Glen Haven releases music therapy video
NEW GLASGOW — A new video called “Hold Each Other Up” has been created at Glen Haven Manor to highlight the benefits of music therapy.
Heather Leeder, a music therapist at Glen Haven Manor in New Glasgow, recently attended an American Music Therapy Association virtual conference on behalf of Glen Haven. One of the responsibilities from the conference was to implement education in her workplace. From that, Leeder had the idea to create this video with a bit of help from residents and staff at Glen Haven.
“Music therapy uses music to support relationship building and takes a personcentred holistic approach,” explains Leeder. “It sheds light, awareness and builds understanding, and is so much more than music. The circle, which is a technique used as part of our sessions, enables connection. When it lights up, there is an exciting, powerful energy. This is a sacred space, giving confidence and comfort to residents, demonstrating that deep down our differences are few.”
Music therapy may encompass music listening, sharing and discussion of songs, song writing, learning of songs, musical exercise and more, she explained.
“It empowers continued expressions throughout life, including our older years,” she said. “Music therapy creates a bridge to foster relationships and connect our community at large. It is about being a part of the process, making decisions on songs or instruments to play, having an opportunity to reminisce and truly feel connected, heard and respected.”
This video includes the contributions of several residents and staff at Glen Haven who took on lead roles. Lead vocalist is Leeder while Jeannie Cameron, Glen Haven hairstylist, along with LPN Marcey Olender are on harmonies. Resident Jack Ellis is featured on the guitar and resident Dena George also has a special singing part. LPN Bree Jenkins adds a few moments of Irish and Highland dancing steps.
Throughout the video, groups of residents sing in unison with staff and play various instruments. Cameron, who is also in the band Inner Voice, says she was thrilled when Leeder asked her to sing in the video recording.
“I love the residents and having them a part of my life is very special. Our team never skips a beat in all they do. The residents love Heather and her upbeat spirit. She brings this to them every time they are a part of her music therapy.”
Olender and Jenkins both said they were very excited to be part of the production.
Olender, who was a part of a bluegrass band for 15 years, commented: “If it helps the residents, then I am all in. Everyone is talking about the video and there is great anticipation.”
Resident Dena George said it was a great privilege to be asked by Heather to have a role in the video. She has been singing since she was three years old, and it has always been a big part of her life.
“If it helps the residents, then I am all in. Everyone is talking about the video and there is great anticipation.” Marcey Olender
Multimedia professional and videographer Jon Visser of Raven-Media said the song track was completed through separate, individual recordings due to the public health protocols and then integrated. On the recorded track, local musician Merton Arbuckle on djembe, cajon and shaker and Michael Freeman on bass added to the production, making it a full residents, staff, and community collaboration.
“It breathes beautifully in a real life, natural setting,” Visser said. “There is the feel of a community, a home and a family that is authentic. It makes you want to clap your hands and tap your toes.”