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The IMNF's June 2008 newsletter is now available online. Please click here to download. You may also click here to view our "2007 Highlights" booklet and read our patients' inspiring success stories. To learn how your tax-deductible donation can help the IMNF serve those who are neurologically impaired, please click here.
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Institute for Music and Neurologic Function Partners with Carnegie Hall’s Weill Music Institute to Offer Groundbreaking Musical ExperiencesCollaboration Brings World Renowned Talent and the Therapeutic Power of Live Music to Beth Abraham Family of Health ServicesBRONX, NY, January 20, 2010 – The world-renowned music therapy pioneers of the Institute for Music and Neurologic Function (IMNF) and the gifted musicians of the Weill Music Institute at Carnegie Hall have joined forces to bring the restorative power of live music to the Beth Abraham community. The Musical Connections program consists of a dedicated cadre of Carnegie Hall’s top musical talent and brings diverse musical experiences to people who might otherwise be physically or medically excluded from the joy and benefits of musical interaction. Launched as part of its 2009-2010 season, Musical Connections, a new Weill Music Institute program, aims to engage, connect, and involve audiences with limited access to live music through quality musical programming. A roster of first class musicians and ensembles bring diverse musical experiences to residents of New York City hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, senior centers, shelters and correctional facilities. Their skills and community engagement are deepened through a professional development program that has included a presentationabout the groundbreaking therapeutic music experience and research at IMNF. “Musical Connections offers active, musical experience that engage people in a creative way and lets them participate in the music making process,” explains IMNF Co-Founder and Executive Director Concetta Tomaino, D.A., MT-BC, LCAT. “The connection between Carnegie Hall and IMNF is truly a collaboration of art and science.” Dr. Tomaino notes that an additional benefit of the program is the enhanced professional development opportunities for staff at facilities and venues that the Musical Connections troupe visits. “While the performers may have minimalexperience working with individuals with very specific healthcare challenges, this program offers a chance for them to become sensitized to the medical problems and cognitive challenges of people with various conditions and disabilities, whether they are brought on by stroke or trauma or as a result of diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.” As part of the Musical Connections program, Falu and her Indian classical ensemble will perform for and with registrants at the Margaret Tietz Adult Day Health Care Program in Queens for their celebration of India’s Republic Day on Tuesday, January 26 at 10:00a.m. The IMNF and the Margaret Tietz Adult Day Health Care Program are all members of the Beth Abraham Family of Health Services. For additional information, please visit www.imnf.org or call 718-519-5840. About the IMNF: The Institute actively collaborates with researchers and practitioners at other leading organizations to advance world progress in understanding and applying the power of music to promote healing and wellness. Some of the Institute’s most promising research has been in the areas of music and language, memory, and recovery from nerve injury – leading to groundbreaking discoveries as to how music therapy can heal. About the Weill Music Institute at Carnegie Hall For more information, please visit: carnegiehall.org/exploreandlearn. |
Latin Jazz Legend Candido Camero Kicks-Off December 2nd Concert for the Institute for Music and Neurologic Function - Event Will Be Held at the Conservatory of Music at Purchase College, SUNYConga Virtuoso is Joined by Percussionist Bobby Sanabria, Composer David Amram and Reggae/Hip Hop Fusion band Shem’s Disciples
BRONX, NY, November 11, 2009 – Conga legend Candido Camero, renowned jazz instrumentalist and composer David Amram, and multi-Grammy nominated percussionist Bobby Sanabria will perform a special concert on December 2nd for the Institute for Music and Neurologic Function (IMNF) Music Therapy program. The concert begins at 7:00 PM at the Conservatory of Music at Purchase College SUNY, and also features New York-based reggae/hip-hop band Shem's Disciples. The concert is part of a broader collaboration between the IMNF and Purchase College, SUNY. This collaboration will provide opportunities for Purchase College, SUNY students to work directly with IMNF music therapists at Schnurmacher Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing in White Plains, NY to advance their knowledge of the relationship between music and the brain (and the emotional connection that music elicits in the brain). Tickets for the concert are priced at $50 and may be purchased through the IMNF by calling 718-519-5840 or e-mailing imnf@bethabe.org. Admission is free to students and faculty at Purchase College with a valid College ID. A member of the Beth Abraham Family of Health Services, the IMNF’s groundbreaking and internationally recognized programs use music therapy to assist in the “awakening and healing” of individuals with a wide-range of neurological conditions including strokes, trauma, dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s diseases. About the Artists David Amram has composed more than 100 orchestral and chamber music works, along with numerous scores for the Broadway theater, films and operas. An inventive and funny improvisational lyricist, Amram is also a pioneer of the jazz French horn and a piano virtuoso and a master numerous flutes and whistles, percussion, and folkloric instruments. Bobby Sanabria is a multi-Grammy nominee and a leader in the Afro-Cuban and jazz fields as both drummer and percussionist. Bronx born and raised, Sanabria served as Chair of the International Association for