The place of music in the general school curriculum has undergone considerable change in the last few years. During the 1970s, the Schools Council Project ‘Music in the Secondary School Curriculum’ identified a number of approaches, all having a common philosophy – to engage all children in practical musical activity of an expressive, aesthetic nature. More recently, the HMI document ‘Curriculum Matters 4 – Music from 5 to 16’ has brought many of the ideals of this project into sharp focus, with its emphasis on composing, performing and listening as practical, integrated activities. The aims of music education, as stated in this document, highlight the changing direction of music in the curriculum; and the new GCSE should reflect this, so becoming a more relevant examination for a broader cross-section of pupils than has hitherto been possible.

With this changing emphasis in mainstream education, it is worth considering if any developments are possible in terms of general music activities for children with special needs. Is it possible for them to experience a more practical music curriculum; to engage in the process of composition and have heightened listening experiences as a result? Here microelectronics can make a significant contribution, just as it is beginning to do in mainstream education. By using some of the new technologies, pupils with a variety of handicaps are able to explore, create and perform a wide range of music.