Music Without Limitation | Positive News Around The World
Kodi Lee - Against All Odds Cover
Whether it’s through music therapy, dancing or playing an instrument, music is one of the best ways to express ourselves and show it to the world! We have gathered some incredible videos of amazing musicians with physical disabilities who prove that there’s no limitations when doing what you love.
Source: Youtube California Rock News, Mark Goffeney guitar solo
Music education without limitation!
The Digital Orchestra for the disabled youth at The Queen’s Hall uses a music software called Notion, which allows musicians to get control of music sheets which play specific notes each time they touch a special pad.
Read also: Meet With Jacques, Music Student in Rwanda
Thanks to the sensory control, students can move the score in a safe way that makes them part of the orchestra. No doubt that technology has made a way for all students to express their passion for music without the technical limitations; a great example that music is by and for everyone!
Source: Youtube, Drake Music Scotland
Music therapy: Readjustment doesn’t have to be a solo
What challenges have you had to overcome when learning something new?
Source: Youtube, National Council of Social Service “Fire In The Rain” music video.
Disability as a contributor, not a barrier.
Did you know? According to the CDC, about 26% of the population in the United States has some type of disability.
Music therapy: Pune-based doctors’ orchestra performs for right causes.
In the words of orchestra violinist Gaelynn Lea: “When you start to put disability culture out in the world, celebrate it, and actually take it seriously, we can start to dismantle stereotypes and also recognize ourselves in the music.”
GaelynnGaelynn is a musician and public speaker for the accessibility for disabled people in arts. She has appeared at major music festivals including SXSW and the Winnipeg Folk Festival, she also debuted in opening acts for numerous bands using her music to advocate for disabled people and promote positive social change.
From classy to jazzy, Thomas Quasthoff shows us it’s never too late to explore new horizons and make it shine!
“I wanted to be accepted as an artist who was disabled, not seen as a disabled person who was an artist”
The classical and opera music star, Thomas Quasthoff is also an inspiration for young artists who wish to start their career as a classical interpreter. Born disabled due to the effects of Thalidomide, Thomas wanted no allowances made for his disability. “I was educated like this,” he explains.“My parents and my brother never treated me like a disabled person. My brother’s friends were my friends. I was always part of a normal family life.”
Thomas Quasthoff: Schubert “Der Leiermann”
Thomas Quasthoff - Georgia On My Mind
Wanna try out or improve your musical abilities? Check out our PFC Shop and discover exclusive instruments.
Did you know that some of your favorite musicians of all time also found arts and music a challenge in the beginning of their careers? Here are some examples of the most famous musicians you might not know had physical disabilities:
Rick Allen, playing a drum solo
Candy Man Blues - Blind Boy Paxton
Stevie Wonder, Live in London 2008
The ambassador of soul, Ellis Hall performing “Dixie Chicken” along with Little Feat and the PFC Band
Ray Charles performing “Hit The Road Jack” live on ABC, 1961
Remember that, what we may consider flaws or imperfections, others may see it as strengths and find the inspiration to keep on reaching what we wish to achieve.
The Shalva Band - A Million Dreams Cover
“Cause every night I lie in bed, the brightest colors fill my head, a million dreams are keeping me awake…”
Lyrics from The Greatest Showman, 2017
Celebrate musical diversity with us in all forms!
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One Love,
Playing For Change