Jazz Education’s Afro-Cuban Jazz Resource Team, and is an Associate Professor at the New School University and Professor at Manhattan School of Music. Shem's Disciples is a New York-based reggae/hip-hop band, led by Marlon Sobol. Using the power of song, Shem's Disciples performs and creates music that immerses audiences in rhythm, encourages them celebrate in dance and, in the words of Sobol, “dwell in thought, and shout from the soul.” About the IMNF: The Institute actively collaborates with researchers and practitioners at other leading organizations to advance world progress in understanding and applying the power of music to promote healing and wellness. Some of the Institute’s most promising research and groundbreaking discoveries are in the areas of music and language, memory, and recovery from nerve injury. About Schnurmacher Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing: About the Conservatory of Music at Purchase College, SUNY: Programs in the Conservatory of Music are designed to guide students toward musical mastery and launch them on the path to rewarding professional careers. With an enrollment of approximately 450 undergraduate and graduate students, the Conservatory offers small classes and close interaction with a stellar faculty of professional musicians, composers, and producers. Music students also have numerous opportunities to perform and have their work presented in a range of venues on campus, in the local community, and in New York City. |
Institute for Music and Neurologic Function Conducts “Emotion, Music and the Brain” Symposium at Purchase College, SUNYLeading Neuroscience, Neurology and Music Therapy Experts Explore the Rehabilitative Relationships Between Music, Therapy and “the Emotional Brain”BRONX, NY, November 11, 2009 -- Tapping into the creative connections between music and healing, the Institute for Music and Neurologic Function (IMNF) and the Conservatory of Music at Purchase College, SUNY, known for offering the State University system’s most prestigious performing arts curriculum, will present a symposium on December 2, 2009 to explore music and the brain. The symposium features such renowned experts in the fields of neuroscience, neurology and music therapy, such as keynote speaker Joseph LeDoux, Ph.D., Professor of Neural Science and Psychology, NYU Center for Neural Science; Concetta Tomaino, DA, MT-BC, LCAT, Executive Director of the IMNF; Steven A. Sparr, M.D., Professor of Clinical Neurology, The Saul R. Korey Department of Neurology (and IMNF Research Advisory Board Member); Tina Brescia,DA, MT-BC, and Lisa Sandagata, MT-BC, of the Music Therapy Institute at the Westchester Conservatory of Music. “We are pleased to collaborate with Purchase College, SUNY and to create opportunities for their students to engage with our music therapists to assist in improving the overall health and well-being of our patients,” said Executive Director of the IMNF Concetta Tomaino D.A., MT-BC, LCAT. “We are looking forward to the symposium, as it will provide an ideal forum to increase awareness of the relationship between music and the brain as well as the important role that music therapy plays in the lives of people with neurological conditions.” Dr. Robert Thompson, Dean of Music at Purchase, said, “This symposium is the first of its kind on our campus, and offers students in music and psychology and opportunity to collaborate and explore this rapidly developing field of study.” Attendees -- from neuroscientists, physicians, music therapists and rehabilitation therapists to anyone interested in the effects of music on the brain -- will learn current theories and best practices for applying this knowledge to music therapy with adults and special needs children. The noon – 7:00 PM symposium will take place at the Purchase College SUNY, Conservatory of Music’s Recital Hall, and will be capped by an evening concert kicked-off by legendary Latin Jazz and conga virtuoso Candido Camero, Grammy nominated percussionist Bobby Sanabria and noted composer David Amram. A member of the Beth Abraham Family of Health Services, the IMNF’s groundbreaking and internationally recognized programs use music therapy to assist in the “awakening and healing” of individuals with a wide-range of neurological conditions including strokes, trauma, dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s diseases. Tickets to the symposium are priced at $100 and include dinner. The post-conference concert, which takes place from 7:00PM-9:00PM, is priced at $50. A price of $140 includes tickets to both the symposium and concert. Admission is free to students and faculty at Purchase College with a valid College ID. All proceeds from the event will benefit the IMNF. Tickets can be purchased by calling 718-519-5840 or e-mailing imnf@bethabe.org About the IMNF: The Instituteactively collaborates with researchers and practitioners at other leading organizations to advance world progress in understanding and applying the power of music to promote healing and wellness. Some of the Institute’s most promising research has been in the areas of music and language, memory, and recovery from nerve injury – leading to groundbreaking discoveries as tohow music therapy can heal. About the Conservatory of Music at Purchase College, SUNY: Programs in the Conservatory of Music are designed to guide students toward musical mastery and launch them on the path to rewarding professional careers. With an enrollment of approximately 450 undergraduate and graduate students, the Conservatory offers small classes and close interaction with a stellar faculty of professional musicians, composers, and producers. Music students also have numerous opportunities to perform and have their work presented in a range of venues on campus, in the local community, and in New York City. |
