Registration for all 2012 JBMT SERVICES AND PROGRAMS (inclusive choir, drum circles, online special for music therapy and adapted music lessons)
In another time and place (Saskatchewan, Canada) an opportunity for persons with disabilities to reach their performance dreams has been underway under the talented direction of Raymond Marcotte.
At 15, Raymond led the student council where he had opportunity to interact with the student and general community at large on a regular basis. While researching local charities for his school to support, he came across research papers indicating that music could aid children with autism.
As an accomplished musician with experience teaching music to underprivileged children, Raymond set out to translate his passion for music and knowledge into a program for these children. “I wanted to teach those who wouldn’t normally have a chance to learn and enjoy music.” stated Raymond.
Raymond approached Saskatoon’s Autism Services with his idea – to create a volunteer-based music instruction program for children aged 3 to 18. The Music Sensory Awakening Program now in its fifth year, has revealed some remarkable results. Each May, the program’s students perform musical pieces to an audience of several hundred at an annual benefit concert. Both musical and behavioural accomplishments are highlighted to the surprise and delight of their families and friends.
Providing a person with disabilities the chance to perform contributes to the self – esteem of the performer. The barriers that many diseases and disorders seem to present to our general community are melted away in music’s soothing and familiar messages. Music is a force we all recognize and can relate to. I have witnessed performers who could not speak, communicate in the language of music, reaching far into the audience and sharing a piece of themselves – for some for the very first time.
Music highlights the possible. Music highlights the potential. Music highlights the person.
The process of learning and teaching is not easy. Coming up with each person’s unique cues for best outcomes takes patience and often many weeks of trial and error. The final performance requires much courage on everyone’s part. The end result – priceless.
If you are a teen or young adult with disabilities bring your siblings and friends or meet new friends at our NEW COMMUNITY CHOIR!
Registration for all 2012 JBMT SERVICES AND PROGRAMS (inclusive choir, drum circles, online special for music therapy and adapted music lessons)