When it's too tough to talk, sometimes it's easier to just sing.
That's why the Port Coquitlam branch of the Stroke Recovery Association of B.C. is inviting anyone with speech difficulties - or those who simply enjoy the sound of music - to join The Singing Project for weekly sessions at the Michael Wright Art Gallery at Leigh Square Community Arts Village.
"There is research that shows people with aphasia or other communication disorders after a stroke, that singing helps people recall words," said co-ordinator Deanna MacKinnon. "People can sing even if they can't speak."
She put together a Port Coquitlam Community Foundation proposal to use the piano at Leigh Square for a singing group that would welcome everyone in the community, whether they have speech difficulties or not, and The Singing Project was born late last fall. "I thought that would be a beautiful space for people to come together and sing... and nobody is excluded," MacKinnon said. The group gives participants a chance to flex their speech muscles in a relaxed, welcoming environment - and one that's free.
MacKinnon said it's an important option because speech language pathology can be expensive for people who may be on a limited disability income.
And the results are significant, MacKinnon said, with participants who are coming out of their shells, and enjoying the company and music.
The group has a repertoire of about 40 songs with broad appeal, including everything from Leonard Cohen's Hallelujah to a few Elvis tunes.
The Singing Project meets Thursdays from 1 to 2:30 p.m. at the Leigh Square Community Arts Village (beside PoCo city hall). Contact 604-812-3219 or portcoquitlamstrokerecovery@gmail.com.