Four-Time Grammy Award Winning Musician Michael Feinstein Headlines the IMNF 2009 Music Has Power Awards Benefit At Feinstein’s at Loews RegencyInstitute for Music and Neurologic Function Honors Long-Time Supporter Peggy Rice and Scientific Advisory Board Member and Senior Fellow in Theoretical Neurobiology Aniruddh Patel, Ph.D. for their Contributions to Music and HealingAugust 25, 2009 (New York, NY) – The healing power of music and the helping power of musicians will come together on September 9th when acclaimed four-time Grammy®Award winning musician Michael Feinstein headlines the 9th Annual Music Has PowerTM Awards benefit, with two-time Tony-Award® winning actress and singer Christine Ebersole, at Feinstein’s at Loews Regency – The Nightclub of New York. Widely recognized as one of the most beloved interpreters of American popular songs, Michael Feinstein has dedicated his career to reviving and promoting the works of legendary singers and songwriters, including Cole Porter, Irving Berlin, and Frank Sinatra. The Music Has Power Awards are presented annually by the Institute for Music and Neurologic Function (IMNF), to honor those individuals in the arts, sciences and business communities whose work contributes to the advancement of vital, often groundbreaking music therapy research, development and programs. Honored for their contributions to the therapeutic power of music are New York native and long-time IMNF supporter, Peggy Rice, and IMNF Scientific Advisory Board member and The Neurosciences Institute Esther J. Burnham Senior Fellow, Dr. Aniruddh Patel. “We are proud to honor Peggy Rice and Dr. Aniruddh Patel for their continuous guidance and support of our efforts to bring attention to the powerful role that music plays in improving overall physical, emotional and neurological health and well being,” states IMNF Executive Director Dr. Concetta Tomaino. “The Music Has Power Awards fundraising benefit gives us the opportunity to thank the people who have been instrumental in our current success and continue to stand by us in our future endeavors to explore the efficacy of music to enhance the lives of people suffering from neurological disorders, like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.” A member of the Beth Abraham Family of Health Services, the IMNF’s groundbreaking and internationally recognized programs use music therapy to assist in the “awakening and healing” of individuals with a wide-range of neurological conditions including strokes, trauma, dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s diseases. The 2009 Music Has Power Awards event will begin at 6p.m. The event is sponsored by The Bank of New York Mellon Wealth Management with additional support from Ketel One Vodka and Feinstein’s at Loews Regency. Funds raised will support music therapy programs, along with clinical and scientific research. Previous recipients include Dr. Oliver Sacks, Mickey Hart, Remo Belli, moby, and Henry Z. Steinway. For tickets or sponsorship information please contact: (718) 519-5880, fax (718) 519-4240 or e-mail imnf@bethabe.org About the IMNF: The Institute actively collaborates with researchers and practitioners at other leading organizations to advance world progress in understanding and applying the power of music to promote healing and wellness. Some of the Institute’s most promising research has been in the areas of music and language, memory, and recovery from nerve injury – leading to groundbreaking discoveries as to how music therapy can heal. |
Kid Rock to Headline Special Benefit Concert for the Institute for Music and Neurologic Function September 2, 2009Rare Club Appearance to be Held at Terminal 5 in New York CityAugust 3, 2009 (New York, NY) - The Institute for Music and Neurologic Function (IMNF), a leader in innovative music therapy treatments and research, is pleased to announce a special Music Has Power™ Benefit Concert on September 2, 2009 at New York City’s Terminal 5. Kid Rock will headline the event. The Bronx-based Institute for Music and Neurologic Function, a member of the Beth Abraham Family of Health Services, is a nonprofit, 501 (c) (3) agency founded on the idea that music has unique powers to heal, rehabilitate, and inspire -- and that we can use music therapy to restore and improve our physical, emotional, and neurological health. The Institute is dedicated to advancing scientific inquiry on music and the brain and to developing clinical treatments to benefit people of all ages and was founded with the help of renowned neurologist Dr. Oliver Sacks. Past Music Has Power events have featured appearances and performances by Beastie Boys, Chris Martin, Gwyneth Paltrow, Dustin Hoffman, Moby, Rob Thomas, the B-52's, Kris Kristofferson, Rufus Wainright, Bruce Hornsby, Vanessa Carlton and many others. Ticket information is as follows: American Express Presale Wednesday, August 5th at 10AM through Friday, August 7th at 10PM. Tickets for the American Express presale available by phone 800.745.3000 or at ticketmaster.com. Tickets available to the general public on Saturday, August 8th at 12PM via Ticketmaster All tickets for this event will be $100. Terminal 5 is located at 610 West 56th Street, NYC 10019. |
Beth Abraham Health Services Hosts Mary Ellen Geist for Book Signing to Benefit Music Therapy ProgramsAuthor and Former CBS Radio Anchor Presented Her Poignant and Powerful Book About Her Father’s Alzheimers Affliction at Book Signing November 18thBronx, NY, November 26, 2008 – Award winning journalist, author and popular former CBS News Radio Anchor Mary Ellen Geist offered personal insights into the impact of Alzheimer’s disease at a well-attended reading and book signing benefit for the Beth Abraham Family of Health Services’ music therapy program. Geist is the author of the inspiring new book Measure of the Heart – A Father’s Alzheimer’s, A Daughter’s Return – which chronicles the constant challenges Ms. Geist encountered from the time she learned her father was diagnosed with the degenerative neurological disease. It was her father’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis that impelled Geist to leave New York and her successful career at CBS Radio and return home to Michigan to spend more time with him and to help her mother with his care. It was in the course of that care and assistance that she began using music therapy techniques to extend and enhance the quality cognitive time he had left