Music and Dementia: Two Case-studies

A Kirke, B Dixon, E Miranda

Research output: Contribution to journalConference proceedings published in a journalpeer-review

Abstract

In this paper two current related projects on music and dementia are described. One is a project which culminated in a performance made up of memory jingles, some of which were algorithmically generated and developed for an early-stage dementia patient. She provided a list of her ordered daily activities and a description of one of her medication dosages. The daily activity list was rhythmically adjusted, and a tune was written to it, by a composer. However it is not possible for all people with dementia to have a “composer-in-residence”. Hence computer music techniques were also investigated towards some form of automation of composition. This algorithm was used to compose a tune for the medication description from the volunteer. A few weeks later she exhibited the ability to recall both tunes and words in multiple informal environments (including high pressure situations). The second project is a form of “research by production”. It details the making of a 60 minute BBC radio program which was produced in collaboration with people living with dementia and experts and carers. The program consisted of a mixture of tunes and documentary segments. These discussed various topic relating to dementia, radio and music (including an on the above memory jingles research). The structure of the program was designed in such a way as to make it more understandable to people living with dementias.
Original languageEnglish
Number of pages0
JournalDefault journal
Volume0
Issue number0
Publication statusPublished - 16 Jun 2015
EventCMMR 2015 - Plymouth
Duration: 16 Jun 2015 → …

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