Julie Gardner
Music & Memories
Familiar songs. Shared stories.
A sense of connection.
I bring Music & Memories to aged care homes across Perth, Western Australia. It’s about more than singing familiar songs.
It’s about creating a warm, relaxed space where residents can feel part of something — where their stories are welcomed, their memories matter, and they can enjoy meaningful time with the people around them.
What happens when I visit?
I work closely with care teams to choose familiar music around a theme and use the songs as a gentle starting point for conversation, memories and connection.
Every session is a little different because every group is different.
A song might lead to singing together, a story about a first dance, a memory of home, a shared laugh, or simply a quiet moment of recognition.
Residents can join in however feels right for them — singing, reminiscing, listening, chatting or simply enjoying being there.
Staff and families are always welcome to join us too.
There’s no pressure to participate and no right or wrong way to join in.
What matters is that residents have the opportunity to feel included, heard and valued and to share moments of genuine connection with others.
Your sessions are beautifully tailored to the residents, and they respond well to your warmth and engaging nature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do you offer Music & Memories sessions?
I visit aged care homes across Perth, Western Australia. I also share Music & Memories sessions at libraries, Independent Living Communities, Seniors Week events and Community Groups.
What music do you play?
My repertoire spans decades of much-loved music, featuring songs made famous by artists such as Elvis Presley, Dolly Parton, The Beatles, Jim Reeves, The Rolling Stones, Leonard Cohen, Neil Diamond, John Denver, ABBA, Tom Jones, Elton John, Doris Day and The Seekers, to name just a few!
From timeless classics to familiar sing-along favourites, there's a little something for everyone.
What makes your music sessions different?
Music & Memories is about so much more than simply singing songs!
Each session is thoughtfully planned to bring together familiar music, treasured memories and meaningful moments of connection.
Through much-loved songs, gentle reminiscence, storytelling and plenty of opportunities to sing along, residents are encouraged to participate in whatever way feels comfortable for them.
It's about creating a warm, engaging experience where music brings back memories, sparks conversations, raises smiles and brings people together.
How long does a Music & Memories session go for?
Each Music & Memories session runs for one hour, filled with familiar songs, sing-alongs, gentle reminiscence and plenty of opportunities to share special memories.
I allow additional time before each session to ensure everything is ready for a relaxed, welcoming and enjoyable experience for your residents.
Do you work with people living with dementia?
Absolutely! I have a series of Music & Memories sessions that have been thoughtfully created with the unique needs of people living with dementia in mind.
I believe in meeting residents where they are on any given day, creating a relaxed, calming welcoming environment where everyone can participate in their own way.
It's a privilege to visit some Memory Support Units monthly, building familiar connections and carrying the stories shared and music preferences into future sessions.
Through much-loved songs, gentle reminiscence and meaningful moments of connection, my aim is to help every resident feel valued, connected and a sense of belonging, while sharing the joy that music can bring.
Thank you for the time, kindness, and genuine care you bring to each session. The way you connect with our Memory Support Unit residents, brighten their day, and treat them with the respect and dignity they deserve truly makes a difference. I'm sure your visits mean more to them than you realise.
Music & Memories for your community
If you’d like to bring Music & Memories to your residents, I’d love to hear from you.
For session availability, bookings or questions, please feel free to get in touch.
Enquire about a session