A concert to benefit the Alzheimer’s Foundation will take place Saturday, October 20, 7 p.m. at The Congregational Church in 21 Front Street, Exeter, NH.

The program of music featuring piano, vocalists, woodwind, guitar, and stand-up bass, will be presented by the Forget-Me-Knots.  They are a group of musicians who decided to come together to share their love of music in support of Alzheimer’s. Vocalist Jean Strazdes has performed throughout the world in various operas and currently teaches at Phillips Exeter Academy.  Mary Carol Kennedy is a clinical social worker as well as a woodwind player.  She teaches and performs locally in southern Maine.   Kim Karchenes, pianist, is the Music Director at The Congregational Church in Exeter and the accompanist for several local community choruses.  Bob Daigle is a self-employed environmental consultant.  His true passion is music, which he celebrates through guitar, stand-up bass and voice.

The concert will be a celebration of “memories” through several musical moments   There are many ongoing studies researching the effects of music on the brains of patients struggling with this disease.   Studies have shown that music may provide an opportunity to connect with a patient even when verbal communication has become difficult.

 The Forget-Me-Knots have each been touched by Alzheimer’s and will donate all proceeds collected at the door to The Alzheimer’s Foundation. All donations will be gratefully received. Please come and enjoy a wonderful evening of music in support of this worthy cause.   For more information please contact Kim Karchenes at kkarchenes [at] maine [dot] rr [dot] com.

Visit  https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/daily-care/art-music  to learn more about how music may help with caregiving, the warning signs, the importance of early detection and diagnosis as well as information on care and support.