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Every student deserves the opportunity to expe-
rience the joy and transformative power of choral
singing and all that comes with it: expression, creativ-
ity, leadership, confidence, belonging, and inclusion.
Inclusivity, in its various forms, entails recognizing
and celebrating the unique strengths of every singer.
When considering neurodivergent singers, it is im-
portant to create a community where diversity is em-
braced and talents are showcased. Bringing neurodi-
vergent and neurotypical singers together emphasizes
the belief that every voice is significant and every
singer is valued. This conviction underpins a special
type of ensemble: the Adaptive Choir.

What is an Adaptive Choir?
There are a variety of ways to include neurodiver-
gent singers in the choral program. A common ap-
proach is whole-group integration, where students
of varying abilities are integrated into the existing
choral structure. This method necessitates adjusting
the music skill level and performance expectations
daily, especially during competitions. As one might
imagine, there are significant challenges with this
model, especially when one considers the barriers to
learning for the neurodivergent population. These
barriers might be visual (e.g., reading skills, visual im-
pairment, dyslexia, and tracking difficulties); physical
(motor control, speech speed, range); and cognitive
(understanding musical concepts and complexity).
1
Meanwhile, an Adaptive Choir is crafted to ensure
that all students have equal access to musical experi-
ences tailored to their cognitive and physical abilities.
This unique model provides neurodivergent singers
with a place of belonging within the choir depart-
ment. By design, these groups integrate neurodiver-
gent and neurotypical singers together in a learning
environment primarily catered to the needs of its
neurotypical members. This collaborative approach-
highlights the distinctiveness of each student while
fostering unity within the choir family.

CHORAL JOURNAL October 2024 Volume 65 Number 3 57