Two stroke rehabilitation study groups will join forces for a combined concert on Sunday as part of the renowned BrainWaves choir.

Conducted by Hunter Medical Research Institute researcher and East Maitland woman Bernadette Matthias, BrainWaves will join other community vocal ensembles in the Making Waves: A Celebration of Song.

Ms Matthias formed the original BrainWaves choir in 2012 as part of her PhD research into the impact of choral singing on stroke recovery.

A second group was recruited in February this year, undergoing a

12-week singing course before making their public debut in June. 

The choir recently gained national prominence on the SBS Insight program.

While the results of the study are yet to be published, choir members have reported benefits in their communication skills and well-being.

“There appears to be a rich interconnection between the processes involved in singing and speech,” Ms Matthias said. “So in addition to the benefits for well-being and depression, stimulating the brain by singing might help the

language centre recover as well. “

BrainWaves will perform at the Harold Lobb Concert Hall, at the Newcastle Conservatorium of Music, on Sunday at noon. 

For more information visit www.newcastle.edu.au.