At first glance, the NeuroHarmony Choir might appear like any other small community singing group—members gathering to harmonize over familiar tunes. But behind the music lies a profound story of resilience, recovery, and connection. For the choir’s members, many of whom have experienced strokes, aphasia, or brain injuries, singing is more than a hobby; it’s a lifeline.
The NeuroHarmony Choir serves individuals facing neurological challenges, providing them with a space to heal, connect, and rediscover their voices.
Associate professor at Brigham Young University Tyson Harmon and Tracy Liu, an assistant teaching professor, have been instrumental in shaping the choir’s mission. “We wanted to be inclusive,” said Liu. “Some of the choir members have other brain injuries or dementia, where singing can still be a way for them to communicate and feel connection.”
Music’s therapeutic role is well-documented, but in the NeuroHarmony Choir, its impact is deeply personal. For those who struggle to speak due to aphasia—a condition often caused by stroke—singing familiar songs can unlock words that regular conversation cannot.
Liu describes this as transformative. “It’s amazing to see choir members who struggle to form sentences light up as they sing entire verses,” she said. “It brings them joy, and you can see their sense of accomplishment.”
The choir originally began before the pandemic but was temporarily disbanded during COVID-19. It was revived through the collective efforts of BYU students and faculty, including Louisa Porter, a graduate student in communication disorders, and Josh Washburn, an economics major with a minor in gerontology. Both students saw the choir as an opportunity to bridge their academic pursuits with meaningful service.
Porter, who studied classical voice, immediately recognized the choir’s unique potential. “It’s everything I love—working one-on-one with people and using music to help them improve,” she said.
For Washburn, his studies on aging and social connection illuminated the choir’s broader significance. “Loneliness is a huge challenge for people with neurological conditions,” he said. “The choir facilitates that connection, helping members combat isolation.”
A defining moment for many choir members came during a recent performance at a rehabilitation center. As they sang, they weren’t just entertaining patients—they were providing hope. Washburn recalls how choir members shared personal testimonials after the performance, encouraging patients who were still in recovery. “It was amazing to see them say, ‘I was once where you are, and look where I am now,’” he said.
Porter echoes this sentiment, explaining how these performances blur the lines between giving and receiving service. “At first, I thought we were helping the choir members, but I realized we were all serving together,” she said. “The members inspire others while gaining confidence in their own recovery journey.”
Liu agrees, noting the ripple effect of the choir’s work. “When we perform, people see themselves reflected in our members,” she said. “It’s a reminder that progress is possible.”
For many involved, faith also plays a pivotal role. Liu, Washburn, and Porter all noted how their testimonies have been strengthened through their experiences with the choir. “It’s a testimony to me that the Lord knows us and provides ways to overcome challenges,” said Liu. “He places such an emphasis on community, and the choir reflects that.”
Porter shares a similar reflection, explaining how the choir has helped her better understand the character of Jesus Christ. “It’s about acting as He would. By serving others because you love them, not because you’re checking a box,” she said.
For Washburn, witnessing recovery among choir members has been a faith-affirming experience. “It’s inspiring to see people heal in ways we don’t fully understand,” he said. “Trusting in God helps miracles happen.”
Though the NeuroHarmony Choir remains small—about six to eight members regularly attend—it’s growing. The choir welcomes anyone who wants to join, regardless of singing ability. “We collaborate on song choices, and the themes always reflect hope, connection, and resilience,” Liu said.
For Porter and Washburn, their work with the choir has left a lasting impression. “It’s shown me that even small efforts can make a big difference,” said Washburn. “Changing one person’s life is enough.”
The choir is more than just a choir; it’s a testament to the power of music, community, and faith in overcoming life’s greatest challenges. For those who have lost their voices, it offers a chance to sing again and to be heard.
Liu hopes the choir will continue to grow, spreading its message of hope to more individuals and families. “This choir is about belonging,” she said. “It’s about lifting each other up and showing that no one has to face their challenges alone.”
The NeuroHarmony Choir may be small, but its impact resonates far beyond the walls of their practice room. It’s a reminder that healing happens not just through therapy or medicine, but through human connection, shared experiences, and the universal language of music.