Gramophone revives old memories for people in Dorset with dementia

A music trust in Dorset is firing up the Gramophone to help people with dementia bring back some long-forgotten memories.

Coda Music Trust is releasing a series of videos featuring some classic vinyl records, played on an old gramophone dating back to the 30's.

Throughout lockdown and beyond, Coda Music Trust has worked hard to ensure that all of the vulnerable groups with whom it works can still access and enjoy music and music-making activities.

Phil Hallett, CEO of Coda Music Trust said:

“We're sure that many people have loved ones in their care who have fond memories of family gramophones and the music of the era.

"We want people to enjoy the Gramophone Time series and hope that it might be a useful tool for communication, engagement or just pure entertainment!”

The video clips feature Stuart Jebbit, an music leader who has many years of using music to engage with a wide variety of groups behind him.

In the videos, Stuart plays original 78s, introducing the music of the era along with images and facts relating to the songs, artists and time period.

It's designed to bring back memories and start conversations and connections.

In addition to the Gramophone Time series, Coda Music Trust will soon be launching a new Dansette Time series where Stuart will be moving from 78rpm to 45rpm and playing 7" singles on his reproduction Dansette, starting with Billy Fury.

These will all be added to the Gramophone Time webpage as they are released, so it is recommended that people keep revisiting the website for new content.

You can find out more on the Coda website here.