Music & Neurodiversity: Unlocking potential for all learners in the classroom and one-to-one instrumental lessons

Traditional, notation-heavy music teaching can present significant barriers to neurodivergent students. However, a multi-sensory, systematic, and adaptive approach can unlock success for all learners—whether in a whole-class setting or a one-to-one instrumental lesson.

Drawing directly from her latest insights regarding post-pandemic learning gaps, classroom anxiety, and the need to rebuild notation literacy through imitation and aural focus, Karen Marshall will demonstrate how to navigate modern attention hurdles. This session bridges the gap between classroom adaptive teaching and instrumental pedagogy. Attendees will explore how to identify individual student strengths, balancing structured routines with the flexibility required to reduce anxiety and cultivate deep musical focus.

Karen will share practical, realistic advice rooted in inclusive pedagogies from her 30-year teaching career. You will leave with a versatile toolkit of adaptable strategies—including creative pedagogy, pattern-based learning, and contextual theory—to create an accessible learning environment where every neurodivergent student can thrive.