Experiencing music improves wellbeing and develops creativity and confidence. In partnership with SEND leads we aim to make our programmes more inclusive and accessible to all pupils, whatever their abilities or needs.
Our aim is to break down the barriers to orchestral music and provide equal opportunities for all
We can work with your school to provide the most accessible experience by (for example)
We are developing many ways of working with schools including adapting workshops and concerts to children’s needs. Some of our most recent work has been with Chailey Heritage in East Sussex who invited us to come to their school.
Kidenza pianist and Director Stevie Higgins said it was “One of my best days as a musician ever…” and Claire Lambert, Managing Director and Founder confirmed “we will all remember this day for the rest of our lives”
Accessibility to concert venues or mainstream schools would have been impossible for some of the children at Chailey. After meeting the teachers, Kidenza worked with the school to create an ‘open orchestra’ with gaps between the musicians. This meant that children were able to get within the orchestra, experiencing sound, even when unable to hear or see. Carers were able to respond to the needs of each individual child; some felt the vibrations, some held an instrument and some were able to play.
Joe had some wonderful help in the percussion section and commented “It was a particularly unique and special day and I feel both lucky and proud to have taken part”
Resonance boards were placed on the floor for pupils and those in wheelchairs or on beds were able to come into this mobile audience and enjoy the concert with family and friends. Steve Dummer, Kidenza conductor said “Every Kidenza event is special but today was something else. I saw a little boy, who was deaf and blind, on the boards that were laid out and every time the music started, he shook the rattle he was holding very gently onto his face and stopped when the music stopped. It’s a real honour to play there and I hope we do many more.”
After the performance Ollie Dixon, a Chailey Hertiage teacher, said “You are the talk of the whole of Chailey and I think you will be for a considerable amount of time.”
Kidenza are now planning another three concerts at Chailey Heritage plus bespoke workshops with their individual musicians for all fourteen classes.
Get in touch to find out how we can work with your school.
