Nashville Symphony Chorus Helps 'Seasoned' Singers Stay Sharp

Singing in the choir challenges the brain and provides personal healing for members ranging from 22 to 80 years old.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 10:48pm

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An extreme close-up X-ray photograph showing the intricate internal structure of the human throat, with glowing ghostly lines defining the anatomy that enables singing.An X-ray view of the human vocal apparatus reveals the complex anatomy that enables the powerful, emotive singing of the Nashville Symphony Chorus.Today in Nashville

The Nashville Symphony Chorus, a dedicated group of 150 singers ranging from 22 to nearly 80 years old, is helping its members keep their voices and brains sharp. Chorus director Tucker Biddlecombe says singing in the choir activates all areas of the brain, challenging members to sight-read music and learn new things in a social setting. Research shows this type of brain stimulation can help reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease by 60% when combined with proper nutrition, exercise, stress management, and sleep. For some members like Duane Hamilton and Dr. Carla Davis, singing in the chorus also provides personal healing and joy.

Why it matters

Maintaining brain health and cognitive function as people age is a critical public health issue, with Alzheimer's disease affecting millions. The Nashville Symphony Chorus provides a unique opportunity for 'seasoned' singers to keep their minds active through the challenge of learning and performing complex choral music together, which research shows can have significant benefits for reducing dementia risk.

The details

The Nashville Symphony Chorus is a dedicated group of 150 singers ranging from 22 to nearly 80 years old. Chorus director Tucker Biddlecombe says the group is 'really involved' and 'care about music first, then care about each other equally first.' Members like 73-year-old Duane Hamilton and 77-year-old retired pathologist Dr. Carla Davis take extra measures to keep their voices in shape, with Davis taking voice lessons to maintain her vocal abilities as she has aged. Both believe singing in the chorus at this level gives them joy and a sense of purpose.

  • The Nashville Symphony Chorus will perform A Bluegrass Mass on Thursday, April 21, 2026 at 7:30 p.m.

The players

Tucker Biddlecombe

Chorus director and associate dean of Vanderbilt's Blair School of Music.

Duane Hamilton

A 73-year-old former disc jockey-turned-long-haul truck driver who is a member of the Nashville Symphony Chorus.

Dr. Carla Davis

A 77-year-old retired pathologist who is a member of the Nashville Symphony Chorus and takes voice lessons to maintain her vocal abilities as she has aged.

Dr. Chris Nixon

A retired pathologist now researching cancer who has been a member of the Nashville Symphony Chorus for 25 years, helping him overcome his stage fright.

Dean and Ayesha Sherzai

Authors of the book 'The Alzheimer's Solution: A Breakthrough Program to Prevent and Reverse the Symptoms of Cognitive Decline at Every Age.'

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What they’re saying

“It's a really involved dedicated group of people who care about music first, then care about each other equally first.”

— Tucker Biddlecombe, Chorus director and associate dean of Vanderbilt's Blair School of Music

“I can't imagine a life without singing. It brings joy to my life.”

— Dr. Carla Davis, Retired pathologist and member of the Nashville Symphony Chorus

“There are moments in this rehearsal when I have to stop and take it in because it touches me. It hits me where I need. So do I get choked up? Yes, I do. Right now. This is a soothing balm for my heart right now.”

— Duane Hamilton, Member of the Nashville Symphony Chorus

What’s next

The Nashville Symphony Chorus will perform A Bluegrass Mass on Thursday, April 21, 2026 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets and information about auditioning for the chorus are available on the Nashville Symphony's website.

The takeaway

Singing in a community choir like the Nashville Symphony Chorus provides tremendous benefits for brain health and personal well-being, especially for older adults. The social engagement, cognitive challenge, and emotional fulfillment of choral singing can help reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia when combined with a healthy lifestyle.