Enhanced descriptions from Syndetics:

It is widely acknowledged that music is of great value for people with learning difficulties. It can be used as a catalyst to help those with special needs acquire and improve basic skills and thereby to communicate better. With clear aims and easy-to-follow instructions, Pied Piper describes 78 enjoyable music activities for groups of children or adults who may have learning difficulties. The emphasis is on using music, rather than learning songs or rhythms, so group members do not need any special skills to be able to participate. Full details are given about any equipment required for the games, as well as suggestions for variations or modifications.

The authors are experienced music therapists and have used these activities on numerous occasions. Designed to encourage people to develop their own ideas and musical activities, this collection will be a source of inspiration and practical advice for anyone working with people with a range of special needs including carers and group leaders.

Author notes provided by Syndetics

John Bean studied the cello at the Royal Academy of Music and completed his music therapy training at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, London. For twelve years he held the position of senior music therapist for Leicestershire Education Authority. He has also worked as a professional cellist in symphony orchestras, chamber music groups and as a cello teacher. He now employs these skills in freelance work. John is married with three children. Amelia Oldfield has worked as a music therapist in Cambridge with a variety of client groups for the past twenty years. She was the joint initiator of the MA in music therapy training at Anglia Polytechnic University, where she is a part time senior lecturer. She has been involved in three major music therapy projects and is currently investigating music therapy with children with autism. She writes and lectures extensively on many aspects of music therapy. She has four young children and plays the clarinet in local chamber groups and orchestras.