This choral group is comprised of people living with Parkinson’s, family members, caregivers, and volunteer singers from Key Chorale. Led by Artistic Director, Joseph Caulkins, the Off-Key Chorale provides an opportunity for individuals with Parkinson’s disease to improve and strengthen their voices through singing, and provides a fellowship activity for people whose social opportunities are often limited by this disease.
Each semester Mr. Caulkins creates a unique curriculum of vocal exercises, breathing exercises, and musical selections around a theme which concludes with an end of session performance for friends and family.
Off-Key Chorale is a partnership with Neuro Challenge Foundation for Parkinson’s, Key Chorale of Sarasota and Artist Series Concerts of Sarasota.
Neuro Challenge Foundation for Parkinson’s is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life of people with Parkinson’s disease and their caregivers through service, education and research. To learn more, please visit their website at ParkinsonsNeuroChallenge.org.
The Observer Group’s Nick Friedman wrote a wonderful article about “Off-Key” Chorale, click to read HERE
I am so grateful for KC singers who volunteer for this event. Last week’s concert sounded great and the energy was fun. Joe does a good job picking songs that are easy and some that are challenging.
Person living with Parkinson’s
Schedule
SPRING SESSION:
Thursday, March 14 – May 9, 2024
(No rehearsal on March 28 due to Easter)
12:45-1:45 PM
LOCATION: Senior Friendship Center Cafe
1888 Brother Geenen Way, Sarasota, FL 34236
If you are interested, or would like more information, contact Ellen Schaller, Community Outreach Specialist
941.921.4845 or email her HERE
People with Parkinson Disease (PD) have difficulty with just about every aspect of life, including mobility, balance, motor control, emotional expression, vocal control, and communication. Working with Neuro Challenge Foundation for Parkinson’s, Joseph Caulkins put together a fantastic program called Off-Key Chorale. People with PD absolutely love this opportunity to engage in singing and performance, which not only brings joy to them and their community, but also allows them to exercise their voice, their lungs, and their bodies at the same time. I often hear my patients say things like “I don’t even think about my PD while doing Off-Key Chorale!” Now with the Come Together Choir Interactive Toolkits for Senior Enrichment these types of experiences are available to seniors everywhere. Thank you, Joseph Caulkins!
Dr. Dean P. Sutherland MD, Neurology Specialist
