Parkinson's Steppers: a Leeds class where movement makes music
Parkinson's Steppers is a new movement and wellbeing class for people living with Parkinson's and their carers in Leeds. Using wearable technology that makes sounds as you move, it launches on Friday 19 June, 1.30pm to 3pm, for six weeks at the University of Leeds. A £30 block booking applies and pre-booking is essential via connect@harmonyinmotion.co.uk.
In Leeds, a new class called Parkinson's Steppers invites people living with Parkinson's and their carers to move and make sound using wearable technology. Created by Harmony in Motion, it runs Fridays from 19 June, 1.30pm to 3pm, for six weeks at the University of Leeds. The £30 block booking requires pre-booking.
There is something quietly wonderful about a room where movement makes music. From this June in Leeds, people living with Parkinson's and the people who care for them are being invited into exactly that kind of space — to step, sway and reach, and to hear their own movements turn into sound. The class is called Parkinson's Steppers, and it has been created by Harmony in Motion, an artist-led organisation that brings movement, sound, art and care into the same room. Picture it: a friendly group, gentle encouragement, and the warmth of doing something creative together.
Where movement becomes sound
What makes these sessions special is the relationship between moving and listening. Using groundbreaking wearable technology that makes sounds as you move, participants come together as a group to find meaningful ways of moving and creating sound. There is no right or wrong way to do it, and no previous experience is required. Friendly, experienced instructors are on hand to show everyone how to wear the technology and how to use it most effectively, so the focus stays exactly where it should be: being active in a creative and social way.
The organisers describe Parkinson's Steppers as the first project of its kind in the UK, and it is designed specifically for people living with Parkinson's and their carers to move more, together.
"We are very excited to be bringing this new initiative to Parkinson's communities. We have really enjoyed developing this practice and can't wait to share it"
That is Louise McDowall and Rosemary Spencer, Creative Directors at Harmony in Motion, on the launch.
Why being active helps people live well with Parkinson's
Being active can be one of the best ways to live well with a long-term health condition such as Parkinson's. The benefits people can experience include:
- Improved balance and coordination
- Better strength, flexibility and mobility
- An improved sense of wellbeing and mindfulness
- Better memory and cognitive skills
- Greater social interaction
- Improved speech and communications skills
It is the combination of all of these — the body, the mind and the company of others — that makes a class like this feel less like exercise and more like a good afternoon out.
How to take part
The sessions form a new six-week pilot programme, and participants are warmly encouraged to share their feedback along the way, which will help shape the next phase of the project. The classes are open to anyone living with Parkinson's and their carers, and pre-booking is essential, so if this sounds like something for you or someone close to you, it is worth getting in touch early. Here are the details to save:
- Starts: Friday 19 June 2026, 1.30pm to 3pm, running for 6 consecutive weeks
- Where: Clothworkers South Building, University of Leeds, LS2 9JT
- Cost: £30 block booking (pre-booking essential)
- No previous experience required
- To book or ask a question: connect@harmonyinmotion.co.uk
About Harmony in Motion
Harmony in Motion is an artist-led organisation bringing movement, sound, art and care into the same room. As associate artists at Stage@Leeds, they create safe, innovative and inspiring spaces where people with Parkinson's and their loved ones and carers can connect with themselves and each other through moving and listening. With Parkinson's Steppers, they are turning that vision into a friendly weekly gathering right here in Leeds, and they would love to see you there.
About Parkinson's UK
Parkinson's UK is the country's leading charity for people affected by Parkinson's, supporting people to stay active, connected and well — and helping share community initiatives like Parkinson's Steppers. If you or someone you love has been affected by Parkinson's, the charity runs a free, confidential helpline on 0808 800 0303, with more support and guidance at parkinsons.org.uk.
Published in partnership with Parkinson's UK.
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This article was produced with AI assistance and reviewed under our editorial guidelines.
Frequently asked questions
How do I join the Parkinson's Steppers movement class in Leeds?
Parkinson's Steppers runs on Fridays from 1.30pm to 3pm, starting Friday 19 June, for six consecutive weeks at the Clothworkers South Building, University of Leeds, LS2 9JT. It costs £30 as a block booking and is open to people living with Parkinson's and their carers, with no previous experience needed. Pre-booking is essential, so email connect@harmonyinmotion.co.uk to book or ask a question.
