AIR - My Music Ability: Inclusive Composing
With Drake Music Scotland | 22-25 November 2023
From 22 to 25 November 2023, the AIR project My Music Ability: Inclusive Composing took place at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam. This was the third AIR project in the My Music Ability series, which focuses on inclusive music making, and the second with the renowned organization Drake Music Scotland as a guest.
My Music Ability: Inclusive Composing in the Sweelinck Hall with the students, musicians from Friends@Work and My Breath My Music, and the guest lecturers from Drake Music Scotland. Photo: Reinout Bos
Musicians from Friends@Work with facilitator. Photo: Reinout Bos
The string players in action. Photo: Thomas Lenden
Previous Projects
The first AIR (Artist in Residence) My Music Ability, in 2018, focused on inclusion in music education through technology. During this AIR, students designed an inclusive instrument using touch boards and simple electronics with Drake Music (London). My Music Ability 2 marked the first time Drake Music Scotland was a guest. This time, the focus was on making music in an inclusive ensemble. Students were introduced to music pedagogical strategies that can be used in inclusive ensembles. Read more about the My Music Ability projects from 2018 and 2021.
My Music Ability: Inclusive Composing
This third AIR My Music Ability project, Inclusive Composing, was a joint initiative of the Music Teacher and Composition programs, and the Arts Education and Music research groups. The focus of this project was on composing for and with inclusive ensembles.
Pete Sparkes (artistic director) and Ali Gillies (associate musician) from Drake Music Scotland conducted a four-day workshop program at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam. Additionally, Drake composer Clare Johnsten gave an online presentation during the program.
Karin van Dijk (right) from the My Breath My Music Foundation teaches Jadey to play the Magic Flute. Photo: Reinout Bos
The inclusive ensemble in action. Photo: Thomas Lenden
Presentation of My Music Ability: Inclusive Composing in the CvA Blue Stage. Photo: Thomas Lenden
Publications
Bremmer, M. (2023). Encountering disability in music: Exploring perceptions on inclusive music education in higher music education. Research Studies in Music Education.
Click here to read the final report and see the conference recap below.