and to “keep him in this world.” Beginning as a journal of her experiences dealing with the disease and its impact on her family, Measure of the Heart – A Father’s Alzheimers, A Daughter’s Return has been hailed as, “a compelling, respectful—and somehow reassuring—book for every caregiving family that must look Alzheimer’s, or any serious illness, in the face.” It also offers up compelling evidence of the power that music has to reconnect with a loved one whose Alzheimer’s is too advanced for other therapies. Geist’s appearance at Beth Abraham’s Bronx, NY facility was due in large part to the organization’s groundbreaking work employing music therapy to reach, maintain attention and memory function and generally improve the quality of life for people with Alzheimer’s Disease. Operating under the direction of renowned music therapist Dr. Concetta M. Tomaino and the auspices of the Institute for Music and Neurologic Function (IMNF), Beth Abraham’s music therapy programs are tailored to individual needs to maximize therapeutic benefit. These include small group and individual music therapy sessions, as well as large therapeutic music programs including drum circles. Additionally, the IMNF has completed work on a two-year grant from the New York State Department of Health to develop and teach therapeutic rhythmic programs for nursing homes around the state. The program has culminated in the creation of a DVD and accompanying handbook entitled Rhythmic Activities for Everyday Care, which is now available to the public for $10 (plus $5 shipping and handling). The DVD and accompanying booklet can help caregivers observe, develop and lead rhythmic activities that can engage and soothe their loved ones with Alzheimer’s and other dementias and tap into the potential for communication that they still have. Unsigned copies of Mary Ellen Geist’s book Measure of the Heart – A Father’s Alzheimers, A Daughter’s Return are still available from Beth Abraham for a donation of $20 or more (plus $5 shipping and handling) by calling (718) 519-5880. Funds raised will be used to continue funding music therapy programs and support research initiatives of the IMNF, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) agency. |
Beth Abraham Health Services Hosts Mary Ellen Geist for Book Signing to Benefit Music Therapy ProgramsAuthor and Former CBS Radio Anchor Will Present Her Poignant and Powerful Book About Her Father’s Alzheimers Affliction and How Music Helped “To Keep Him In This World”BRONX, NY, November 7, 2008 – Mary Ellen Geist -- the ever popular former news anchor at CBS Radio and author of Measure of the Heart – A Father’s Alzheimer’s, A Daughter’s Return – comes to Beth Abraham Health Services on Tuesday, November 18th to sign copies of this highly acclaimed and inspiring new book. Measure of the Heart chronicles the constant challenges Ms. Geist encountered from the time she learned her father was diagnosed with the degenerative neurological disease. Indeed, it was the Alzheimer’s diagnosis that impelled Geist to leave New York and her successful career at CBS Radio and return home to Michigan to spend more time with her father and to help her mother with his care. It was in the course of that care and assistance that she began using music therapy techniques to extend and enhance the quality cognitive time he had left and to “keep him in this world.” Beginning as a journal of her experiences dealing with the disease and its impact on her family, Measure of the Heart – A Father’s Alzheimers, A Daughter’s Return has been hailed as, “a compelling, respectful—and somehow reassuring—book for every caregiving family that must look Alzheimer’s, or any serious illness, in the face.” It also offers up compelling evidence of the power that music has to reconnect with a loved one whose Alzheimer’s is too advanced for other therapies. Open to the public, the book signing will take place Tuesday, November 18, 2008 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the Beth Abraham flagship facility located at 612 Allerton Avenue in the Bronx. For a donation of $20 or more, attendees will receive a copy of Measure of the Heart – A Father’s Alzheimers, A Daughter’s Return to be signed by Mary Ellen Geist at the event. Funds raised will be used to continue funding music therapy programs and support research initiatives of the Institute for Music and Neurologic Function (IMNF) at Beth Abraham, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) agency. The IMNF’s groundbreaking and internationally recognized programs use music therapy to assist in the “awakening and healing” of individuals with a wide-range of neurological conditions including strokes, trauma, dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s diseases. Plans are also underway to expand the IMNF’s work in music therapy to childhood developmental conditions including autism. The IMNF encourages the public to reserve up to five copies of Measure of the Heart – A Father’s Alzheimers, A Daughter’s Return now so that they will be available for signing by Mary Ellen Geist on November 18th. Please call or e-mail (718) 519-5880 or imnf@bethabe.org for further information. |
Music and Dance Legends Lend Talent to Raise Awareness and Funds for Music Therapy Programs and Research InitiativesMusic Icon Odetta and Broadway Star Geoffrey Holder Help Raise More Than $120,000 at the 2008 Music Has Power Awards benefiting the Institute for Music and Neurologic Function.NEW YORK, NY, October 9, 2008 – Nearly a hundred people gathered at Feinstein’s at Loews Regency – The Nightclub of New York for an unforgettable evening of music and dance benefiting the Institute for Music and Neurologic Function (IMNF). Guests at this year’s Music Has Power Awards enjoyed intimate performances by multi GrammyÒ nominated singer/songwriter Odetta and Tony Award®-winner and acclaimed dancer Geoffrey Holder. The event, honoring Holder and esteemed neurologist Gottfried Schlaug, MD, PhD, helped raise more than $120,000 to support funding for patient care, education and training in music therapy and scientific research initiatives of the IMNF. “We