Dubbo's Sing Out Choir for people with dementia holds first major concert

The Sing Out Choir uses the power of music to lift moods and create a community. (ABC Western Plains: Kenji Sato)

With the lights dimmed and curtains raised, retired pharmacist John Manny concentrates on staying on his feet.

"Last time I was on this stage I fell over, so I'm going to try to stay upright this time," Mr Manny said.

The octogenarian is one of the stars of the Sing Out Choir, a hospital-led program to treat dementia patients through the power of music.

The Dubbo program is the first of its kind west of the Blue Mountains, and they spent the past nine months rehearsing for last night's big show.

The theatre was fully packed with families from around the region wanting to see their nans and pops debut on stage.

John Manny steeling his nerves before the big show at the Dubbo Regional Theatre.  (ABC Western Plains: Kenji Sato)

According to Mr Manny said the rehearsals have become the highlight of the week.

"Everyone enjoys it so much — you can feel the endorphin level in the place lift from the time we start singing," Mr Manny said.

Retired railway worker Les Orton said he found new friends at choir practice as well as old friends he hadn't seen in years.

The 77-year-old became friends with a fellow guitar player, Peter, and now they have started holding weekly jam sessions.

Les Orton says the Sing Out Choir has put a spring in his step.  (ABC Western Plains: Kenji Sato)

"Because everyone's having such a good time, it's just like a party," Mr Orton said.

"Every time you go away from here of a Tuesday lunchtime, you're just filled with joy and happiness."

'Just mood changing'

Western NSW Local Health District dementia counsellor Anne Gemmell said she had seen the spark return to people's eyes throughout the course of the program.

Anne Gemmell says music is like medicine for the brain.  (ABC Western Plains: Kenji Sato)

"Singing and music ignite neurons in the brain and we actually see people come alive," Ms Gemmell said.

"We are seeing language skills improving with conversation and just mood changing. We're seeing people more uplifted and happy in their demeanour."

Pianist Sharon Simons said the humble choir had started with 25 singers in July last year and had since grown to more than 90 members.

Ms Simons said within that time they had fostered a real sense of camaraderie.

"We've really built a sense of community, of family even, amongst the Sing Out Choir," Ms Simons said.

"It's a space where you can go, enjoy, and be."

Sharon Simons says the Sing Out Choir is like a family.  (ABC Western Plains: Kenji Sato)