Chime Choir set to release new CD just in time for Christmas

BY JENNIFER HOEGG

NovaNewsNow.com

Windsor’s Dykeland Lodge has something most long-term care facilities don’t; a new CD. Their Chime Choir will release its second recording this week, just in time for Christmas.

Under the direction of Music Therapist Ben Robertson and the home’s recreation department, the Chime Choir has been running for more than two years. Putting together an album of Christmas songs is a major achievement for the choir, a product of months of hard work by the residents, Robertson and Dykeland’s dedicated recreation staff. “They treat recording sessions very professionally,” Robertson says of the choir’s members. “They take the choir very seriously,” Robertson added, “and I thought (producing a CD) would be special for the residents.”

The CD is a special for many reasons. For the residents, it’s a mark of their hard work and dedication. As Robertson says, “for people in a long-term care facility, a sense of accomplishment is not something you get very often.”

For families of residents, it can serve as a reminder of the joy and satisfaction that participation in the choir brings to their loved ones at Dykeland.

Practice every Tuesday

Christmas is not the only time the Choir shines. “Those involved practice every Tuesday morning and really look forward to it.” Fourteen or more residents are involved at any time. They play special chimes, similar to hand bells, but easier for people with limited mobility or strength to handle. Many of the men and women involved had no musical experience before joining, Robertson said.

Playing in the choir takes dedication. Members must pay close attention to Robertson’s direction for up to 45 minutes at a time, as he uses hand signals to direct the chimes. “When they’re playing, they’re totally focused on what they are doing,” he said.

Recreation Director Sherry Sanford is impressed with the effort required. “I sat in one day and it was very difficult.”

She’s thrilled also with the effect participation in the choir has on its members. “Last Tuesday, they were getting dressed and ready before breakfast,” she said.

Dykeland’s Chime Choir performs for family and friends Christmas Eve at 1 pm. “They’re just raring to go,” Sanford said.

The Chime Choir Christmas CD is available through Dykeland Lodge’s recreation department.