Many of you have likely heard of the renowned Dance for PD® program developed by the Mark Morris Dance Group in Brooklyn, NY, and hopefully you have had a chance to check out their free archive of movement classes offered through the Dance for PD® website.
I’d love to share with you another wonderful resource provided by this organization called Sing for PD! “Sing for PD classes are led by professional singers who share their joy of singing and the knowledge they have acquired through years of training about how to project their voices and enunciate clearly. The classes were initiated in 2006 by Brooklyn Parkinson Group (BPG) at the request of its members. In them, participants focus on breath and rhythm in support of articulation and projection, as well as choral explorations of Broadway favorites, American standards, and specialized styles.”
We have learned that Parkinson’s disease can really take a toll on our voices, affecting vocal loudness, articulation, and vocal quality. There are many ways to treat this issue, for example Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT LOUD) classes, the Parkinson’s Voice Project SPEAK OUT!, and expiratory muscle strength training (EMST). Many people living with Parkinson’s choose to work on their vocal skills through singing in a choir, improving their breath support and strong voicing, as well as lifting their spirits!
Access Philip’s class, where you will enjoy practicing your vocal technical skills and singing some favorite American and international classics, including Take Me Out to the Ballgame, Home on the Range, Girl from Ipanema, and Route 66, all from the comfort of your own home! Download the companion lyric sheets. Practice your breathing, improvisational and rhythmical skills with Philip during this fun and engaging voice class!
Shannon Elliott earned her Master’s in dance from York University and famously trod the boards and regaled audiences of the professional dance world for more than 20 years. Her career was and is storied. Always up for expanding her horizons, Shannon executed a full-on career pivot at the opportune moment and applied her artistry to the field of health and wellness. Someone should write a book about this. A teacher at heart, Shannon earned her personal training and group fitness certifications and began teaching Dance for PD® classes for seniors and those living with Parkinson disease. As the PMD Alliance In Sync Network Manager, she expertly blends elements of dance and movement with the opportunity to help support group leaders expand their roles and deepen their engagement in the movement disorder communities.
