Participatory music making for adults with a learning disability
​
I facilitate group making sessions with adults with learning disabilities in day centres, and residential settings. These sessions are usually quite lively and energetic and include a wide range of musical activities that are tailored to the physical and cognitive needs of the individuals in the group. As always, I work in close partnership with the staff members to ensure I am fully briefed on these needs.
​
​
How we connect
​
In my work with adults with learning disabilities I have found that movement and dance are very popular activities. I will include a range of different musical activities that are suitable and appropriate for the where the participants are at both physically and mentally.
Sessions will include a gentle physical warm-up of light stretches and breathing exercises. We will sing a welcome song together and play some percussion instruments. There is always space for creative improvisation - leaving space in the music is so important, so participants have the opportunity to create something in the moment, completely free-flow. We may write a song over consecutive weeks or learn a round together. If the group requests it we may listen to a piece of recorded music and do some dancing.
Making music together on the GOLD program (Growing Older with Learning Disabilities), part of Guildcare
​
"Amy is very flexible in her approach and will adjust the session to the needs and wishes of the group.
We use a wide range of musical instruments and Amy makes sure that she engages with each member of the group during the session.”
Karen Sellors, Guildcare
