... is dedicated to introducing music to all blind students regardless of age. Especially for blind children, the skills they learn in order to gain literacy in music, can form the foundation for most of their future academic achievements. And the college/professional levels of instruction will make a major contribution to leveling the playing field for the blind working musician. The music curriculum will include the following:
* Braille music reading,
ear training, and solfege.
* Training in acoustic instruments: piano, guitar, winds, strings, percussion
and voice.
* Arranging, orchestration, and conducting classes taught both traditionally
and with the aid of accessible computer recording applications.
* A complete course in piano tuning and repair.
* Computer Literacy including training in using screen reading software.
* Training in electronic synthesizers and computer music programs to provide
students with the requisite skills to create and compete in the contemporary
music industry.
* Recording/audio engineering courses.
* Orientation, mobility, movement and dance classes.
* Living Skills Classes.
* An intern program to train selected students to be assistants in the
classrooms.
* A world class library of Braille music books: classical, jazz, pop and
instructional.
* Public performances given on site, and at other venues.
* Interchange with sighted peers during special performance opportunities,
and specifically integrated classes.
* Field trips: Public concerts, music theatre, and trips to music and
radio station studios.
* Student Counseling. Bi-weekly meetings with counselor to evaluate student's
needs, problems and concerns.
* Parent Advocacy Workshops. Educating parents and families on how they
can advocate for their children vis a vis the public school system, state
rehab organizations, and regional centers.
* Teacher training workshops. These workshops are designed to educate
professional teachers in the special needs of blind students. The information
and skills provided will enable teachers to successfully integrate blind
music students into existing music classes.
Subjects taught include:
* Knowledge of Braille music resources, both in print and via the computer.
* Knowledge of adaptive computer software.
* Proprioceptive, posture, and movement awareness related to the student's
musical instrument and performance demeanor.