Orchard Village always seeks creative ways to support the people it serves, and this year, the powerful role of music therapy takes center stage. Sharon Lord, Training Coordinator, whose passion for music has been lifelong leads this new program. She learned piano at just seven, picked up guitar a year later, and eventually learned the flute, viola, and several other instruments. Her talent and dedication led her to DePaul University, where she studied music therapy. After a 25-year career as a music therapist, Sharon began working at Orchard Village as a Qualified Intellectual Disabilities Professional (QIDP) before moving into her current role as Training Coordinator. Recently, she began facilitating music therapy lessons for Orchard Village DiscOVer participants.
The sessions began this June and now happen twice a month. Seventeen to 22 individuals participate in the carefully structured program. Sessions always start and end in the same way, which provides a sense of routine. At the beginning and end of each session, participants sing name games a cappella or with tambourines. Sessions sometimes focus on a theme ranging from “Grease,” Independence Day, or the arrival of autumn and help make each lesson unique and memorable. The group even practices conducting, using a simple exercise to take turns “leading” different sections of the room. Conducting strengthens socialization and collaboration skills.
The music therapy program is very inclusive. Everyone can participate in some way, even participants who are nonverbal. Simple instruments like kazoos enable everyone to join in. These musical moments foster a sense of belonging, as participants learn to work together, follow directions, and socialize in a supportive, fun environment.
“Some people think music therapy is just fun and games,” Sharon shares, “but it’s so much more. The goals can include socialization, turn-taking, following directions, working as a group, and more.”
In some cases, participants have movement goals, which the therapy supports through instrument play, helping them work on fine motor skills in an enjoyable way. Nadine, one of the participants, has even taken to the viola, showing an intuitive understanding of rhythm and sound.
The program will continue to grow, with plans to introduce additional instruments like the banjo, ukulele, and electric piano, along with more music appreciation lessons and a new “Song of the Week” activity. Each session is an opportunity to build connections and create moments of joy and learning through the universal language of music.
If you are interested in learning more about our Community Day Services, please contact Nancy Palella at Nancy_pallella@orchardvillage.org or (847) 967-1800 ext. 307.