Following the launch of our new Associate model last year, established to strengthen and build on the impact of our Interactive Music-Making programme, we are delighted to continue working with Nordoff and Robbins for this year’s programme delivery.

We are grateful to Nordoff and Robbins for introducing us to Music Therapist Ellie Fletcher and supporting her contribution to our teaching during this year’s training. Particular thanks to Sandra Schembri and David Robinson from Nordoff and Robbins.

Harriet Crawford, Nordoff and Robbins Music Therapist and former Guest Tutor of the Interactive Music-Making programme, shares why music is such an important part of children’s early development opportunities:

Music-making with babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers supports their development in all areas: emotional, social and communication, and physical. Between ages 0 and 4, children need to communicate and to play in a loving, happy environment. Rocking or moving together to music with a baby, singing nursery rhymes with a toddler, sharing and exploring first instruments like drums and xylophones with pre-schoolers – these are just a few examples of how parents and carers can use music. Music can relax and reassure a child, and also can motivate and inspire. Music-making together with a primary carer fosters wellbeing and happiness and supports the bond between child and carer.

Harriet Crawford, Nordoff and Robbins Music Therapist

Nordoff and Robbins is the UK’s largest music therapy charity, with a unique approach shaped by more than 60 years of practice.

Through the power of music, it breaks through the barriers caused by life-limiting illness, disability and social isolation. The charity does this through providing music therapy to people across the UK, whilst also training the music therapists of the future and funding research to measure and improve the impact of its work.

Music therapy is the act of supporting people to connect and communicate through music who otherwise are unable to; such as those living with autism to dementia, learning difficulties to brain injuries, life-limiting illnesses to mental health issues, grief and trauma. Nordoff and Robbins music therapists use the power of music to create space for people to express themselves and find connection in society.

From adults with dementia reconnecting with their family, to children with autism finding their voice, Nordoff and Robbins believes that everyone who needs it should have access to music therapy, because it can, quite simply, transform people’s lives.

Applications for the 2023-24 Interactive Music-Making programme are now open, including 7 free ‘Award’ places available to Early Years settings.

Click below to find out more about Interactive Music-Making and full application details. Application deadline: Friday 8th September 2023.