AJA Logo

2015 Atlantic Journalism Awards Finalists

Attachments



Slug/Label Harmonica Dementia
Date Aired or Published 12/07/2015
Media outlet where first aired or published: Global New Brunswick
Name of Program: Evening News
If co-produced, list partner: n/a
Location: Moncton, New Brunswick
List awards, grants: n/a
Running time (TV/Radio): 2:29

Short explanation of the story and how it developed:

Reporter Shelley Steeves tells the story of 91-year-old Erma Corey, who can still play a tune on her harmonica without skipping a beat after having first learned to play as a child. The comforting songs remain an important part of her life, despite having lost so much else to dementia. Steeves and camera operator Steve Fiander visited Erma to learn more and tell the story of the final chapters of her life -- how her music affects those around her and how a younger volunteer has shared those experiences. The resulting piece proved to be so touching that it was picked up by CBS Morning News and broadcast in U.S. markets.

Resources of the newsroom (money and time) available to complete the story:

The story was shot and produced in a single day, meaning time was of the essence as the team worked to balance accurate and compassionate reporting with a tight deadline.

Return to list of finalists