ARTICLES

MOVIN' WITH THE CSO

“Well, that got everybody smiling!” says music therapist Kimberley Wade as the last notes of Can Can fade away. Sitting amidst gym equipment are people living with physical and neurological disability and they have been collaborating alongside Christchurch Symphony Orchestra musicians as part of a Music Movement Group from Southern Music Therapy.

THE CANTABRAINERS CHOIR - MORE THAN JUST MUSIC

'Everyone can sing' is an oft touted phrase.

For people who have suffered a stroke, or who live with Parkinson's or Multiple Sclerosis it can seem like an insurmountable challenge. It’s a challenge, however, that has proven to be a pathway to speech.

Enter the Cantabrainers Therapeutic Choir, a singing group dedicated to supporting people with neurological conditions.

What began as an idea over a cup of tea some 10 years ago has morphed into a charitable trust with over 35 members, volunteers, and therapists all meeting once a week to belt out tunes.

MASTER OF MUSIC THERAPY

Effective with new born babies through to old age, music therapy claims positive change for people who are under stress, have intellectual, physical or emotional needs, neurological conditions, a terminal illness or

USING THE POWER OF MUSIC TO HELP PEOPLE

Treating neurological conditions using music therapy has long gone under the radar. But Avonhead resident Kimberley Wade doesn’t want the treatment to be a “secret” anymore. Eight years ago Mrs Wade, who runs her private practice Southern Music Therapy

CANTABRAINERS A CONSTANT VOICE

“Two of our men have gorgeous, chocolatey, rich baritone voices. We have people from all walks of life: policemen, milkmen, auctioneers, business owners. Many have never sung before and in no time they are loving it,” says Angela Reimer

THE CHOIR PROVIDING A CHANCE TO HEAL, PERFORM AND SOCIALISE

Bruce Whitfield's eyes fill with tears when he is asked about his membership in the Cantabrainers​ choir.

"I always get emotional ... thankfully it's only ever good things."

ONE IN FIVE FOR 22 JUNE 2014 - CANTABRAINERS

A new therapeutic choir, based upon Auckland's Celebration Choir, has been boosting both the vocal abilities and the confidence of a Christchurch group with neurological disorders.

KIWIBANK LOCAL HERO MEDALISTS
MEET YOUR TOP 100 LOCAL LEGENDS

The Kiwibank Local Hero of the Year Award - Te Pou Toko o te Tau recognises everyday people doing extraordinary things in their local hapori – communities over the past year.

BEYOND INCLUSION: EVERYONE DESERVES TO BELONG

May Clulee is one of over 70 registered music therapists in Aotearoa New Zealand, with a strong stance on disability advocacy. To celebrate Music Therapy Week (19-25 October), The Big Idea asked May what issues need to be raised to the wider creative community

MUSIC MATTERS FOR THE BRAIN

The hills of Dairy Flat are alive with the sounds of music whenever James Wong, 7, and music therapist May Clulee get together.

James, who loves The Sound of Music, has regular music therapy sessions with Clulee.