Adapted Music Lessons

Many children with learning differences show an interest in learning an instrument but are not able to benefit from the structure and expectations of traditional music lessons. In these cases, we recommend having your student try the individualized approach of adapted music lessons. 

​Adapted lessons are designed to meet the needs of those who learn differently, whether due to a diagnosis such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, Auditory Processing Disorder, anxiety, ADHD, or those who need extra help finding their voice. Adapted lessons can help your child to come out of their shell or to feel more comfortable when trying something new.  

IsoRhythms specializes in adapting instructional methods based on the child's strengths and learning style, offering instruction on piano, guitar, and ukulele. Lessons are offered virtually or in person at our clinic in Pacific Grove.
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 Examples of adapted techniques:
  • color/letter/number coding rather than using complex musical notation
  • alternate or simplified tuning for guitar
  • use of chord buddy or chord barre for guitar
  • enlarged or simplified music to minimize distraction
  • highlighting music to aid with visual tracking
  • use of a picture schedule or checklist to structure the session and reduce frustration
  • focus on preferred songs and music genres to increase motivation
  • opportunities for sensory breaks or to engage in preferred music activities between more difficult musical tasks (singing, playing instruments, reading a singable story)
​FAQ'S
How are adapted music lessons different from music therapy sessions?
Adaptive music lessons focus on musical goals and learning how to play an instrument, while music therapy sessions focus on using music interventions to address improving non-musical goals (communication, motor skills, etc.). Beginning adaptive music lessons with a music therapist can often be the first step a student needs to successfully start a lifetime of musical learning. 

What instruments can my child learn through adapted music lessons?
IsoRhythms currently offers adapted music lessons on the guitar, piano, and ukulele.

Will we be expected to provide our own instrument?
As the goal of an adapted music lesson is to learn how to play an instrument, being able to interact with and play the instrument during the week outside of the lesson is important to the student's ability to learn. Your music therapist will be available to make instrument recommendations if you do not already own the instrument your child is hoping to learn.
What are the benefits of music lessons?
  • Raised self esteem
  • Increased ability to complete tasks
  • A more positive mood
  • Improved eye/hand coordination
  • Improved fine motor planning​

  • Improved ocular motor skills
  • Improved auditory processing
  • Hand stabilization/Finger isolation
  • Better posture/Shoulder strength
  • Improved sensory tolerance