What is the difference between regular lessons and adaptive lessons?
The difference between regular and adaptive lessons mirrors the differences between music education and music therapy. In regular lessons, students learn to play an instrument for the sake of learning music. The end goal is often to play in a recital. Adaptive lessons can refer to many things. First, the materials can be adapted – instruments and mallets can be adapted for clients with physical impairments, and other adaptations such as wheelchair stands or other specialty aides can be used. Second, methods can be adapted. If a child cannot read music on a staff, music can be adapted to incorporate numbers, letters, or colors. Third, adaptive lessons often focus on different goals, including increasing attention span, addressing academic concepts, or improving fine motor skills. Students in adaptive lessons can also participate in recitals to improve self esteem and show off their new skills.
