Music and Dyslexia
These are some of the commonly reported difficulties with music:
- Difficulties in the reading of music, particularly sight-reading without adequate
preparation.
• Aural tests, particularly those involving memory, such as dictation.
• The understanding and production of written material (text/language and music).
• Work in music theory: understanding and de-coding information; organisation of
examination answers.
• Analysis of music and the use of examples in written work.
• The organisation of evaluative written work: evaluation of performances by self
and others.
• Difficulties with the sequencing of material; decisions about what is
important/relevant; choice of wording for answers, both verbal and written.
• Organisation of complex and non-regular timetables of lessons, rehearsals and
concerts and organisation of relevant material: music, strings, reeds etc.
• Organisation of personal practice. - “Visual stress”
The British Dyslexia Association have some great resources for music students, parents, and teachers.
Please visit their website for more information and a guide for music teachers:
Music and inclusive teaching (information booklet)
Top ten tips for Dyslexia-friendly music teaching
Thanks to Luke Pickett who attended the BDA Dyslexia and Music conference October 2018 and shared advice at the Associates Networking conference. Here are his slides as requested by those who attended Dyslexia Slides