LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18) – Every Friday, a group of adults with special needs gets together for choir practice… but it’s not just about singing and dancing.
When the beat hits, it’s almost impossible to sit still in the city’s therapeutic choir class…even for the instructors.
“My face muscles hurt when I leave because I end up smiling and laughing. It’s not only educational but it’s fun for us and everyone,” Erin Tuttle, the choir director told LEX 18.
The joy is contagious, but it’s also important to remember the music is not just about having a good time. It’s helping the participants develop social skills and to relax a little from day-to-day stresses.
Jocylen Harris is one of the 23 class members. Everyone involved has a wide range of special needs and Harris says the music is helping her change her life.
“I used to not be able to come outside and do stuff. I had a lot of panic attacks and it was very hard for me to get outside and do stuff and now it’s helped me to do Special Olympics and make new friends in that too,” said Harris with a giddy smile.
That doesn’t mean that the class participants don’t get to have the occasional dance party.
Music has many amazing therapeutic aspects. The Carver Center has a group of special needs adults that meet every Friday for choir practice. Its a highlight of the week for many participants! @LEX18News pic.twitter.com/YYg9ANIIDR
— Eleanor Buckley (@elbuckleyTV) March 22, 2019
To learn more about programs offered by Lexington’s Parks and Recreation, clickhere.
