On Saturday 26th of September 2026 at Norden Farm Centre for the Arts in Maidenhead, guests gathered for our fundraising concert ‘Songs that Never Leave You’ in aid of Alzheimers Dementia Support, ‘ADS’ Charity. Late September is usually not this warm and we got away with wearing short sleeves – the day turned out warm and sunny. Guests started arriving early to take advantage of the opportunity to grab refreshments and snacks on the terrace and enjoy the soft golden light of early autumn.
Behind the scenes, months of planning and preparation were finally coming together. With five acts and a grand finale on the bill, there was much to coordinate. Everyone involved was getting into position, ready for what was going to be a busy and very special evening.
The choice of music was far from incidental. Music can be incredibly powerful for People with Dementia and their Carers. Songs that have stayed with us throughout our lives can often remain accessible even when other memories become difficult to reach.
Carers often describe moments when someone living with Dementia, who may have been quiet or withdrawn, suddenly hears a familiar tune from their past and begins to sing along. For those few moments, treasured memories can come flooding back, creating a sense of connection and allowing them to feel like themselves again. Hence Songs that Never Leave You as the theme.
If you were with us on the evening, thank you. If you couldn’t make it, here’s a taste of what you missed.
The Performances
Harry Ballin of Windsor Auctions did an excellent job hosting the evening. He knows how to create the right atmosphere and get the crowd going!
Harry Ballin of Windsor Auctions was the Host for the evening
Eve Maidwell got the evening off to a superb start with a mix of unforgettable songs and original numbers she wrote herself. Eve is a hugely talented artist with a beautiful voice and she set the tone perfectly for the night ahead.
Eve Maidwell
Up next was acoustic Duo Sideline, with Simon on vocals and Jo at the grand piano. Their powerful set consisted of songs from a variety of styles and eras that had the room singing along and waving their arms in the air, and never more so than during Sweet Caroline by Neil Diamond.
Acoustic Duo Sideline
Then The Azure Adult Tappers took to the stage in sparkling costumes, tapping their way through two absolute classics. Part of the fun of the evening was the mixture of styles, with everyone wondering what might come next!
The Azure Adult Tappers
What came next was Marty & Del, and they were phenomenal. Dressed for the era, they performed vintage songs from the 1940s acting out the numbers as well as singing them. They brought something special and unique to the line up.
Marty & Del
That 70’s Choir followed – made up of 32 men and women in flamboyant 70’s outfits. Their set was uplifting and they treated the room to beautiful harmonies and a selection of irresistible songs that soon had everyone up on their feet and dancing. Even our backstage volunteers were spotted strutting a few moves in the wings!
That 70’s Choir
To close the night, every performer came together on stage for the finale. It was a joyful and happy way in which to conclude the night.
Finale - All Acts Perform Together
‘ADS’ Chairman David Jannetta and our Patron and Special guest Sue Holderness, also took to the stage to thank Harry and every one of the performers for giving their their time and talents so generously to help raise much-needed funds for such an important cause.
Marty & Del with ‘ADS’ Charity Patron Sue Holderness
The feedback since has been wonderful. Everyone had a fantastic time, and we’re delighted to share that we raised over £1,400 for ‘ADS’ on the evening. Every penny will help us to continue supporting local People affected by Dementia and their Carers and families.
We would also like to thank our volunteers, who helped on the night as well as the team at Norden Farm, especially the technical staff. We could not be more grateful to all who contributed to making this evening the success that it was.
Some songs never leave you and we have a feeling that this evening won’t either!
