The Applied Music Studio: Teaching Students With Special Needs

With recent advances in technology, it is essential that music educators become knowledgeable of various software programs that could assist in the teaching of students with special needs in applied music lessons. Computer software music programs can be categorized into six areas: listening, transcribing, tuning, developing a steady tempo, accompanying and recording. When listening to music to be learned in the applied lesson, two applications that could assist special needs students are Spotify and YouTube. When transcribing music, Anytune and Tempo SlowMo are two programs that could assist students with transcription. Before beginning a lesson, it is necessary that students tune their instrument. InsTuner is an application that allows performers to chromatically tune any instrument. During a performance, it is essential that students keep a steady tempo. Pro Metronome is a software program that assists in developing this skill. When special needs students are learning their repertoire, Smart Music and Band in a Box are two popular software programs that will accompany them. When recording a performance, Audacity and Garageband are two software programs that will allow students to make a quality recording. Incorporating computer technology into the teaching of applied lessons allows students with special needs to progress at a faster rate and makes learning more exciting and enjoyable. With so many advances in technology occurring every day, applied music teachers should take full advantage of new software applications when teaching students with special needs so maximum learning can take place.