CMC partners with EngAGE to provide a Cantonese Older Adult Choir

CMC is proud to partner with EngAGE to provide a Cantonese older adult choir residency at a Mercy Housing site in the Tenderloin. EngAGE is an organization that promotes arts, wellness, lifelong learning, community building, and intergenerational programs to thousands of seniors and families living in affordable senior and multi-generational apartment communities in California, Oregon, and Minnesota. Mercy Housing is one of the nation’s largest developers of affordable housing. The new choir had its first meeting in late February and is directed by CMC faculty member, David Wong.

Each week, about 30 people come together to learn a variety of Chinese music. The new choir is modeled after other choirs in the Older Adult Choir Program through the guidance of Older Adult Choir Program staff, faculty, and the use of the Community of Voices Program Manual, following a routine that includes physical and vocal exercises, learning songs, and opportunities for socializing. Their first performance is scheduled for Monday, May 13 at Glide Memorial’s monthly celebration of birthdays.

The choir has been well-received with favorable feedback from the participants, and CMC is looking forward to continued partnership with EngAGE and serving more seniors in affordable housing communities.

To learn more about how singing in choirs reduces loneliness and increases interest in life for older adults, watch this CNN story featuring CMC Coro Solera Older Adult Choir and CMC Older Adult Choir Program staff.