Music Mirrors: Your life story through music

Music Mirrors, originally founded by music teacher Heather Edwards, is an online database that stores personal music memories and descriptions for loved ones and care professionals to access throughout an individual’s journey.

Memories are a vital part of who we are. Research shows that music can unlock memories, emotions, and connections—even when words are hard to find. While memory loss can occur naturally with ageing, it can also happen due to illness, accident, or dementia.

A Music Mirror is more than a playlist—it’s a personal memory toolkit, combining your own words with sounds and music that spark meaningful recollections later in life.

Music has the power to evoke feelings and bring back moments that may seem lost. A favourite song, a childhood lullaby, or a tune from a special occasion can unlock memories that feel hidden away. With the right audio cues, these memories often come flooding back.

Our evidence-based service includes four weekly sessions (1 hour each) at the Hub, supported by one or two healthcare students under the direct supervision of an Occupational Therapist. Together, you’ll reminisce about key life moments and identify songs or sounds that hold significance. These will be collated into your Music Mirror, complete with links to YouTube clips. You’re welcome to bring a loved one for support during the sessions.

To access this service, please complete our adult referral form and email to healthwellbeingcare@essex.ac.uk and a member of the team will be in touch to discuss your referral.