Project Introduction - “Creating Music through Technology”

The Sobell Foundation grant has enabled Decibels to organise a series of activities entitled “Creating Music through Technology”. This has included lectures, seminars, workshops and events for those who are deaf, hard of hearing and have other related disabilities. It has allowed deaf and hearing participants to develop interests, explore sounds and compose music by using different technologies, based on current and relevant themes in a fast-changing world. This initiative has provided a showcase to the public about the contribution that deaf and disabled people can make, with the right investment, to the creative arts.

The real significance of the project

We have tried to address the ignorance regarding what deaf and disabled children and young people can achieve in society. With this grant from the Sobell Foundation we have “made a difference” to the lives of those who have been involved with this creative arts project. We have used deaf and disabled role models to help run and deliver our Creating Music through Technology programmes so that parents, teachers, carers and others can see the challenges and how they could be overcome through greater access and participation to these tailored and innovative programmes.

Since Decibels’ inception, we have been aware that many deaf and disabled people are excluded from musical activities. We made it our aim to engage and develop musical skills and eliminate negative stereotypes within the music world. These issues can lead to wider problems with mental and physical health, communication and emotional wellbeing. As well as musical involvement, this project has provided a better quality of life and increased the positive emotional and mental state of deaf and disabled people in the areas selected. Whilst Decibels Research project sponsored by Arts Council, England were not specifically asked to quantify how many deaf and disabled people were involved in the Creative Arts, we did ascertain that a large majority (estimate 75%) of those in training, education and employment were not involved or given the opportunity to participate.

Please read on to see our full 11 page report on the project by clicking here