Research
An evidence-informed pedagogical approach
At Lotus Music, one of the values that guides our work is our belief in evidence-informed training for students and teachers. Our in-house team of researchers, in collaboration with partners across Canada and internationally, are leaders in the field of adaptive music education with research projects that enhance understanding of effective pedagogical approaches, effects on learning, and impact on health and wellbeing.
Community Music: From Vision to Impact
Funded by the Azrieli Foundation
This multi-phase project looks at the organizational structures, pedagogical approaches, and impacts on wellbeing of community music. Through this project, we examined these areas at Lotus Music, Community Music Schools of Toronto, and the Sarah McLachlan School of Music. Findings have demonstrated that the approaches of these organizations in supporting families and students positively impacts student wellbeing.
Expanding the Music Circle through Networked Improvisation
Funded by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council
Through this project, we brought together Lotus Music educators, National Arts Centre Orchestra musicians, and participants from Sonshine Community Inclusion Centre to form an inclusive ensemble. We explored ways that playing in an improvisation ensemble could create a community of musicians with mixed abilities. Sample videos of activities and a project report can be found here, and an article on the project published in the International Journal of Music Education can be found here.
Defining the Practice of Adaptive Music Education
Funded by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council
The practice of adaptive music education is relatively new and is still being defined as a discipline. It goes beyond just adapting traditional music education approaches and requires a different paradigm. In collaboration with Dr. Matthew Breaden of Western Sydney University, we studied the pedagogical approaches taken at two leading adaptive music education organizations—Drake Music Scotland in Edinburgh and Resonaari in Helsinki. Through these examinations, we are defining the practice of adaptive music education and developing training tools for music educators.
Music Intervention for Myotonic Dystrophy
Funded by the Brain Heart Interconnectome
In partnership with the CHEO Research Institute and the Music and Health Research Institute, this projects examines the feasibility and impact of a music and movement program on muscle weakness, motor function, and potential cognitive/cardiac symptoms in children and youth with congenital myotonic dystrophy. Through a group class curriculum using rhythmic movement, participants go through classes that include elements of STOMP! and Dalcroze Eurythmics. Social interactions and engagement are also studied.
Thanks to our Research Partners
