MUSIC
Brooklyn-Queens Conservatory of Music, Brooklyn
Aut/Blind/Deaf/Dev/Phys; ages 18 mos. and up
Think your kid might have a knack for piano, voice or guitar? Children of all ages and disabilities come here for therapeutic lessons and music therapy, which is offered individually and in groups. Charlotte Burke, a 14-year-old from Park Slope who has expressive language and mental coordination disorders, has been coming to the conservatory for four years. “Last year was her first time participating in the annual talent show, but she was too nervous to go up,” says Melinda Burke, Charlotte’s mom. “This year, Kate, her therapist from the conservatory, worked with her on it, and she actually got up and sang a solo!” $415 for a 15-week group session; $665–$1,395 for a 17-week duo or one-on-one session; limited financial aid available. 58 Seventh Ave between Lincoln and St. Johns Pls, Park Slope (718-622-3300, bqcm.org)
Lighthouse International Music School, Midtown East
Blind; ages 5 to 17
Visually impaired children who are enrolled in this Saturday program spend the day in music classes like chorus and percussion. In the cool technology course, students use a computer to do sequencing, composition and arrangements. Those learning to play a particular instrument get private lessons from professional musicians. “The Lighthouse is a real music school where kids truly learn music,” says Anthony Riala of Staten Island. His ten-year-old daughter, Julianna, who was born blind, is learning to play the piano, among other things. “Julianna is actually learning to play on the same level a typical kid would,” he adds, “as opposed to being in a music therapy class.” $314 for 16 weeks of one-on-one lessons. 111 E 59th St between Lexington and Park Aves (212-821-9200, lighthouse.org)
Nordoff-Robbins Center for Music Therapy, Greenwich Village
Aut/Blind/Deaf/Dev/Phys; all ages
Couldn’t get your tune-loving tot to sit through a Music Together class? Music therapy might be a better option. The one-on-one and group sessions here are mostly improvisational. Youngsters jam on an array of instruments, many of which require little training (think maracas and bongos). $80 for an individual session; $50 for a group session; discounts available. New York University, 82 Washington Sq East at Washington Pl (212-998-5151, steinhardt.nyu.edu/music/nordoff)
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thank you sow much, jaiden mom-congenital diapramatic hernia
I live in Dutchess County in Wappingers Falls where can I find activities for my special need child?
I think this is a GREAT article! I am the program coordinator for a nonprofit called KEEN New York (www.KEENnewyork.org) and we provide a free service to disabled children also. Every other week we play games, have dance parties, even play make believe. I love that there are so many organizations out there! I will definitely be referring our children to some of these programs.
Hey Jana, loved the article, keep up the fight.! Autumn's Mom - Sherron