Project Espressivo is SMU SoundFoundry's flagship community service initiative, harnessing the therapeutic power of music to support persons with aphasia (PWAs) in their recovery journey. Launched in 2021 in partnership with Aphasia SG, this project demonstrates how university students can contribute meaningfully to specialised healthcare support through their musical talents and dedication.
The project centers on music-based rehabilitation, with SMU student volunteers participating in both online and in-person chit-chat and choir sessions organised by Aphasia SG. These sessions provide crucial therapeutic support for persons with aphasia, a communication disorder that typically results from stroke or brain injury, affecting the ability to speak, understand, read, or write. Through structured musical activities, participants can often access language and communication pathways that traditional speech therapy alone may not reach.
This project was supported by Tote Board Social Capital Initiative: SMU Inspiring Community Service Grant (2021 - 2024).
