Rhythm, Melody and Belonging – An Inclusive Workshop for Adults
Rhythm, Melody and Belonging is a creative all-day music workshop for neuro-divergent adults, exploring sound across a range of different instruments.
Description
During this one day workshop, participants will have the opportunity to experiment with the fundamental elements of music – beat, rhythms, melody, and harmony. Through active music making in a group setting, there will be lots of opportunity to explore, create and experience with various types of instruments, and melodies to create group songs.
This course is an opportunity for all to express themselves creatively in a safe and imaginative space. No previous musical experience is needed.
Most importantly, this workshop is about encouraging creativity, building community, and giving participants a space to express themselves through music. The focus is on exploration, enjoyment, and discovering what each person can create in a safe and supportive space. Songs that the group have explored and created throughout this one day workshop will be performed at the end of the day, giving participants the chance to share the music that they have created together, to a supportive environment with friends and family.
To ensure accessibility and comfort during the course, we would ask any potential participants to please fill out this form before booking:
Learning Outcomes:
- Explore music-making through using various drums, and melody instruments.
- Create songs through learning about beat and pulse, rhythm, melody and chords.
- Express yourself through music, in a safe and supported inclusive space.
Explore - Experiment - Create!
Session 1 (11.00 - 11.45 AM)
This introductory session introduces participants to the building blocks of music in a fun and accessible way. Participants will explore rhythm, melody, and chords through different activities. Everyone can take part in a way that feels comfortable to them, whether by playing, listening, or making choices. Together, the group will choose different sounds such as mood, tempo, and chords, and create the first part of an original piece of music!
*15 minute break*
Session 2 (12.00 - 12.45 PM)
In this session, participants will develop the sounds created earlier by adding rhythm and structure. Working together, they will combine chords, percussion, and melody, with each person having a clear role in the group. The session ends with a short performance of the music they have created together, celebrating their teamwork and creativity.
*45 minute lunch break* - please note that RIAM will not be providing food, therefore participants are asked to please bring their own.
Build - Practise - Perform!
Session 3 (1.30 - 2.15 PM)
Participants will build on their group composition by exploring simple melodies, musical loops, and song structure. Through listening and experimenting, they will help shape different sections of the piece and decide which sounds work best together. The session finishes with a run-through of the piece and an opportunity to decide what they would like to keep or change.
*15 minute break*
Session 4 (2.30 - 3.15 PM)
Participants will practise the piece they have created together, with each person having a clear and accessible role in the performance. Using simple visual supports and short instructions, the group will rehearse the music from beginning to end and prepare for a small performance. The workshop concludes with a celebration of their achievement, followed by an opportunity to reflect on their favourite moments and celebrate what they have achieved as a group.
Tutors
Adam Buttimer
An award-winning tuba player from Tipperary whose career spans solo performance, chamber music, orchestral playing, and inclusive music education.
Alongside his performing career, Adam has developed a particular passion for making music accessible and enjoyable for everyone. For the past five years, he has founded and managed the Exploring the Orchestra Summer Camp at the Royal Irish Academy of Music, sponsored by Matheson LLP. What began as an isolated sensory-friendly concert has grown into a week-long introduction to the orchestra, providing participants with a safe, welcoming and sensory-friendly environment in which to explore, interact with and learn about music.
Adam has developed an interest in pedagogical approaches for neurodivergent learners and is passionate about creating music-making experiences that respond to different ways of learning and communicating.
Leonardo Cassandro
A professional musician and educator with over 15 years of experience. Leonardo programs and delivers drumming, percussion, pre-instrumental, and early years courses for Music Generation. His work often focuses on engaging with communities facing significant challenges, including individuals with additional needs and groups affected by socio-economic hardships. His efforts aim to ensure that those often left behind have access to the transformative power of music.
He collaborates with the National Concert Hall, offering percussion workshops to diverse communities, inspiring a love for music nationwide. He is also involved in innovative initiatives like Music in Mind, promoting inclusion and accessibility in music, and Teen Spirit with Music Generation Kildare, providing young musicians opportunities to perform in prestigious venues like the Riverbank Arts Centre and the National Concert Hall.
As a founding member of the Orff-Schulwerk Association Ireland, Leonardo advocates for creative music education, organizing workshops and masterclasses with renowned experts. His teaching philosophy emphasizes performance-based learning and active participation, helping students deepen their understanding, build confidence, and explore creativity. He is passionate about using music to foster personal growth, community connections, and meaningful experiences.
Prerequisites
Participants must be 18+
Participants are asked to please bring their own food and drink for during break times.