Every student deserves the chance to make music. In Q&A for Teaching Band to Students with Differences and Disabilities, leading practitioners Alice Hammel, Nerissa Rebagay, and Tim Lautzenheiser respond to real questions submitted by real teachers about how to include all students:

• How can I be as inclusive as possible for students with physical differences?
• How do I keep students with ADHD on task?
• What are practical strategies to use with students on the autism spectrum?
• How can I positively engage students with behavioral issues in a large class?

Notably, the authors draw on the social model of disability, which focuses on what students can do and how educators can create supportive environments. The questions are organized according to the model’s six domains: (1) behavior, (2) cognition, (3) communication, (4) emotions, (5) sensory needs, and (6) physical/medical needs.

An additional chapter covers related topics of importance, including working with paraprofessionals, Universal Design for Learning, IEPs, 504 plans, and legal and ethical considerations.

Practical and affirming, this resource empowers band directors to lead with both skill and empathy, one inclusive rehearsal at a time.

Alice Hammel is a music educator, author, clinician, and disabilities specialist. Her broad range of experience and decades of teaching instrumental and choral music have informed multiple books and numerous articles on inclusive music instruction.

Nerissa Rebagay is a PhD student at the University of Miami. Her doctoral studies focus on elementary music education and teaching diverse students.

Tim Lautzenheiser is a teacher, clinician, author, and trusted friend to anyone interested in pursuing musical excellence with students. He has led hundreds of student leadership workshops and teacher seminars, and currently serves as Senior Vice President of Education for Conn-Selmer.