Playlist for Life’s new Executive Director 

Michelle joined the charity in 2019 as Head of Operations and has held the role of Interim Executive Director since August 2020.  

Michelle Armstrong-Surgenor said:  

“The work of Playlist for Life has always held great significance for me, so I’m very excited to take on this role and lead the charity. For many years my grandma, who had Alzheimer’s, lived at home with us. My mother was her primary carer and received very little external support. A personalised playlist of meaningful music is a simple way to make a huge difference to the lives of people affected by dementia.”

“Supporting people living with dementia has never been more important as the pandemic has undoubtedly been an extremely difficult time for those living with dementia, their families and carers. But, even in the toughest of times, music can help.”   

Sandra Stark, Chair of the Board of Trustees said:  

 “On behalf of the Trustees, I am delighted to announce Michelle Armstrong-Surgenor as the Executive Director for Playlist for Life.”    

“Her achievements and commitment to the charity are very clear and we are excited that she will formally lead our committed  team of staff and volunteers  to bring the benefits of personal music to people with dementia, their families and carers across the UK.”   

About Michelle  

Michelle Armstrong-Surgenor has extensive experience in the private and voluntary sector, beginning her third-sector career in 2013 at Cancer Research UK,  before taking on the CEO role at Hearts and Minds — the Scottish health-in-arts charity. She is currently a member of the Board of Trustees for Aberlour Children’s Charity and was previously a panel member of The Scottish Fundraising Standards and Adjudication Panel. Earlier in her career Michelle worked for various multinational organisations in locations across Europe, the Middle East and Canada. Listen to Michelle’s personalised playlist.

About Playlist for Life 

Playlist for Life is a music and dementia charity. Our charity was founded in 2013 by writer and broadcaster Sally Magnusson after the death of her mother, Mamie, who lived with dementia.  

Over two decades of scientific research has shown that listening to a personalised playlist can improve the lives of those living with dementia. In fact, listening to music that is personally meaningful has many psychological benefits, meaning anyone can benefit from a playlist. 

Playlist for Life harnesses the powerful effects of personal music to help anyone who is affected by dementia, their families and carers. Get started on a playlist today.