A weekly singalong in Andover has grown into something

The Andover Memory Choir, founded in 2018, uses the power of music to bring connection, joy and moments of memory back into everyday life for those who are affected by dementia.

The Memory Choir was created by Kim Garner, a retired social care professional with a lifelong love of singing.

The Andover Memory Choir in action (Image: Kim Garner)

The idea began when Ms Garner was invited by Andover Rocks to run singing workshops for the Community Mental Health Team.

What started with just two or three people quickly grew, as word spread and more people began to experience the benefits of singing together.

Ms Garner said: “It became clear very quickly that there was something special happening.”

“People were reconnecting with memories, with each other, and with themselves.”

One particularly moving moment confirmed this for her.

During a session featuring songs from films, a man living with advanced dementia suddenly turned to his wife and said, 'I took you to see this on our first date,' as the choir sang Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on My Head.

Ms Garner said: “That was the moment I knew this was more than just a singing group."

Today, the Andover Memory Choir regularly welcomes over 30 members, including people living with dementia, carers, family members, friends and volunteers. There are no auditions or referrals – people are simply encouraged to turn up and join in. Inclusivity is central to the choir’s ethos, creating a space where no one feels labelled or left out.

The choir has performed widely, from local venues and garden centres to Winchester University, the Ministry of Justice and even recording a song that gained international attention online.

The Andover Memory Choir in action (Image: Kim Garner)

Ms Garner is keen that members enjoy the same experiences as any other choir, with plenty of audience participation and shared joy.

Members say the choir has become a vital part of their lives. Graham Mottley said, “We’d be lost without it. You see people come in very quiet, but after a few weeks they open up. It’s absolutely brilliant.”

Volunteer Will added, “It’s the highlight of the week for many people. The atmosphere is joyful, supportive and welcoming, it really brings people out of their shell.”

The group also thanked Carol and Julie, who provided the group with tea and coffee when they meet.

From its beginnings in Andover, the Memory Choir has now grown to 12 groups across Hampshire, but for Ms Garner, the Andover choir will always be where the magic began.

The group meet every Tuesday at the Royal British Legion in Andover from 11am.