In recognition of November being Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month, one local musician is using her powerful pipes to fund research to fight the disease that affects over 5 million people in the United States. Opera singer and Springfield native Morgan Middleton is staging her own one-woman musical titled “Remember When,” Nov. 17-18 at Fairfax Church of Christ – located at 3901 Rugby Road in Fairfax.
“Remember When” follows the story a twenty-something woman named April on a journey of self-discovery and coming-of-age, set to the classic music her grandmother loved like pop standards, vintage jazz, and songs from notable musical theatre shows. Middleton came up with the idea after reflecting on the impact music often plays on one’s memory and the idea that music from one’s past can positively enhance their activity, mental/physical activity and behavior, regardless of the advancement of Alzheimer’s.
The music and score of “Remember When” is founded in the Great American Songbook – popular music spanning from the 1920s to the 1960s that was enjoyed by the people suffering from Alzheimer’s today. Some legendary composers included are George Gershwin, Harold Arlen, Cole Porter, and Sammy Cahn. Accompanying Middleton in “Remember When” is professional jazz musicians Ali Cook on bass, James Peachey on drums, and Carter Stevens on piano.
Middleton – a classically-trained mezzo soprano – received her musical education from the University of Southern California and the New England Conservatory. After over a decade singing with the World Children’s Choir, based out of Falls Church, she spent a summer singing with the Washington National Opera’s Opera Institute. In addition, Middleton has shared her voice domestically and internationally, performing all across the United States and Italy.
“Remember When” first debuted in Boston back in April, with funding provided by Middleton’s alma mater the New England Conservatory and the Boston Foundation. Chesterbrook Residences – a local assisted-living facility – is helping fund Middleton’s Nov. 17-18 performances in Fairfax.
Originally posted by Fairfax County Times on Nov 16, 2017