The Harmonica Parkinsons Project
​A music-based program empowering people with Parkinson’s Disease to improve speech, coordination, and joy through harmonica playing.
What
A step-by-step harmonica program designed for people with Parkinson's, care partners, and anyone interested in supporting the community. No prior musical experience required. Our 23 progressive lessons work perfectly for self-study at home or as a foundation for starting local harmonica groups where you can connect with others on the same journey.
Why
People with Parkinson's often face challenges with speech clarity, breath control, and social isolation. Playing the harmonica directly addresses these concerns by strengthening the muscles used in speech, improving breath capacity and articulation, helping manage saliva production, and creating joyful opportunities to connect with others who understand the journey.
How
The project provides everything you need to succeed: a comprehensive harmonica lesson book, step-by-step instructional videos, and a vibrant online community. Our website serves as your central hub, offering learning resources, a forum to connect with fellow participants, and curated links to helpful e-books and Parkinson's information. Learn at your own pace, celebrate your progress with others, and join live group sessions when you're ready.
The Man behind the Music
Meet Kevin Lockette
Kevin Lockette is presently the vice-president of the Hawaii Parkinson Association and former past president. He is currently, and has been for the last fifteen years, the group leader for the Honolulu Parkinson Support Group.
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Kevin started with Neuromodulation Deep Brain Stimulation in May of 2013 with emphasis on Parkinson’s disease. Prior Kevin has twenty-five years of physical therapy experience with a special interest in Parkinson’s disease. His Parkinson’s disease certifications include LSVT-BIG, National Parkinson
Foundation-ATTP, and the John Argue Method. He is the producer, writer, and director of the DVD and book project titled “Move It- A Movement and Exercise Guide for People with Parkinson’s Disease”, Langdon Street Press, 2008. He has also developed a PD group exercise program at the Windward YMCA that is now going island-wide at all YMCA branches on Oahu as well as Hilo and Maui.
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Kevin has lectured nationally on topics such as “Movement Strategies for Parkinson’s,” “Exercise and Parkinson’s,” and now “Harmonica for Parkinson’s.” Kevin and his wife Ginger are long-term residents in Kailua, Hawaii. Kevin enjoys walking his dog Muddy and playing ukelele and blues harmonica.
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