Who we are

Healing Harmonies New Mexico is a nonprofit singing organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals living with neurological conditions through the power of music and community. By combining evidence-based therapeutic practices with the joy of singing, the choir supports vocal strength, speech clarity, cognitive engagement, emotional well-being, and meaningful social connection.

Founded in 2022, Healing Harmonies began as a small group with a simple but powerful vision: to create a space where individuals with neurological conditions could come together, use their voices, and feel connected. Since then, the choir has grown tremendously into a vibrant and thriving community, serving dozens of members and their care partners from across the greater Albuquerque area. What started as just a handful of participants has evolved into a dynamic program that continues to expand in both size and impact.

Our choir is uniquely designed for individuals living with conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, stroke, dementia, ALS, and other neurological changes, along with their care partners. Whether through uplifting performances or shared moments in rehearsal, Healing Harmonies provides a supportive, welcoming environment where individuals can rediscover their voice, build confidence, and experience a renewed sense of purpose and belonging.

Beyond our local community, Healing Harmonies is actively working to expand its reach across New Mexico. We are committed to supporting other communities in developing similar choirs by sharing resources, guidance, and our program model. Our goal is to increase access to music-based support programs so that more individuals and families throughout the state can benefit from connection, creativity, and evidence-informed care.

At the heart of Healing Harmonies is Nicole Gallegos, MS, CCC-SLP, founder and director. Nicole is a licensed speech-language pathologist and certified vocologist with a deep commitment to helping individuals communicate and live to their fullest potential. She brings extensive expertise in voice, aphasia, swallowing, and neurorehabilitation, working with individuals affected by stroke, traumatic brain injury, head and neck cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases.

Nicole’s approach blends clinical excellence with creativity, integrating current research with practical, accessible techniques. As both a clinician and musician, she understands firsthand how music can support breath, voice, timing, memory, and connection. This unique perspective shapes Healing Harmonies into a program that is both therapeutic and deeply human.

A vital part of the Healing Harmonies experience is the leadership and musicianship of Larry Gallegos, affectionately known by choir members as “Uncle Larry.” A well-known figure in New Mexico’s Catholic music community, Larry brings decades of experience as a singer, guitar player, choir director, and television and radio production professional. His background includes extensive work with Bernalillo County, Comcast and KOB-TV as a writer, photographer and editor, plus audio and on camera talent. Larry’s steady presence, musical expertise, and genuine warmth help create an environment where participants feel supported, confident, and inspired.Together, this blend of clinical knowledge, musical artistry, and community connection creates something truly special.

Join us in harmonizing health and hope through music—transforming lives, one note at a time.

Leadership & Board of Directors

Healing Harmonies New Mexico is supported by a strong leadership team and a dedicated Board of Directors who are committed to advancing our mission and expanding our impact across New Mexico.

Executive Director

  • Nicole Gallegos
    Founder & Speech-Language Pathologist

Board of Directors

Healing Harmonies New Mexico is guided by a dedicated Board of Directors who bring a wealth of experience, leadership, and passion for our mission. Together, they provide strategic direction, support organizational growth, and help ensure we continue to serve individuals and families impacted by neurological conditions throughout our community and beyond.

We are grateful for their commitment to advancing our work and strengthening the impact of Healing Harmonies across New Mexico.

  • Dave Moore — President

  • Susan Kennedy — Vice President

  • Nancy Shambach — Treasurer

  • Kate Blaker — Secretary

  • Dayton Vorhees — Director

Full bios and photos coming soon.