technology
music production tool that allows users to break away from making music via the computer screen. All features of the Able- ton Live software are available directly from the Push device. Additionally, art- ists, producers and students are truly able to perform with Push as an instrument. It has too many features to list in this article; however, one of the most powerful and exciting is the ability to “lock in” nearly any mode and key. This takes away the fear of “wrong notes,” which can have such a positive impact for music makers of all ages and abilities. Finally, the RGB trigger pads can be customized to different colors and light up when touched. Ableton right now has launched round two of its Push Initiative, which links schools in need with free software and hardware. More information on the Push Initiative can be found at
https://www.ableton.com/ en/push-trade-in/.
Dato Duo
www.dato.mu Dato Duo is a simplified synthesizer for kids (and adults) of all ages. According to its website, there’s also no wrong way to use the device, so even the youngest noise makers can get started with ease. And it doesn’t hurt that Duo sounds pretty good either. Duo itself is a two-panel synth that features an eight-step sequencer on one
side with the sound controls and effects on the other. On a recent trip I had a chance to talk with the Dutch based company, see how cool these little synths are, and the great potential they have to help all students make music.
Skoog Music
http://skoogmusic.com/education/ Skoog is an instrument that is truly inclu- sive. For many people with special needs one of the greatest barriers to making music is the dexterity required to play a more traditional musical instrument. Skoog removes that barrier. Since 2010 Skoog has been helping kids with special needs find their inner musician. In addition to being physically accessible, Skoog’s simple design enables those with learning difficulties to make and play music with peers without the need to learn traditional music notation or play a traditional instru- ment. Finally, Skoog is equipped with ad- justable sensitivity to suit a wide range of physical abilities. The multi-dimensional tactile technology opens up a variety of playing options for kids.
Beamz
http://www.thebeamz.com/ Beamz Interactive Music System is uni- versally designed, making it accessible to students of all learning and physical
needs. Beamz versatility is incredible. You can work on cause and effect, direc- tionality, fine and gross motor skills, as well as many other uses. The extensive music library includes songs from all genre types and introduces your learners to instruments and music styles they may not discover independently. According to its website, songs are created in such a way that all, regardless of ability sound great, the first time and every time. Beamz also goes beyond triggering sound samples. It has the capability to act as a live looper, giving the user the ability to layer sounds on top of one another.
Technology certainly is not the answer for everything in music education. However, the few items showcased in this article are making positive impacts for children of all ages, backgrounds and levels of ability. Getting our students, all of them, more involved with music creation is one way that we as music educators can help create a more dynamic, multifaceted and inclusive music class for all.
Michael Hayden is director of orchestras at Wauwatosa East High School. Email:
michayden@gmail.com
Wisconsin School Musician
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