Composer Ludwig Beethoven taught himself special techniques to build his masterpieces once he lost his hearing.
These same techniques are being used at Furlong Park School for Deaf Children to make music accessible to its 72 students, who have diverse hearing impairments.
Musica Viva teachers Karen Kyriakou and Jason Day are working with the students, who have a huge advantage over the famous composer – improvements in cochlear implants and FM receivers have opened up a new range of sensory experience for deaf children.
School principal Anne-Marie Crivelli said introducing music seemed the next logical step for teachers who already use a number of innovative methods to help students.
“Most of the musical experience is tactile; they feel the music through the instrument itself or through the floor,” she said.
“Some children also have a level of hearing where they can hear above a certain decibel, so some are able to be guided by the sound.
“Music is that missing link; as children get older they appreciate it for its calming effect.”
Ms Crivelli said Musica Viva’s teachers are part of an In Schools program and are experienced in teaching children with disabilities.
Classes are held at the Furlong Park school every Friday, with a variety of instruments learned. A school concert is planned for November.
