Denver Memory Choir Offered New Musical Support
The Second Verse Choir in Denver uses errorless learning to support 47 adults living with memory loss.
Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in Alzheimer’s
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Founded by Anne Rigley and Kris Boggs in January 2026, the Second Verse Choir provides a supportive musical space for individuals with memory loss. The program operates out of the Central Christian Church in Cherry Creek to help combat social isolation.
Why it matters
The initiative seeks to challenge the stigma surrounding Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. By fostering community participation, the program addresses the mental health impact of isolation often faced by those navigating cognitive decline.
The Second Verse Choir serves 47 participants in its current fall session. While the program focuses on social engagement, the long-term clinical benefits of this specific musical intervention remain under investigation.
The players
Anne Rigley
Social worker and co-founder of the Second Verse Choir.
Kris Boggs
Social worker and co-founder of the Second Verse Choir.
Jacqueline McCurdy
The choir director who implements errorless learning techniques.
The details
Participants attend weekly rehearsals alongside a caregiver or volunteer to engage in structured music practice. The director utilizes errorless learning, a technique designed to minimize the possibility of making mistakes, which helps reduce frustration for individuals experiencing memory impairment.
Timeline
Anne Rigley conceived the choir idea in 2025.
The Second Verse Choir launched in January 2026.
Rehearsals take place on Thursday mornings.
A concert and fundraiser is scheduled for November 14, 2026.
Health Landscape
The use of errorless learning in this choir reflects a broader shift toward integrating evidence-based pedagogical techniques into community-based social support for dementia. This approach moves beyond traditional treatment paradigms by emphasizing social connection alongside cognitive scaffolding.
If you or a loved one are managing memory loss, community-based music programs can offer a structured, low-pressure environment for social interaction. Discuss with your physician whether such community activities might complement your current care plan.
The takeaway
Musical engagement through errorless learning can provide a meaningful social outlet for those navigating cognitive challenges. Readers interested in non-pharmacological support for memory loss should consult with a primary care provider about local community programs.
What happens next
The Second Verse Choir will host a public concert, reception, and fundraiser at the Central Christian Church on November 14, 2026, starting at 1 p.m.
Further reading
Find more resources and updates on local programs in our Alzheimer’s section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Bucket List Community News.
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Do you believe local arts programs significantly improve the lives of community members with memory loss?