thank Odetta and our honorees, Mr. Holder and Dr. Schlaug, for sharing their time and talents to help raise awareness about the power of music to awaken, inspire, and heal,” states IMNF Executive Director, Dr. Concetta Tomaino, “This year’s Music Has Power Awards Benefit has proved to be another resounding success – we are also grateful to our many supporters for their commitment to helping bring the healing power of music toindividuals in need.” A member of the Beth Abraham Family of Health Services, the IMNF’s groundbreaking and internationally recognized programs use music therapy to assist in the “awakening and healing” of individuals with a wide-range of neurological conditions including strokes, trauma, dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s diseases. For the past eight years, The Music Has Power Awards has served as an opportunity to celebrate the visionary spirit and pioneering mission of the IMNF while honoring those individuals whose work contributes to the advancement of vital, often groundbreaking music therapy research, development and programs. The 2008 Music Has Power Awards was sponsored by The BNY Mellon Wealth Management with additional support from Feinstein’s at Loews Regency, Steinway and Sons, and Ketel One. Previous recipients of the Music Has Power Awards include Dr. Oliver Sacks, Mickey Hart, Remo Belli, moby, and Henry Z. Steinway. About the Institute for Music and Neurologic Function (IMNF) The Institute actively collaborates with researchers and practitioners at other leading organizations to advance world progress in understanding and applying the power of music to promote healing and wellness. Some of theInstitute’s most promising research has been in the areas of music and language, memory, and recovery from nerve injury – leading to groundbreaking discoveries as to how music therapy can heal. For more information about The Institute for Music and Neurologic Function, visit us at www.imnf.org. About Beth Abraham Family of Health Services About Feinstein’s at Loews Regency |
Legendary Singer/Songwriter Odetta Headlines the IMNF 2008 Music Has Power Awards Benefit at Feinstein’s at Loews RegencyInstitute for Music and Neurologic FunctionHonors Film and Broadway Star Geoffrey Holder and RenownedNeurologist Gottfried Schlaug, M.D., Ph.D.
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Octogenarian Martha Flowers Shakes Things Up at Concert Celebrating a Groundbreaking New Music Therapy Program in White Plains
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April 4, 2008 (White Plains, NY) – Beth Abraham Family of Health Services invites the community to an Inaugural Concert announcing the Institute for Music and Neurologic Function (IMNF) at Schnurmacher Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing on Wednesday, May 7, 2008 at The Arts Exchange. The concert, which features world-renowned Jazz great David Amram with roots reggae and hip-hop band Shem's Disciples, starts at 8:00 p.m. with reception to follow.
Through this special musical event, Schnurmacher celebrates its collaboration with the internationally recognized IMNF, a world leader in using and studying the efficacy of Music Therapy. By partnering with its network affiliate, Schnurmacher, conveniently located in the heart of White Plains, is proud to bring one of the nation’s leading music therapy providers to expand its services beyond those already available in Westchester county.
Proceeds from this event will support the expansion of music therapy services at Schnurmacher by providing funding for staff positions, additional programming, supervision and research through the IMNF.
For more information on how you can help launch this valuable program or to purchase tickets for $50.00 each, please call 914-287-7208 or email imnf@bethabe.org.
Tickets to the Beastie Boys Benefit Concert Still Available Exclusively Through the IMNF!!!VH1 and MTV Sponsor Benefit Concert
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Dr. Oliver Sacks Helps Raise Funds for Institute for Music and Neurologic FunctionBenefit Book Signing Supports Innovative Music Therapy Programs and Research Initiatives
BRONX, NY, November 5, 2007 – Dr. Oliver Sacks -- the world renowned neurologist and author who was portrayed by Robin Williams in the triple-Oscar®-nominated film Awakenings – recently returned to Beth Abraham Health Services for a benefit signing of his newest book, Musicophilia: Tales of Music and the Brain. Community members and health care professionals alike filled Beth Abraham’s auditorium on October 30 to have their books autographed by Dr. Sacks. More than 300 copies of the best seller were sold at the fund raising event, with proceeds benefiting the music therapy programs and research initiatives of the Institute for Music and Neurologic Function (IMNF) at Beth Abraham, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) agency. Beth Abraham Health Services resident, Andrew Asch, shakes hands with world-renowned neurologist and author, Dr. Oliver Sacks, after having his copy of Musicophilia: Tales of Music and the Brain signed. Since 1995, the IMNF’s groundbreaking and internationally recognized programs have used musictherapy to assist in the “awakening and healing” of individuals with a wide-range of conditions including strokes, trauma, dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s diseases. Plans are also underway to expand the IMNF’s work inmusic therapyto childhood developmental conditions including autism. “We were honored that Dr. Sacks took the time out of his hectic schedule to revisit Beth Abraham in support of our music therapy programs,” said IMNF Executive Director and Co-Founder, Concetta Tomaino, “It is our hope that the messages in his new book continue to raise awareness throughout the community about music’s profound impact on the human brain andmind.” In 1966, Dr. Sacks began working as a consulting neurologist at Beth Abraham and it was here that he first encounteredan extraordinary group of patients suffering from the devastating effects of encephalitis lethargica, nicknamed the “sleepy sickness.” In 1969, Dr. Sacks began treating the post-encephalitics with the then-experimental drug, L-dopa, which enabled many of the patients to “awaken” from their frozen states. It was this work at Beth Abraham that Dr. Sacks chronicled in his now legendary book Awakenings that became thebasis of the movie of the same name. “In 1966, there was no medication of any use for these patients,” said Dr. Sacks, “But the nurses-- who knew them well-- said that nothing released them like music.” He continued, “When I saw this myself, it blew my mind. And it still does--40 years later--the power of music to release people…is as astounding to me as the first day I saw it.” There are still a limited amount of autographed books available to the public for a donation of $25 or more. Please call or e-mail (718) 519-5880 or imnf@bethabe.org for further information. |
