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Seniors spring into tune with keyboard classes in Vernon

Benefits of music extend beyond the notes
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Learning to play the keyboard has been a joyous experience for Janet Kirkpatrick at the Vernon Arts Centre. (Contributed)

Local residents interested in tuning up their musical talents can take advantage of the return of keyboard classes.

Following COVID-19 cancellations, Melly Oey is bringing classes back to the Vernon Arts Centre, starting April 5 for 10 weeks (with multiple day/time options)

“Music has great health benefits for seniors,” instructor Oey said, after seeing first-hand how it has helped her students.

In fact, according to Johns Hopkins, “music can be considered medicine for your mind,” as stated in an article from thevault.musicarts.com.

“There are many benefits associated with music from improved memory to stress relief, motivation and even decreased pain from chronic illness,” the article reads.

Students Vickie West and Janet Kirkpatrick agree.

Not only have they found a new love and appreciation for music and marvelled at their improvements and abilities, but they’ve found friendship among each other and Oey.

Oey takes great pride in her students, and seeing how far they’ve come in reading and playing notes. She even has a scrapbook of all her students, playing in the studio above the arts centre, as well as during rehearsals and special events.

For more information, call 250-542-6243, visit vernonarts.ca or email m.oey@telus.net.

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Learning to play the keyboard has been a joyous experience for Vickie West at the Vernon Arts Centre. (Contributed)


Jennifer Smith

About the Author: Jennifer Smith

Vernon has always been my home, and I've been working at The Morning Star since 2004.
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