'Making Music with Special Children' Event

It was great to have the opportunity today to demonstrate the Apollo Ensemble to participants of the 'Making Music with Special Children' course, organised by Jessie's Fund.

Lesley provided some examples of how technology can be used as a musical instrument to enable children to participate in music making.  I was able to show the benefits of the Apollo wireless sensors, especially the Press and Dice.

Thanks to all on the course for a lovely welcome.

Music & Inclusivity Conference

Apollo were at the 'Music & Inclusivity' Conference at York St John University today, showing the Apollo Ensemble. We were joined by Andrew Cleaton, who has recently been interviewing people for our new series of case studies.

The Ensemble was also being showcased in a workshop run by Accessible Arts and Media.

Everyone a music maker

Today I was at a conference at the National Centre for Early Music in York, aimed at making music in early years settings. I helped Andrew Cleaton present a talk on the use of music technology, covering both the pros and cons.

The talk concluded with a look at the Apollo Ensemble equipment, featuring the Hub together with a number of wireless sensors and switches. Particularly popular with the audience was the EnsembleDice, which was used to trigger animal sounds and images.

You can see more about the conference and the other interesting talks at: www.ncem.co.uk/earlyyears

International Conference - Music Technology: Solutions to Challenges

Apollo was happy to support and exhibit at this recent conference held at the Royal Hospital for Neuro-disability in London. The two days attracted a wide range of people from across the globe, all keen to share ideas and experience.

I was also on the organising committee for the event and was pleased to help with some of the early preperations. Congratulations should go to Dr Wendy Magee and Phillipa Denning for such a smoothly run and informative event.

It was particuarly interesting to get feedback from music therapists about their expectations for technology and especially encouraging that so many were interested in the Apollo Ensemble.