MusicAbility can often cause some initial confusion for those first learning about us. At first they may think we are an average music lessons company, or maybe they see that our website mention disabilities and they think we ONLY teach students with disabilities.
The truth?
MusicAbility, at its foundation, believes and practices a teaching philosophy called inclusion.
What is inclusion?
Inclusion means putting people with and without disabilities in the same settings and situations with any necessary accommodations. Even though most MusicAbility lessons take place in a one-on-one setting, this philosophy is most notably put in to practice during our twice-a-year recitals and with our teachers.
MusicAbility hires only teachers who have experience, understanding, and/or willingness to learn about adapting lessons for individuals with disabilities. Students with disabilities do not all get assigned to the same teacher; any one teacher will have students with a range of abilities. This means, for example, that if a neurotypical child and their disabled sibling want to both take piano, they will both have the same teacher and, for the most part, a similar curriculum tailored for them.
Reduced Stigma
At MusicAbility, neurotypical students will see their disabled peers participating in the same recital and performing songs on their instrument just like them. They will see that their disabled peers are equally as capable as they are, and have the shared experience of learning an instrument, taking weekly lessons, and practicing for their performance. This also helps students with disabilities see themselves as equals with their neurotypical peers, which can combat any feelings of otherness or inadequacy. Inclusion fosters an all-around culture of respect, belonging, and acceptance of individual differences.
Students Achieve Higher
Wherever possible, MusicAbility strives to teach all students with the same curriculum as their peers. Any adaptations that are made are carefully chosen to be age-appropriate and maintain the dignity, capability, and independence of the student. When individuals with disabilities feel welcome, they become empowered to achieve all that they are capable of.
Why Choose Us?
By choosing MusicAbility, you are choosing to expose your student not only to the highest quality music education, but also to an experience that will help them grow into thoughtful, respectful, and accepting adults. For our adult students, by taking lessons with us you align yourself with a philosophy of equal access, social inclusion, and acceptance. Thank you to all the families and students who already support and believe in what we are doing, and here’s to a bright future of bringing the world a little closer through music.