The podcast features Chapman Shum, the nasen Young Advocate of the Year 2024 winner, discussing his journey as a visually impaired musician. Chapman, who was born blind and has learning difficulties, shares how music has been a powerful tool for connection and expression. He emphasises that challenges can be overcome and aims to inspire others facing difficulties.

His mentor, Professor Adam, highlights Chapman's exceptional musical abilities, including his talent for improvisation and participation in the National Open Youth Orchestra. The conversation highlights the importance of recognising the musical potential in children with disabilities, challenging stereotypes, and promoting inclusive music-making.

They also discuss the Amber Trust, a charity supporting blind and partially sighted children in music, and the Sounds of Intent framework, which focuses on recognising the musical abilities of children with complex needs.

 

About Chapman Chapman is a young pianist who has overcome significant challenges to achieve success in music. Born blind and with complex disabilities, including autism and hearing loss, he began learning piano at the age of 6. By 13, he had earned the ABRSM ARSM diploma in Piano Performance. A recipient of the Amber Trust Award, Chapman is also a proud member of both the National Open Youth Orchestra London “NOYO” and the London Youth Folk Ensemble “LYFE”, where he continues to explore his passion for music and collaboration. Through his performances, he strives to inspire others and promote inclusivity. In 2024, Chapman was named the nasen Advocate of the Year.

 

About Adam Adam Ockelford is a Professor of Music at the University of Roehampton in London, celebrated for his transformative contributions to music education and accessibility for individuals with disabilities. He is the founder of The Amber Trust, a charity dedicated to supporting blind and partially sighted children on their musical journeys, ensuring that every child, regardless of their needs, can experience the joy and empowerment of music.   As the creator of the "Sounds of Intent" framework, Adam has developed innovative ways to support musical development for individuals with diverse abilities. His pioneering work in music psychology and education has had a profound impact, particularly on children with autism, blindness, and other disabilities.    In recognition of his dedication to inclusive music-making, Adam was recently awarded an Honorary Fellowship from Trinity College London. This prestigious honour acknowledges his efforts to ensure that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, has their musical abilities recognized and celebrated.   Beyond his research and advocacy, Adam is an accomplished musician and inspiring educator, empowering countless young musicians to achieve extraordinary milestones and demonstrating that music has the power to connect, inspire, and transform lives.

 

About the nasen awards

The nasen awards celebrate outstanding contributions to the education and support of children and young people with SEND. These annual awards recognise individuals, schools, and organisations that demonstrate exceptional commitment to inclusive education and the advancement of SEND practices.

nasen is a charitable organisation that supports children and young people with SEND. nasen's goals include Influencing government policy, providing information, training and resources to support practitioners and contributing to the debate and effecting change to improve outcomes for children and young people.

 

Contact Chapman

https://www.facebook.com/musicismytruecalling/

https://www.instagram.com/scmchapman?igsh=MWFjYTkxMWsxaHR1

https://x.com/ChapmanShum

[email protected]

 

Contact Adam

https://www.facebook.com/theambertrust

https://www.instagram.com/theambertrust?igsh=amNpdm9pcTBvNWZr

https://x.com/theambertrust

[email protected]

 

Useful Links

nasen website

nasen events and CPD

nasen live conference 

nasen Awards

 

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