Inclusivity and Neurodivergence in Band - Dr. Erin Parkes founder of Lotus Centre for Special Music Education 

This online workshop explores some of the challenges that neurodivergent participants might face (including sensory processing and communication challenges) as well as strengths that they bring to the music learning experience. Practical strategies for creating an inclusive environment will be discussed with tools and activities provided.

Thanks to the SBA's partnership with the National Arts Centre, this special diversity session was led by Lotus Centre for Special Music Education founder, Dr. Erin Parkes.  The Lotus Centre is a registered charity committed to providing access to adapted music education programs for the special needs community.

Watch the Workshop Here 

Additional Resources:

Neurodivergent Session - McCord and Fitzgerald Musical Instruments.pdf

Neurodivergent session - ADHD Iceberg Infographic.jpg

Session Presentation slides:  SBA Presentation.pdf

Title:  Where the Prairies Meet the Pines

For: Grade 7-9 Bands

Length:  3 minutes  (recording link below)

The composition attempts to honour the gathering of not only two major rivers, but also those who have met there for centuries. 

Where the Prairies Meet the Pines is more than just a Junior High band composition. It is a labour of love inspired by the knowledge keepers, geography, peoples, culture and history of this region teeming with rivers, wildlife, forests and rolling hills.

Recording:  

Where the Prairies Meet the Pines.mp3

Special thanks to Ty for providing the added teacher and student resources located below.

Also a special thank you to Brent Ghiglione and the University of Regina Wind Ensemble for preparing a recording of the composition.

Where the Prairies Meet the Pines.mp3

Inspiration and Background - Where the Prairies Meet the Pines.pdf

Study Guide - Where the Prairies Meet the Pines.pdf

Composer's Statement - Where the Prairies Meet the Pines.pdf

Tyrone McKenzie

Ty received a Bachelor of Sacred Music degree from Canadian Bible College (now Ambrose University) in vocal performance. He also completed the Composition and Keyboard Performance programs at Grant MacEwan Community College (now MacEwan University), where he studied composition and arranging as well as jazz keyboard.

Ty and his wife Karen live in Saskatoon where Karen McKenzie is a director of bands for the SPSD.  

Ty loves to tell stories through music. Canadian stories. Prairie stories. Stories that highlight history and culture. Ty has a desire to make these stories accessible and fun while engaging students in the learning experience.

Endorsements & more information