The documentary, filmed in Toronto, follows people living with dementia and Grammy Award-winning musician, Simon Law, as they write and compose a song about the meaning of music in their lives. Funded by the Alzheimer Society of Canada, the film is based on research conducted by Drs. Christine Jonas-Simpson, Sherry Dupuis, Pia Kontos and Gail Mitchell.

The project takes place at the Dotsa Bitove Wellness Academy, an arts-based academy of teaching-learning, where music is a medium for relationships, engagement and life enrichment, and where everyone is considered a teacher and a learner.

“To me, music is the greatest equalizer” one of the Academy Members says.  Robin Gertin, Academy Artist adds “We have seen people come in shy, hesitant, and come and regain their sense of self.”

This film is filled with laughter, tears, joy, dancing and singing as members of the Bitove Academy community, along with Simon Law, openly share their experiences with music and dementia.

To learn more about the film, you can visit Music Is Life, or watch the film on their YouTube page.

For information about campaigns and projects regarding music and dementia in the UK, visit Music for Dementia.