The Connections Program

The Connections Program invites people in the earlier stages of Alzheimer’s and dementia to experience the museum in a supported environment designed to minimize stress and to provide a connection between each visitor and the art on view in the museum. CAM has invited area Certifi ed Therapeutic Musicians (CMPs) to help make our Monday Connections tours an even greater delight for the senses with music in the galleries and the Galleria.

Therapeutic musicians are trained to create a healing environment to address many types of health conditions including anxiety, pain, and dementia, just to name a few. Live, prescriptive music can positively influence mood and can help the listener reconnect to good memories from the past. We invite guests and their care givers to attend one or all the sessions in this five-week exploration of art and music. Guests will be welcomed with musical selections from a harpist or flutist to set the mood for the day, then we will continue to infuse music throughout the tour and the activities designed by museum staff to complement the exhibitions. The beauty of live music is that it can be changed in an instant to fit the mood.

After your tour, participants are invited to create artwork in response to the exhibitions. Our Education team will lead projects that allow all visitors to respond to the art or music they have experienced. Guests are also invited to bring a lunch to the museum and enjoy seating in our cafe or courtyard after the tour.

There is no charge for the Connections Program, but we ask that you pre-register. We also offer Monday tours for those with disabilities who may benefit from an adaptive museum experience that caters to your specific needs. To learn more or make your reservation, please call Georgia Mastroieni at 910-395-5999 ext. 1019, or email education@cameronartmuseum.org.

How do I schedule an in-person tour with the Connections Program?

• Individual caregivers or assisted living facilities need to make an appointment by calling or contacting Georgia Mastroieni at 910.395.5999 ext. 1019 or email to: education@cameronartmuseum.org
  If you are interested in scheduling a tour individually please contact education@cameronartmuseum.org
• Tours are given on Mondays by appointment.
• Groups from assisted living facilities will need to provide at least one caregiver for every three participants.
• Please plan approximately one hour for your tour.
• Wheelchairs are available if requested at the time of the reservation.

Thank you to the Champion McDowell Davis Charitable Foundation and to Bo Dean for making Connections possible.

MANY THANKS TO OUR ONGOING SPONSORS FOR MAKING THIS PROGRAM AVAILABLE TO NEW HANOVER COUNTY RESIDENTS.