Music for People Living with Dementia & Their Care Partners
Experience the Power of Music Together
At MacPhail Center for Music, our dementia-friendly programs create welcoming spaces where people living with dementia and their care partners can connect through music. Whether you enjoy singing familiar songs, making music together, exploring rhythm, or performing with a choir, each program is designed to support well-being, social connection, creativity, and joy.
No musical experience is required—everyone is welcome.
Financial assistance is available. If tuition is a barrier, we encourage you to apply. Learn More.
Not sure which program is right for you?
Our team is happy to help. Contact MacPhail Music for Lifeâ„¢ Director Kristyn Rupp at 612.767.5345 or via email.
Find the Right Program
Music Circle
Interactive music-making and creative exploration
Music Circle invites participants to engage in singing, movement, playing rhythm instruments, listening, storytelling, and creative expression. Each week explores a new theme that encourages conversation, reminiscence, and shared discovery.
Best for:
- People who enjoy a variety of musical activities Â
- Care partners who want to participate together Â
- Anyone looking for a relaxed, engaging weekly experienceÂ
Rhythm Circle
Connect through the joy of rhythmÂ
Explore drumming and rhythm activities that promote self-expression, cognitive engagement, relaxation, and meaningful connection. Guided by an experienced teaching artist, Rhythm Circle offers an energetic and welcoming environment for those who are comfortable with a higher noise level.
Best for:
- Participants who enjoy movement and rhythm Â
- Building confidence through accessible music-making Â
- Shared participation with care partnersÂ
Songs & Stories
Sing, remember, and shareÂ
Each week centers around familiar songs from a specific artist, decade, or musical theme. Together, participants sing favorite songs, learn about the music’s history, and share the memories and stories it inspires.
Best for:
- People who enjoy singing Â
- Sharing personal memories Â
- Conversation and communityÂ
Connecting Voices Chorus
A choir created specifically for people living with dementiaÂ
Connecting Voices is a welcoming chorus where participants and care partners rehearse and perform together. Through singing, members build friendships, confidence, and community while experiencing the joy of making music as an ensemble.Â
Course Offerings
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Music Circle (Dementia-Friendly) – Apple Valley
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Music Circle (Dementia-Friendly) – Chanhassen
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Music Circle (Dementia-Friendly) – Minneapolis
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Rhythm Circle (Dementia-Friendly) – Apple Valley
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Rhythm Circle (Dementia-Friendly) – Chanhassen
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Rhythm Circle (Dementia-Friendly) – Minneapolis
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Songs and Stories (Dementia-Friendly) – Apple Valley
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Songs and Stories (Dementia-Friendly) – Minneapolis
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Connecting Voices Chorus – FALL Semester
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