.
As an independent nonprofit organization, Overture Center depends on donor support to offer free and affordable programs that enrich lives and connect our community through the arts. My Melody is supported by Quartz and friends like you.
