6th January 2021

It was a big step forward on the road to normality when singers and musicians joined members at Old Silk Works Club for a special Christmas concert.

Special, because the musicians from Wiltshire Rural Music weren't really present, but beamed in via video link for a concert complete with song requests, audience participation and all the magic of a live performance.

Grant Newton, head of day care at Alzheimer's Support said: This marks a big step back to normality for us - and was a wonderful Christmas present.

"We are very much missing the live music performers that were such a big part of our day clubs pre-Covid. This was as close as we could get to the real thing, with a video link to a digital projector, a big screen normally used for slide shows and an iPad. It allowed club members and performers to see and hear each other and interact individually and as an audience, including requesting songs and sharing stories. 

"Huge thanks to Gavin Osborn, Jamie and all at Wiltshire Rural Music for making it happen, for managing the technology and creating the video. We're already planning the next performance!"

In the video, club manager Lou Gover explains how it's been a long road back for club members who struggled with the social isolation of lockdown, and how the interaction and joy of live music events can make such a difference. 

More about day care at Alzheimer's Support