Dr. Oliver Sacks Returns to Beth Abraham for Benefit Book SigningWorld-renowned neurologist and author releases new book about the power of musicBRONX, NY, October 4 – Dr. Oliver Sacks -- the world renowned neurologist and author who was portrayed by Robin Williams in the triple-Oscar®-nominated film Awakenings – returns to Beth Abraham Health Services for a benefit signing of his newest book, Musicophilia: Tales of Music and the Brain. Open to the public, the book signing will take place Tuesday, October 30, 2007 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the Beth Abraham flagship facility located at 612 Allerton Avenue in the Bronx. For a donation of $25 or more, attendees will receive a copyof “Musicophilia” to be signed by Dr. Sacks at the event. Funds raised will be used to continue funding music therapy programs and support research initiatives of the Institute for Music and Neurologic Function (IMNF) atBeth Abraham, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) agency. The IMNF’s groundbreaking and internationally recognized programs use music therapy to assist in the “awakening and healing” of individuals with a wide-range of conditions including strokes, trauma, dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s diseases. Plans are also underway to expand the IMNF’s work in music therapy to childhood developmental conditions including autism. “Dr. Sacks’ compassion for and dedication to people suffering from neurological impairments continues to be an inspiration to me and those who follow in his pioneering footsteps,” states IMNF Executive Director and Co-Founder, Concetta Tomaino. “We are honored that Dr. Sacks has graciously agreed to revisit Beth Abraham to help support our work and reinforce his message that music can have a profound impact on the human brain and mind.” While Dr. Sacks was influential in the establishment of the IMNF in 1995, his working relationship with IMNF director Tomaino goes back almost thirty years. In 1966, Dr. Sacks began working as a consulting neurologist at Beth Abraham and it was here that he first encountered an extraordinary group of patients suffering from the devastating effects of encephalitis lethargica, nicknamed the “sleepy sickness.” In 1969, Dr. Sacks brought the Beth Abraham post-encephalitics together and began treating them with the then-experimental drug, L-dopa, which enabled many of the patients to “awaken”from their frozen states. It was this work that Dr. Sacks chronicled in his now legendary book Awakenings that became the basis of the movie of the same name. “Connie Tomaino came to Beth Abraham [Hospital] when I was working there with my Awakenings patients,” recalls Dr. Sacks. “She went on to become President of the American Association of Music Therapists; founded the Institute for Music and Neurologic Function at Beth Abraham, and has been my co-worker and adviser in all matters musical for more than twenty-five years.” The IMNF encourages the public to reserve up to five copies of Musicophilia: Tales of Music and the Brain now so that they will be available for signing by Dr. Sacks on Oct. 30. Please call or e-mail (718) 519-5880 or imnf@bethabe.org for further information. You can also click here to view our save the date flyer. About the Institute for Music and Neurologic Function (IMNF) The Institute actively collaborates with researchers and practitioners at other leading organizations to advance world progress in understanding and applying the power of music to promote healing and wellness. Some of the Institute’s most promising research has been in the areas of music and language, memory, and recovery from nerve injury – leading to groundbreaking discoveries as to how music therapy can heal. For more information about The Institute for Music and Neurologic Function, visit us at www.imnf.org. About Beth Abraham Family of Health Services |
Michael Feinstein Helps Raise $170,000 to Fund Innovative Music Therapy Programs for the Institute for Music and Neurologic FunctionThe 2007 Music Has Power Awards/Benefit at New York’s Regency Hotel supports patient care, scientific research, education and training in music therapy.NEW YORK, NY, September 24,2007 – New York music icon Michael Feinstein recently helped raise more than $170,000 to continue funding music therapy programs and support research initiatives of the Institute for Music and Neurologic Function (IMNF). Making his first New York appearance following his triumphalsold-out summer concert tour of Japan, Feinstein took the stageon September 10 at his ParkAvenue nightclub, Feinstein’s at Loews Regency – The Nightclub of New York, to host and headline the 2007 Music Has PowerTM Awards. Held at Loews Regency Hotel for the first time, this annual benefit event and awards ceremony celebrates the visionary spirit and pioneering mission of the IMNF to combine science and music to promote healing and wellness. According to a Proclamation issued by New York City Mayor MichaelR. Bloomberg declaring September 10, 2007 as Music Has Power Day, “Greatmusic invites us to smile, dance, and sing along – but thanks to the Institute for Music and Neurologic Function, it can also do much more…Their important work, and the generosity of those who havemadeit possible, should be music to all New Yorkers’ ears.”
