Discover Music

Playing in a band is just fun and an ideal way of connecting with those with similar interests. Making music socially enriches one's life.

At Ability Music we believe that everyone should have an opportunity to play a musical instrument or sing in a choir. In addition to teaching music we invent adaptive technology to help those previously denied the opportunity to make and create music. We believe that "music self-played is happiness self-made."

With rare exception every musical instrument requires the use of fingers. For those lacking in fine motor skills we provide gentle, caring and careful instruction to enable all to be full participants.


RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

Over the years, Ability Music has partnered with a number of highly skilled inventors. The development of assistive equipment has also benefited from working with the Photonics Department at Algonquin College.

This award-winning collaboration has provided research and innovation that continues to enable participants musically.

The documentary "Ability Music" directed by David Wei, which can be viewed on Youtube, details the creation and evolution of this initiative.


TEACHING STAFF

Our teachers inspire their students. They are caring, thought-provoking, challenging and exciting. The majority are professional musicians or graduates of Algonquin College's Developmental Service Worker Program.

As educator's they believe that patience is the greatest gift that they can give. They are always enthusiastic and take pride in helping students reach their personal goals.


EVENTS

Throughout the year, recitals and performances are scheduled at the Nepean Creative Arts Centre for family and friends. We also offer clinics, jams and workshops designed to help special needs educators incorporate Ability Music inventions and concepts into their curriculum.


FACILITIES

The Ability Music Studio is located in the City of Ottawa funded Nepean Creative Arts Centre.

The Centre has a total space capacity of 31,000 square feet and features four dance studios, a theatre rehearsal studio with a fully equipped set construction workshop, 10 individual and 3 group music studios and 9 individual artists' studios.

Ability Music offers private and group lessons on and off site. Private lessons are held in a studio custom equipped with state-of-the-art electronic drums, percussion controllers and 24 Channel Digital Recording equipment. An impressive collection of acoustic drum kits and hand percussive instruments are also available.
We can accommodate up to 60 people for drum circles.


MUSIC ABILITY - CHILD

Children of all abilities will create music using adaptive electronic devices, hand percussion instruments and drums. Children with significant disabilities are encouraged to participate. Ensemble playing, composing and recording are all components of this program.

Nepean Creative Arts Centre - 613-596-5783
Course Code: 957575


MUSIC ABILITY - ADULT

Adults with developmental disabilities will create music using adaptive electronic devices, hand percussion instruments and drums. Adults with significant disabilities are encouraged to participate. Ensemble playing, performing and recording are all components of this program.

Nepean Creative Arts Centre - 613-596-5783
Course Code: 957576


HAND DRUMMING - PARENT AND CHILD

Learn the joy of music through hand drumming. Join our drum circle and learn traditional African and Latin rhythms on djembes, congas, timbales, and more! No musical training required.

Nepean Creative Arts Centre - 613-596-5783


LESSON FEES

The first lesson is always free.

All private lessons are 1-2 half hour sessions
Fees: $25 per 30 minute lesson
Guitar Drums
Bass Piano
Violin Vocals

Group lessons - 3 or more
Fees: $15 per person
30 minute class

Ability Music is qualified to teach RCM, Canada Conservatory, Suzuki and other methods.

Ability Music - 613-355-0640


SCHOLARSHIPS, BURSARIES AND GRANTS

If a student is not able to afford music lessons, Ability Music will cover the costs.
NO student will be turned away.


CONTACT INFORMATION

Ability Music
The Nepean Creative Arts Centre
35 Stafford Road
Ottawa, ON

613-355-0640