“… when my child performed his song on stage my emotions were overwhelming. I was so proud of his wonderful achievement”
musicOK is a project that enables special needs children with a natural musical talent the opportunity to develop this, giving them an on-going skill throughout their lives as well as increasing their self confidence and ability for social interaction. Through a musical continuity, it also helps them better come to terms with transitional stages in their lives.
Music therapy does not require any musical skill, but the children who participate in musicOK have responded in such a positive manner to the work that a real musical ability has materialised. All of the children involved have some kind of special needs – predominantly autism, learning disabilities and other physical disabilities which present obstacles for them in their development potential.
Through the power of music and their talented gift, the children gain dramatically in self confidence, social interaction, communication and learning focus outside of their sessions. Their musical talents also grow and they develop a strong bond with their art which will serve as a continuity throughout their lives and the different transitions they will have to face in what could be an uncertain future. Through learning music, both in a structured way and in developing improvisation, the children gain an extra skill. They will also have a permanent and real friend throughout the rest of their lives, irrespective of what the future may hold for them.
musicOK aims to produce two public performances each year in which the group members can participate and increase their confidence.
