Choral singing has the power to bring people together, creating a shared musical experience where every voice can contribute. But how can conductors and teachers adapt their rehearsal practices so that children with diverse learning needs can participate meaningfully and experience musical success?
Drawing on her extensive work with children with Special Educational Needs (SEN), including the Voices of Singapore Starlight Programme, Singaporean music educator and choral conductor Tham Pei Wen explores practical strategies for creating inclusive and musically engaging choir rehearsals.
Grounded in Kodály-informed pedagogy and a multisensory approach to music learning, the workshop will explore how singing, movement, visual supports, musical games and carefully sequenced activities can be used to support different learners. Participants will consider how to break down complex musical skills, provide appropriate scaffolding, and adapt rehearsal strategies while maintaining meaningful musical goals and expectations.
Through practical demonstrations and examples from inclusive choral settings, Pei Wen will invite educators to rethink what is possible when we remove barriers to participation. The session aims to equip conductors and teachers with practical tools to create choir communities where diverse learners can develop their musicianship, confidence and joy in singing together.
