Singing offers natural therapeutic value for
many of the voice symptoms associated with
Parkinson Disease. Singing also provides
the focus for a group of people with
Parkinson's, and their partners, to share in
a joyful activity and work toward a common
goal.
The Tremble Clefs Program establishes singing
groups with these primary benefits. Focus
is on utilizing good breathing practice,
louder voice volume and wider pitch range;
thus addressing some of the most serious
voice symptoms found in people with
Parkinson's. One of the typical
characteristics is a soft, breathy voice.
Other symptoms may include slurring and
monotone. People with Parkinson Disease
also may suffer from slowness of movement
and therefore reduced activity and sometimes
social isolation. Participation in a
Tremble Clefs singing program can help
overcome these problems through breathing,
stretching and posture activities, vocal
exercise, rhythm and movement, and a strong
social support system.
The benefits are enjoyed by those both with
and without previous singing experience.
The members rehearse regularly and may
perform throughout the community.
The Program simultaneously provides vocal
and physical exercise, while generating new
learning and challenges in a shared and
supportive social environment. Research has
shown that vocal exercise enhances voice
volume in people with Parkinson's, and that
the presence of music and rhythm improves
movement. Singing can be both physically
and emotionally invigorating, especially
when experienced with others who share the
same motivation and enthusiasm. The effort
invested by each member is rewarded by
new-found energy and the mutual support of
working together.