At Chiltern Music Therapy, we believe in the transformative power of music. Our community music groups provide a welcoming space for everyone to experience the joy of making music together. Led by our dedicated community musicians or Music Therapists, our groups ensure that everyone is valued and included. We offer specialised music groups for individuals with Parkinson’s, Dementia (and their carers), older adults, and those who have accessed mental health services, among others.

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Our Community Musicians

Music has the unique ability to communicate where words fall short. Our community musicians are not only skilled professionals but also people whose lives have been profoundly touched by music. Their personal lived experiences with music-making fuel their passion and empathy, making them highly effective group leaders.

Our sessions are designed to be safe, supportive, and welcoming for everyone, regardless of musical background or experience.

Speaking about our sessions, Chiltern Community Musician Jo shares: 'They are a safe, relaxed and welcoming space. A no pressure and no judgement zone where people can join in as much, or as little, as they feel comfortable.'

Being part of a community music group at Chiltern Music Therapy offers more than just musical enjoyment. Our groups foster human connection and provide significant benefits for physical, mental, and social health. Our dedicated groups provide an opportunity to engage in a regular activity that promotes well-being and enriches participants life through the power of music.

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Inclusive and Accessible Community Groups

From our "Sing to Beat Parkinson’s" group to our "Silver Singers," we have a variety of groups tailored to different needs and interests. We warmly invite you to join one of our local groups and become part of our vibrant community.

One participant reflected on their experience, saying, "Music therapy has helped me in a big way. Before I came here, I was shy, not very confident about speaking, and nervous about talking to people. But because of music therapy, I feel a lot more confident, a lot more trusting of people, and I feel happier about myself."

Community Music vs. Group Music Therapy Sessions

Community music sessions focus on creating a shared musical experience where participants can enjoy making music together in a relaxed, inclusive environment. These sessions are open to everyone, regardless of musical ability or experience, and promote social interaction, community building, and general well-being through the joy of music-making. They are led by skilled community musicians who facilitate the sessions, ensuring everyone feels included and valued.

In contrast, group music therapy sessions use music as a therapeutic tool to address specific physical, emotional, cognitive, or social needs of participants in an individualised way. These sessions are typically designed for individuals with specific therapeutic goals and provide targeted therapeutic outcomes, such as enhancing motor skills, or providing emotional support. Music therapy sessions are led by qualified Music Therapists who use structured interventions to achieve these therapeutic goals.

Both types of sessions harness the power of music to enhance well-being but do so in different ways tailored to the needs and goals of the participants.

Join a Group

Discover the joy and benefits of community music-making with Chiltern Music Therapy. Contact us today to find out more about our groups and how you can get involved.

Our Groups at a Glance

Sing to Beat Parkinson's, Bath

• When: Mondays, 2-3:30pm
• Where: Southdown Methodist Centre, The Hollow, Bath, BA2 1NJ
• Description: For individuals living with Parkinson’s, this group uses music and singing to support voice and movement difficulties, and to lift your mood. No musical experience necessary.
• Contact: Call 01442 780541 or send an enquiry.

Jamming Group - High Wycombe

• When: Thursdays, 2-4pm
• Where: Wycombe Arts Centre, Desborough Road, HP11 2PU
• Description: Open to all, this NHS community group is for those accessing or who have accessed mental health services. Sessions include playing instruments, conversation, listening to music and songwriting. No musical experience required.
• Contact: Call 01442 780541 or send an enquiry.

Jamming Group - Aylesbury

• When: Wednesdays, 10am-12pm
• Where: Multicultural Centre, Friarscroft Way, HP20 2SQ
• Description: Open to all, this NHS community group is for those accessing or who have accessed mental health services. Sessions include playing instruments, conversation, listening to music and songwriting. No musical experience required.
• Contact: Call 01442 780541 or send an enquiry

Ashby and Measham Dementia Singing Group

• When: Tuesdays, 2-3pm
• Where: St Laurence Church Hall, Measham, DE12 7HZ
• Description: This lively weekly singing group is for older adults, including those with Alzheimer’s or dementia. It aims to connect people through music and improve the lives of those who are socially isolated. No musical experience needed.
• Contact: Call 01442 780541 or send an enquiry.

Let’s Sing - online

• When: Fortnightly on Wednesdays, 7-8pm (Online)
• Description: A community choir for those with learning disabilities, autism, or additional needs. It offers a chance to sing together, build social skills, and enjoy social interaction.
• Contact: Call 01442 780541 or send an enquiry.

Chesham Silver Singers

• When: Mondays, 11am-12pm
• Where: The Elgiva Theatre, St Mary's Way, HP5 1HR
• Description: A lively weekly singing group for older adults, including those with Alzheimer’s or dementia. It aims to connect people through music and improve the lives of those who are socially isolated. No musical experience needed.
• Contact: Call 01442 780541 or send an enquiry.

Aylesbury Silver Singers

• When: Wednesdays, 1-2pm (Tea from 12:30pm)
• Where: Church of the Good Shepherd, Church Square, HP21 8NH
• Description: A lively weekly singing group for older adults, including those with Alzheimer’s or dementia. It aims to connect people through music and improve the lives of those who are socially isolated. No musical experience needed.
• Contact: Call 01442 780541 or send an enquiry.

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