Long Islanders with Alzheimer’s and dementia perform holiday concert in Bethpage

Westbury-based nonprofit Long Island Alzheimer’s & Dementia Center (LIAD) hosted a holiday concert at the Bethpage Senior Center in Bethpage on Saturday, Dec. 13.

The show featured the center’s ‘Sharp Notes’ chorus of Long Islanders who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or dementia and receive services at LIAD.

More than 100 friends and family members came out to see the 26 chorus members, ages 70 to 96, who sang holiday favorites including “White Christmas,” “Jingle Bell Rock,” and an original song, “The Eight Nights of Hannukah,” based on “The 12 Days of Christmas.”

“Music is a huge part of everyone’s life,” said Tori Cohen, executive director of the Long Island Alzheimer’s & Dementia Center. “Specifically for people with Alzheimer’s and Dementia, they hold on to songs and words for a very long time. Seeing the families here engaged and happy feels great. It’s proof that this can be a happy environment. It doesn’t have to be sad.”

The Sharp Notes chorus rehearses weekly as part of LIAD’s music therapy program, which began in 2019. The program highlights how performance is not only enjoyable but also therapeutic, demonstrating how music supports memory, mood, communication, and community for those living with Alzheimer’s and dementia.

“You don’t get a chance to sing like this in front of this many people. It’s just amazing,” said Jean Brophy, 72, of Floral Park, a former singer and guitar player, and the music director for her church. “Singing can be so expressive and emotional. You can laugh when you sing, you can cry when you sing. That’s why I think music is so special.