A member of the Beth Abraham Family of Health Services, the IMNF’s groundbreaking and internationally recognized programs use music therapy to assist in the “awakening and healing” of individuals with a wide-range of conditions including strokes, trauma, dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s diseases. Plans are also underway to expand IMNF work in music therapy to childhood developmental conditions including autism. More than a star performer, Michael Feinstein is also a dedicated member of the Board ofDirectors of the IMNF and has donated his time and talents to making the Music Has Power event a resounding success. “I’ve learned from personal experience the extraordinary transformation that can occur with music,” says Feinstein, “I am amazed at what has been accomplished in regards to music therapy already, and even more so by the possibilities on the horizon.” Honored for their ongoing involvement, guidance and support of the IMNF are Thomas F. Roberts IV and Thomas E. Nobile, both from The Bank of New York Mellon. Thomas F. Roberts IV is a managing director and head of the New York City Private Banking Offices of BNY Mellon Wealth Management and Thomas E. Nobile, CFA, is vice president and a senior portfolio manager of BNY Mellon Wealth Management. “There are so many people who've experienced a loss of function, and the Institute for Music and Neurologic Function is giving them a chance to live full lives again,” said Nobile, “When music therapy can help give people back their lives, you have to do what you can to support it.” “We are grateful for the support and commitment to the innovative work of the Institute for Music and Neurologic Function demonstrated by our honorees Thomas F. Roberts IV and Thomas E. Nobile and for our extraordinarily talented and generous host Michael Feinstein,” states IMNF Executive Director, Dr. Concetta Tomaino. “As much as Music Has Power is a fund raising event for our programs, it is also a vital tool in raising awareness and spotlighting the value of music therapy and the effect of music on the human brain and mind.” The 2007 Music Has Power Awards were underwritten by The Bank of New York Mellon with additional support from Feinstein’s at Loews Regency, Steinway and Sons, Francis Ford Coppola Presents, and Tumbador Chocolate. The Music Has Power Awards was established seven years ago to celebrate and recognize the significant accomplishments of the men and women who have supported or have brought newunderstanding to the use of the power of music to awaken and heal. Previousrecipients of the Music Has Power Awards include Dr. Oliver Sacks, Mickey Hart, Remo Belli, moby, and Henry Z.Steinway. About the Institute for Music and Neurologic Function (IMNF) The Institute actively collaborates with researchers and practitioners at other leading organizations to advance world progress in understanding and applying the power of music to promote healing and wellness. Some of the Institute’s most promising research has been in the areas of music and language, memory, and recovery from nerve injury – leading to groundbreaking discoveries as to how music therapy can heal. For more information about The Institute for Music and Neurologic Function, visit us at www.imnf.org. About Beth Abraham Family of Health Services About Feinstein’s at Loews Regency About The Bank of New York Mellon A unit of The Bank of New York Mellon,BNY Mellon Wealth Management ranks as one of the top 10 US wealth managers with approximately $155 billion in private client assets and an expansive network of 83 offices globally. |
Music Legend Michael Feinstein Headlines the 2007 Music Has PowerTM Award Benefit at Feinstein’s at Loews RegencySeptember 10th Fete Honors Thomas F. Roberts IV and Thomas E. Nobile of The Bank of New York MellonAugust 21, 2007 (New York, NY) – The power of music to help healing joins with the power of musicians in funding that healing on September 10th when Michael Feinstein – New York’s consummate cabaret star and an iconic interpreter of American popular music – headlines the seventh annual Music Has PowerTM awards benefit at his Park Avenue nightclub, Feinstein’s at Loews Regency – The Nightclub of New York. The Music Has PowerTM benefit and awards ceremony is presented by the Institute for Musicand Neurologic Function (IMNF), a member of the Beth Abraham Family of Health Services. The IMNF’s groundbreaking and internationally recognized programs use music therapy to assist in the “awakening and healing” of individuals with a wide-range of conditions including strokes, trauma, dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s diseases. The IMNF plans to expand its work in music therapy for childhood developmental conditions including autism. The Music Has Power benefit marks Feinstein’s first appearance at the Regency following his triumphal sold-out summer concert tour of Japan. At the benefit, Feinstein will welcome benefactors, friends and fellow performers tohis intimate nightclub on East 61st for anunforgettable evening of Song. World-renowned for his commitment to performing and preserving the art and legacy of American popular song for present and future generations, Michael Feinstein is celebrated as one of the music genre’s premier practitioners. A household name for nearly two-decades – following the success of his Broadway one-man show, “Isn’t It Romantic” in 1988 - Feinstein received his fourth GRAMMY® nomination for his 2003 recording with the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra. More than a star performer, Michael Feinstein is also a dedicated member of the Board of Directors of the IMNF and has donated his time and talents to making the Music Has Power event a resounding success. The 2007 Music Has Power event begins at 6 p.m. with a cocktail reception followed by dinner, the awards presentation, and a