Starting Wednesday, 16 July 2025, and every Wednesday at 22:00 Athens time, Stavroula Karali and Christos Pagonis introduce us to remarkable individuals from Greece and the global Greek diaspora in the program “Remarkable Personalities” on Voice of Greece.
This week’s guest is Dr. Tania Papayannopoulou, music therapist and conductor of the New York-based ensemble “The Unforgettables Chorus”.
Dr. Papayannopoulou shares how music can awaken memories and emotions in people living with dementia. “Music touches the heart and soul of those with memory loss,” she says — a single note, a rhythm, or a refrain can spark powerful recollections. This belief is at the heart of The Unforgettables Chorus, which collaborates with major hospitals in the U.S. and includes people in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease and their caregivers.
The choir was founded in 2011 by Dr. Mary Mittelman, an epidemiologist and Director of Psychosocial Research and Support at the NYU Aging and Dementia Research Center. As its conductor, Dr. Papayannopoulou not only leads the musical direction but also helps build community and resilience. In recent years, several U.S. states have begun forming similar choruses, inspired by the work and model of The Unforgettables.
Produced and presented by Stavroula Karali & Christos Pagonis
Broadcast: Wednesday, 16 July 2025, 22:00–23:00 Athens time
