Music for People With Disabilities

Music-making is the most human of experiences. It is a natural tool of expression that requires no extraordinary talent to experience and enjoy. For those with disabilities, being immersed in a music enrichment class is a joyful and potentially transformative experience. The Lawrence Community Music School offers music enrichment classes that are designed to facilitate socialization and communication, motivate interaction, improve social skills, and—most importantly—provide students the opportunity to have fun through the use of different music techniques and activities. Please email sara@expressivetherapies.net with specific questions about the curriculum or with information about a participant's needs.

The Community Music School is an IRIS program service provider.

Winter 2025: 10-Week Session

• Instructor: Sara Devine
• Location: Expressive Therapies 
• Cost: $170 + $19 annual registration fee

Schedule: weekly, 30-Minute Classes

• Mondays: Jan. 13, 20, 27, Feb. 3, 24, March 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 (no class Feb. 10 & 17) 
  • 5:00-5:30 p.m. - 19+ years old
  • 5:30-6:00 p.m. - 13-18 years old
  • 6:00-6:30 p.m. - 5-12 years

Classes

• Music Enrichment for Youth with Disabilities (Age 5–⁠18)

  • Classes offer children with disabilities the opportunity to participate in musical activities that focus on interaction and socialization skills as well as fine and gross motor skills. Finger plays, songs, playing instruments, and movement enhance your child’s development with special attention to individual needs. Classes are grouped by age.
     

• Music Enrichment for Adults with Disabilities (Age 19 and Older)

  • Adults with disabilities often seek an identity and validation; one of the ways to accomplish this is through musical expression. Classes for individuals 19 years of age and older provide opportunities for socialization, interaction and the use of music for self-expression. Through the use of singing, playing different instruments, movement to music, and working together as a group ensemble, participants gain confidence, improve self-esteem, and have fun utilizing music as the tool.