Creating an Inclusive Music Classroom: Adaptive Instruments for SEND

Creating an inclusive music classroom is essential in ensuring that all students, regardless of their abilities, can participate and thrive in music education. For students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), adaptive instruments offer a pathway to meaningful engagement with music, allowing them to express themselves creatively and enjoy the benefits of music-making.

Our range of inclusive and accessible instruments has been selected to showcase specialist products designed to help accommodate music learning for all people. These instruments feature ergonomic designs with visually clear layouts to help musicians of all abilities experience the joy of making music. Whether used in sensory development, classrooms or at home, our inclusive instruments promote accessibility and encourage musical exploration for all.

Here’s a look at some innovative instruments that can help make your music classroom more inclusive.

CMPSR Digital Instrument is a game-changer in adaptive music education. CMPSR turns any device (e.g. iPads, Android Tablets) into a simple-to-use inclusive instrument. It's similar to a piano but much simpler; to play notes and chords you simply move a velocity-sensitive joystick. With its always-in-key feature and built-in chord and scale engines, simply connect to a suitable device and play the sound of any instrument! Its versatility ensures that every student can engage with music in a way that suits their unique abilities.

Cosmo Excel is an excellent example of how technology can be leveraged to create an inclusive learning environment. This instrument consists of "smart" Cosmoid buttons that are visually appealing and an iPad app featuring 35+ highly motivating and intuitive activities designed by teachers and occupational, physical and speech & language therapists. Cosmo is versatile and can be used in a group setting, in the classroom, in an individual therapy session or at home.

Odd Ball is a unique instrument that combines music with physical activity, making it ideal for students who need more dynamic, movement-based learning experiences. Shaped like a ball, it connects to a mobile app and produces different sounds depending on how it is bounced, thrown or tapped. This instrument encourages physical engagement and can be a fun way to incorporate rhythm and beat exercises into the classroom.

Portability and ease of use make the 3rd Avenue Roll Up Soft Touch Drum Kit and Keyboard a perfect choice for inclusive classrooms. These instruments are extremely lightweight compared to traditional instruments and can be rolled up for easy storage, making them accessible for students with limited strength or mobility. The soft-touch surface is responsive to the lightest taps, ensuring that students of all ability levels can produce sound effortlessly. 

Percussion instruments like the A-Star Gathering Drum, Ocean Drum and Tongue Drum are invaluable in an inclusive music classroom. The A-Star Gathering Drum is a large, easy-to-play instrument that can accommodate multiple players, promoting group participation and a sense of community. The Ocean Drum creates soothing wave-like sounds, making it an excellent tool for sensory exploration. The Tongue Drum offers a mellow, melodic tone that is both relaxing and engaging, making it suitable for students who may be sensitive to louder sounds.

Integrating adaptive instruments into your music classroom is a powerful way to create an inclusive environment where all students can participate in and enjoy music education. Instruments like the CMPSR Digital Instrument, Cosmo Excel and Odd Ball provide diverse options to meet the needs of students with SEND. By embracing these tools, you’re not only enhancing your teaching practice but also making a meaningful impact on the lives of your students, empowering them to discover the joy of music.