Working one-to-one

The techniques in this section can be the basis for a vast amount of work and need very little further explanation. They can all be extended in a variety of ways to accommodate the particular needs of each child. For instance, conversation work can start from simple vocalisations – just as many parents do instinctively with newborn babies.

The techniques also benefit considerably from repetition. Each one is open-ended and they can form a wonderful indicator of a child’s progress over the longer term

Find out more about one-to-one music here.

Using building blocks to devise group sessions

Much of the one-to-one work will instantly translate into group activities simply by turn-taking and observing. A session structured in this way has a lot of value.

However, you could also use simple riffs and pentatonic scales (see our 'Building blocks' pages) to make background textures that can be played by the whole group with one child having their musical conversation as a solo.  This not only means that the whole group is actively participating all the time, it also gives you a simple form of musical structure with foreground and background and a series of “verses” as each child has their turn as the soloist.

Equipment

A lot of the electronic equipment available is designed specifically for this work and it is marvellous. However, just using voices can take you a very long way.

Electric guitars can be great as a small movement can produce a big sound. The same can be said about a large tambour or drum. There are some wonderful “supersized” percussion instruments available specifically designed for use with children with complex needs.

Never underestimate the possibilities of a piano. It seems the most technical of instruments but in fact it is nothing more than a set of switches, each one of which gives you a specific note. What is more, these switches are extremely sensitive to variations of touch and are colour coded to allow access to 2 pre-selected sets of sounds....

You'll find more information about equipment by clicking here.