“Playing” with music in the special school classroom. A music therapy approach tothe playful aspects of improvisation

Abstract

In special education it is common for children with severe disabilities to have limited or no access to necessary experiences of playful exchanges with their peers and/or adults. Musical improvisation can provide a means of expression which allows children, regardless of the severity of their disability, to be involved in a creative process and experience feelings of choice, initiative and control. This paper presents the experience of the author’s work as a music teacher in a special needs school for students with cerebral palsy and multiple disabilities. The author’s additional specialization in music therapy has enriched her work with students within the special needs school setting.

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