specially planned performance by Michael Feinstein. “I’ve always believed that music has a unique way of tapping into our emotions and memories in a very profound way,” says Feinstein, “I am honored to be involved in supporting the Institute for Music and Neurologic Function in their mission toraise awareness about the power of music.” Honored for their ongoing involvement, guidance and support of the IMNF are Thomas F. Roberts IV and Thomas E. Nobile, bothfrom The Bank of New York Mellon. Thomas F. Roberts IV is a managing director and head of the New York CityPrivate Banking Offices of BNY Mellon Wealth Management and Thomas E. Nobile, CFA, is vice president and a senior portfoliomanager of BNY Mellon Wealth Management. “We are grateful for the support and commitment to the innovative work of the Institute for Music and Neurologic Function demonstrated by our honorees Thomas F. Roberts IV and Thomas E. Nobile and for our extraordinarily talented and generous host Michael Feinstein,” states IMNF Executive Director, Dr. Concetta Tomaino. “As much as Music Has Power is a fund raising event for our programs, it is also a vital tool in raising awareness and spotlighting the value of music therapy and the effect of music on the human brain and mind.” The 2007 Music Has Power Awards is sponsored by The Bank of New York Mellon with additional support from Feinstein’s at Loews Regency, Steinway and Sons, Francis Ford Coppola Presents, and Tumbador Chocolate. The Music Has Power Awards was established seven years ago to celebrate and recognize the significant accomplishments of the men and women who have supported and brought new understanding to the use of the powerof music to awaken and heal. Through this celebration, funds raised will support music therapy programs, along with clinical and scientific research. Previous recipients of the Music Has Power Awards include Dr. Oliver Sacks, Mickey Hart, Remo Belli, moby, and Henry Z. Steinway. For tickets or sponsorship information please contact: (718) 519-5880, fax (718) 519-4240 or e-mail imnf@bethabe.org. About the Institute for Music and Neurologic Function (IMNF): About Beth Abraham Family of Health Services: About Feinstein’s at Loews Regency About The Bank of New York Mellon A unit of The Bank of New York Mellon, BNY Mellon Wealth Management ranks as one of the top 10 US wealth managers with approximately $155 billion in private client assets and an expansive network of 83 offices globally. |
Institute for Music and Neurologic Function at Beth Abraham Appoints Linda Wagner as Associate Director
Bronx, New York, June 29, 2007 -- Linda Wagner, a nonprofit executive and strategic planner, has been named Associate Executive Director of the Institute for Music and Neurologic Function (IMNF), a Bronx-based member of the Beth Abraham Family of Health Services. In this newly created position, Wagner will oversee operational management, strategic planning, and fundraising for IMNF, a nonprofit music therapy organization that provides clinical services to patients suffering from neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, spinal cord injury, and more. Through research and education, the Institute is dedicated to advancing scientific inquiry on music and the brain and to developing clinical treatments to benefit people of all ages. Just prior to joining IMNF,Wagnerwas the director of media relations andpublic affairs for The Associated Press at their headquarters in , where she was responsible for strategic and crisis communications, external media relations, and corporate archives. Before joining AP, Wagner had been the seniordirector of communications for Consumer Reports and Consumers Union, the national nonprofit consumer publishing and advocacy organization based in Yonkers, New York. Her responsibilities there included strategic communications efforts for health care information projects. “Ms. Wagner’s extensive professional accomplishments, combined with her determination and dedication, will undoubtedly aide us in our mission of increasing awareness about music’s unique powers to heal, rehabilitate, and inspire,” stated Concetta M. Tomaino, D.A., MT-BC, LCAT, executive director/co-founder of the IMNF and senior vice president of music therapy services at Beth Abraham Family of Health Services, “We are delighted to welcome her to the IMNF team and the Beth Abraham family.” A graduate of the State University of New York at Buffalo, Ms. Wagner is currently pursuing a master's degree in public policy and public administration (MPA) at Columbia University. She has served as director of public relations at the Brooklyn Historical Society and worked for more than a decade as an independent freelance journalist for NationalPublic Radio and other newsmedia organizations. Her earlier work in public radio included promotion and development activities such as grant writing, corporate underwriting sales and on-air fundraising. Wagner residesin Westchester County with her husband, a senior investigative attorney with the Manhattan District Attorney’s office. This fall, their son will be a senior at the University of Chicago and their daughter will be a freshman at McGill University in Montreal. She loves to hike, write, and sing and has dabbled on the piano in the past. |
Purchase Fashionable Tees, Support the IMNF!
May 21, 2007 (New York, NY) - Town & Country magazine recently published a special philanthropy issue, announcing that $5.00 from every sale of Le Tigre polo shirts through September will benefit the IMNF. Proceeds will support the use of music therapy to restore, maintain, and improve physical, emotional, psycho-social, and neurological function, along with clinical and scientific research. To purchase this item, please click on the image on the left or visit www.letigreusa.com. |
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