Classroom Music for Diverse Abilities (CMDA)

To meet the needs of our ever-changing world we deliver our Classroom Music for Diverse Abilities curriculum in three different formats: remotely (online), a hybrid option (partially online and in-person), and in-person at our location or through partnerships.  

ChiME’s Classroom Music for Diverse Abilities (CMDA) program is delivered in weekly sessions to pre-K through 12th grade classrooms (or pods) in groups of 2 to 20 throughout the school year. ChiME’s music therapists host 30-minute classes in-person, remotely, or via a hybrid model to engage, excite, and encourage active music making for every student. Should students be in the classroom, ChiME is able to deliver and adapt programming to account for small groups of students, social distancing, limited gross motor movement, and mask requirements for activities like singing. Providing each child with their own set of instruments eliminates the sharing of objects. For remote or hybrid instruction, classroom requirements include a Smartboard or similar device for students to see their ChiME music therapist, as well as a laptop/computer with webcam so the therapist can see students. ChiME will supplement equipment for partners as needed for remote learning in classrooms. If students are at home, a device with internet, camera, speakers, and microphone is needed for each child. In this situation, ChiME will also provide instrument packs for each child to participate successfully at home.

Whether students are at home or at school, CMDA classes teach and enhance musical and nonmusical life skills with tools and activities like singing, percussive instrument play, dance, and visual aids. Repertoire includes age-appropriate, high-energy, and culturally diverse songs from a variety of genres and countries. ChiME’s music therapists use their expertise and therapeutic skills to adapt the activities to each child’s unique ability level. Furthermore, with each child receiving a ChiME instrument pack, they will truly feel and experience the musical and nonmusical concepts being taught!
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While specific CMDA objectives vary based on age and ability level of students, participants will grow in musical and nonmusical objectives to the best of their abilities. Students in CMDA will:

• actively take part in music-making
• learn to use various non-pitched percussion instruments for self-expression
• keep a steady beat in a variety of tempi
• recognize and react to tempo changes
• produce (or echo) accurate rhythms
• recognize and produce (or echo) accurate dynamics
• demonstrate awareness of a variety of genres and musical traditions

Students will also:

• develop listening skills
• develop turn-taking and sharing skills
• develop an understanding of the value of diversity

• gain tools and confidence for self-expression and communication
• experience an increase in the quality of life

• develop a sense of being part of a community

For more information on ChiME's Classroom Music for Diverse Abilities programs, please contact
​Alli Dunn at adunn@chimemusic.org or leave us a message at 312-738-2646.