Frequently Asked Questions

  • ​Who are the Tremble Clefs?

    We are a therapeutic singing program for people living with Parkinson's disease and their care partners. The primary element of our program is participation in what we call “Sing Strong Sessions”, led by our dynamic Music Director, who holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Linguistics and has a keen sense of the unique needs of those living with Parkinson’s. Participants report improved swallowing, vocal strength and volume, increased confidence, and value the opportunities to socialize with others.

  • ​Do I need to audition or have singing experience?

    No singing experience or audition is necessary. Do you feel you are tone deaf and can’t hold a tune?  We are not concerned.  While our style of vocal work involves singing, our primary goal is to help participants express themselves clearly and loudly as well as swallow foods safely - avoiding choking or aspiration.  We love to help build strength and confidence on this journey with Parkinson’s.

  • Does it cost anything to join?

    The program is available at no cost to participants!

    Ready to join? Click here

  • Do I have to perform for crowds?

    No. While we enjoy demonstrating our resilience and sharing our joy within our community by way of occasional performances, participating in this way is not mandatory by any means.  If you enjoy performing, you are welcome to join us on various outings that will surely bring you as much joy as our audiences experience.

  • What is a Sing Strong Session?

    Sing Strong Sessions are 90 minutes of FUN with friends that include warming up the muscles in our bodies, warming up our voices, and singing diverse song sets (chosen by our members) along with Music Director, Matt Ignacio!  Matt displays the lyrics of the songs we sing on an easy-to-see, easy-to-read tv screen at the front of the room, so there is no need to hold lyric sheets and no fear of forgetting the words!  Should you decide to join us on Zoom, Matt will appear on your screen as he guides us through warm-ups. When it’s time to sing, the lyrics will be boldly displayed on your computer screen! 

  • What will I be singing?

    After we spend time warming up our voices, we sing rotating sets of songs selected by our members in partnership with our Music Director.  Usually, they are popular, mainstream songs by familiar artists from all genres.  We typically choose themes, then select songs together that support the chosen themes.

  • How will I know the song lyrics?

    No need to memorize lyrics! Each site has a large, flat screen television. The lyrics are displayed in bold print that can be easily seen and read from any point within the space. Joining on Zoom? The lyrics are boldly displayed on your device screen. Prefer a printed copy? The lyrics are included in a weekly announcement sent out by our Music Director in a printable format for you to print at home!

  • When and where do Tremble Clefs meet for Sing Strong Sessions?

    We offer four locations throughout San Diego. View our locations. here.

    Drop-ins are always welcome!

  • Are the session sites accessible under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)?

    Yes!  All Tremble Clefs San Diego locations are wheelchair and walker friendly, with accessible restrooms.

  • What if I can't make it in person?

    If you’re not able to join us in person, you may join us virtually through Zoom.

  • Can I volunteer?

    Yes! We welcome your partnership! Learn more here.