Fostering Musical Engagement for the Special Needs Community
Music
Classical music
Children
A unique opportunity for students with special needs to explore string, woodwind, brass or percussion instruments in a supportive and professional environment while developing their auditory, motor, social and motivation skills through hands-on workshops with a trained NAC Orchestra musician and a special needs music educator. This series, available throughout the school year, consists of two interactive workshops and one culminating event/performance led by an NAC Orchestra ensemble of professional musicians from the community. When possible, an instrument fair will also be offered in which students can try the featured instrument(s). Presented in partnership with the Lotus Centre for Special Music Education.
Watch the Music Circle video series and download the free guidebook for information and strategies to foster musical engagement for the special needs community.
Erin received her Bachelor of Music, Master of Arts in Musicology, and Graduate Certificate in Piano Pedagogy Research from the University of Ottawa. Erin holds a Ph.D. in music education from McGill University, where she researched how to effectively train studio music teachers to work with students with autism. In 2012, Erin founded Lotus Centre for Special Music Education, a charitable organization committed to providing access to music education for people with exceptionalities, where she currently serves as executive director. In addition to her role at Lotus Centre, Erin is an adjunct professor the University of Ottawa, teaching courses and guiding students in special music education. Erin presents at conferences and guest lectures throughout North America and internationally on teaching music to students with special needs and other issues in music education.
Having lived in Ottawa most of her life, Elizabeth is thrilled to be part of an Orchestra she has admired for many years.
Elizabeth has been the Second horn player since 2011, and has performed regularly in the horn section since 1986.
Elizabeth attained a Bachelor of Music in Education from the University of Ottawa and a Masters in Music Performance from Indiana University. She studied with many renowned players including Daniel Gress, Philip Farkas, Meir Rimon, Michael Hatfield, and Arnold Jacobs. While studying, Elizabeth received the Ottawa Music Festival Senior Scholarship in 1983, and the NACO Bursary in 1984.
Elizabeth was a founding member of the Bel Canto Wind Quintet, which ran a successful concert series in Ottawa for eleven years. This chamber ensemble also toured in Ontario and Quebec, and was often heard on CBC Radio, Radio Canada and in the Ottawa International Chamber Music Festival.
Elizabeth is also a member of the Capital Brass Works. This entertaining thirteen member brass and percussion ensemble performed on its own self run concert series in Ottawa, toured in Ontario and has recorded three CD’s to date.
Elizabeth has enjoyed teaching for many institutions in Ottawa including the University of Ottawa, Ottawa Youth Orchestra Academy, and Canterbury School of the Arts.
In 2013, Elizabeth Simpson co-created the NAC’s Music Circle, a music program for children, teens and adults with special needs. This program introduces orchestral instruments and the joy of live music, through workshops and a sensory friendly concert.
Elizabeth has worked with students at the OCDSB, CHEO, and the Lotus Centre, and with adults in the LIFE programs.
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