World renowned musical prodigy at Sligo seminar

World renowned musical prodigy, Derek Paravicini, will help explore the effects of music on people with autism at a special seminar in Sligo next weekend, December 2nd and 3rd.

Paravicini, an autistic and blind pianist who has gained worldwide attention for his talents and who has even been the subject of a Ted Talk, will be joined by his teacher, Adam Ockelford.

The seminar will see Music Generation Sligo ( MSG) and the Centre for Special Education Needs, Inclusion and Diversity ( CSENID) at St. Angela’s College, launch the findings of a research they carried out over 17 months in which they examined the delivery of music programmes to children and young people with autism.

Rhona McGrath, MSG Co- Ordinator, said: “We are delighted to combine the work of practitioners in special educational needs and in music education to explore and expand the possibilities for music education. Research began in June last year and included investigating ways to include people with autism in music. A programme was implemented in two autism classes by three MSG tutors, who were then mentored by researchers for ten weeks.

Findings indicate that after training, tutors were knowledgeable about autism and willing to include pupils with autism in MGS programmes.

They were, however, nervous of their abilities to do this successfully, but when supported in implementing an adapted music programme they became confident.

Ailbhe O’Halloran of CSENID said: “David is many things: an incredible piano player, a blind man, an excited talker, a musical savant, and a 30- something with severe autism. Together with his teacher, Adam Ockelford, we will get a fascinating peek into how he understands music.”

The Con Tutti Music Education and Autism Seminar takes place next Friday and Saturday at Áras Michael, St. Angela’s College from 1 p. m. There is also an informal evening of music and food at The Model. Tickets for this event cost 20 euro and the seminar is free.