Singing by Heart 

A welcoming space where music, memory, and community meet. 

What Is Singing by Heart?

Singing by Heart is a dementia-friendly music program rooted in compassion, presence, and community. It brings people together for familiar songs, spiritual reflection, and meaningful connection. For many participants and caregivers, these sessions become a bright anchor in the week: a place where joy is shared, stories surface, and community is found.  

Each gathering blends simple elements that matter:

• well-known songs
• live music
• scripture and encouragement
• warm hospitality
• time for connection over refreshments

You don't need to be an expert musician. You just need a heart for people. 

Who Is It For? 

Singing by Heart is designed especially for:

• People living with dementia or other forms of memory loss
• Caregivers who need a supportive space to breathe and connect
• Community members who benefit from routine, relationships, and music 

Everyone participates together. No pressure. No performances. Just shared presence. 

Why It Matters?

Dementia touches millions of families across Canada. While there is no cure, one thing consistently helps people stay connected: meaningful engagement. Music reaches places that words struggle to reach. When someone lights up during a favourite hymn or remembers a melody they haven’t sung in years, you see something sacred happening. Singing by Heart creates these moments, not by accident but through attentive, relational ministry. Caregivers often tell us this program becomes a lifeline—something their loved one looks forward to, and something they can share together. 

Your Team: Simple, Doable, Heart-Forward 

To run Singing by Heart, you only need a small team:

• A Session Leader: Guides singing and offers brief scripture moments and prayers.
• A Musician: Guitar, piano, or any instrument. (A cappella works too.)
• One or Two Supporting Volunteers: Help with songbooks, hospitality, and conversation.

These roles are accessible for most corps. The strength of the program isn’t complexity; it’s consistency and kindness. 

Training & Preparation 

To help your corps offer safe, welcoming, and dementia-friendly gatherings, Singing by Heart includes three short but essential training components. These ensure your team feels confident, equipped, and supported as they lead. 

1. Dementia Awareness – Part 1

Developed in partnership with the Alzheimer Society of Ontario, this introductory session builds a foundational understanding of dementia. Your team will learn how memory changes can affect communication, behaviour, and emotions—and how to create an environment where every participant feels secure and valued.

2. Dementia Awareness – Part 2: Don’t Forget Me

This ministry-focused session explores what compassionate care looks like in a church setting. It invites leaders to embody respect, presence, and dignity as they engage with participants and caregivers.

3. Singing by Heart Leaders Training

This hands-on session provides practical skills for leading Singing by Heart—from preparing your space, to guiding moments of reflection, to supporting participants with patience and kindness. Leaders learn how to facilitate an atmosphere where joy, connection, and spiritual encouragement flourish. 

Bring Singing by Heart to Your Community 

Whether your corps is large or small, this program is designed to fit your context and grow naturally with your people. With a handful of volunteers, basic equipment, and a heart for hospitality, you can create a life-giving space for neighbors and families navigating dementia.