EP 125 :: Recapturing Memories Through Dementia Choir :: Joshua Vickery

In this foot-tapping episode, Bobbi & Mike talk with Joshua Vickery, Executive Director of Encore Creativity for Older Adults. We learn how Joshua uses music to engage people living with dementia and tap into their memories of beloved songs.

Joshua Vickery is a vocalist, actor, teacher, producer, musical director, arts administrator and conductor. Joshua’s love of music and the arts has allowed him to have an incredible career thus far. He earned his Associate of Arts Degree in Vocal Performance at Indian River Community College, receiving the honor of Outstanding Fine Arts Graduate. He then earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in General Education/Music at Palm Beach Atlantic University where he served in various leadership roles. Joshua grew up with a passion for music ministry and service. He served on several large church teams as music and worship director over vocal praise teams, orchestras, youth choirs, drama and pageants. He helped director the Palm Beach Singing Christmas Trees which was televised to thousands in South Florida. During his tenure in these churches, he founded and served as the Executive Producer of the Central Florida Christmas Celebration, in which he coached youth and adult vocal performers, developed shows and scripts, and managed hundreds of volunteers.

Joshua is the founder of Central Florida Community Arts, an organization in which he was the executive director for 11 years. This organization consists of thousands of artists in multiple choirs, an adult and youth symphony orchestra, children/youth arts program, theatre, School of Performing Arts and programs for seniors, vulnerable communities and arts and wellness. CFCArts strives to make the arts affordable and accessible, and uses the arts as a catalyst to create change in the community in a variety of ways.

Joshua is currently the Chief Executive Officer of Encore Creativity, the nation’s largest and fastest growing choral and arts organization for older adults. He leads the company and is focused on strategic partnerships, fundraising, strategic planning and the national expansion. He is working to leverage Encore to be the nation’s thought leader on creative aging.

Joshua has been a featured soloist in countless venues, produced musical recordings, and been a director of numerous productions. Joshua has been an entertainment leader, casting director, and vocal coach for Walt Disney Entertainment.

Follow Joshua on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram.

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