Living with dementia – a musical conversation

Journalist and broadcaster Beti George hosted an evening of innovative live music and conversation about life with dementia, with a special emphasis on family carers.

An ensemble of 13 musicians performed a series of short, thought-provoking pieces featuring the voices of people with dementia and the partners who care for them. Building on music and verbatim drama interventions undertaken by Pontio Arts in care homes, and on research led by Prof Bob Woods of Bangor University, composer Andrew Lewis created these unique musical portraits of life with dementia. The aim was to break the silence that often surrounds the topic, giving voice to the real-life, day-to-day experience of what is fast becoming the defining medical condition of our age.

Along with the music, Beti George was in conversation with a series of special guests, people with dementia, carers, researchers and some of those whose voices are heard in the pieces. With comments and questions from audience, this was an inspiring evening of music and conversation, exploring the highs and lows of living well with dementia.