Electric Umbrella Presents 'No Such Thing as Normal'
Co-led by professional and learning disabled musicians, music will enable expression, connection and joy in this vibrant, interactive session. Expect singing, signing, adapted instruments and an introduction to free online resources.
What key themes will be discussed?
- The holistic power of music to unite and build confidence
- Creatively engaging and encouraging learning disabled and neurodiverse people
- Incorporating alternative means of communication and musical instruments to encourage inclusive practice
- Using music to enhance other areas of the curriculum
What are the learning outcomes and key takeaways?
- Learn how to facilitate a creative environment where every person is welcome, valued and engaged.
- Explore music as a powerful form of communication and expression.
- Leave with more information on free resources including interactive assemblies and supplementary PSHE/RSE resources.
This session will be of particular interest to:
- Those looking to join an interactive session in a relaxed and creative atmosphere to learn about how to engage learning disabled and neurodiverse people in music education.
Interactions
- Audience participation
- Audience Q&A
Speakers
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Tom Billington
Electric Umbrella
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Claire Boulter
Electric Umbrella
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Finn Holroyd
Electric Umbrella
Tom Billington
Electric Umbrella
Tom Billington is Co-Founder and Artistic Director of Electric Umbrella, a singer, songwriter, guitar player, stilt walker and ‘yes’ man. His rich and varied career has seen him perform all over the world alongside bands and artists such as Razorlight, The Killers, Depeche Mode and countless others.
Tom met Mel Boda (Co-Founder and CEO of Electric Umbrella) working on a project for a local council in 2012, having already spent 5 years working in SEND schools and working with learning disabled people in Milton Keynes. Electric Umbrella grew out of a mutual passion for ‘going the extra mile’ to represent the learning disabled community as the ‘total rockstars they are’.
Claire Boulter
Electric Umbrella
Having studied at the University of Birmingham and Trinity Laban, Claire Boulter performed internationally as a classical singer whilst working extensively within creative arts education. As Head of Education for Electric Umbrella, Claire has overseen the expansion and development of their programme for Mainstream and SEND schools. Passionate about the holistic power of music to unite people, foster belonging, and bring about societal change, Claire believes that every person should have the opportunity to experience the joy of Electric Umbrella.
Finn Holroyd
Electric Umbrella
Finn Holroyd is a performer and creative who works with Electric Umbrella. He loves Electric Umbrella because it’s a community that allows him to be himself and join in. For Finn, it’s a place where everyone is welcome, everyone belongs, and music brings people together.
