MUSIC classrooms and private studios are more than just rooms for practice; they are vibrant hubs of creativity, discipline, and self-expression. Yet, for students with autism and other disabilities, these spaces can occasionally feel like hurdles. The traditional rigors of music education often demand a specific type of focus and physical coordination that may not align with every learner’s natural wiring.

Recognizing the need for a more responsive approach, the UP College of Music, through its Music X Extension Program, is set to host a pivotal session titled “Teaching Music to Students with Autism and Other Disabilities.” This initiative aims to move the needle from mere “integration” toward true, transformative inclusion.

Beyond the One-Size-Fits-All Model

Inclusive education is often misunderstood as simply “inviting someone to the room.” This upcoming talk challenges that notion by exploring how educators can move beyond rigid, traditional teaching models. The goal is to honor the unique communication styles and cognitive strengths of every student.

Rather than viewing a disability as a limitation to be overcome, the session reframes it as a meaningful context. It is a call for radical flexibility, the ability of a teacher to pivot when a lesson plan meets the reality of a student’s sensory or emotional needs.

Practical Wisdom from the Studio

The session will be led by Gabrielle Rodriguez, a distinguished pianist and educator who bridges the gap between high-level performance and specialized pedagogy. A cum laude graduate of the UP College of Music, Rodriguez has performed in various recitals, masterclasses, and award-winning competitions. Her journey into inclusive education was solidified in 2023 when she completed her Master’s in Music Education (Autism Concentration) at the Berklee College of Music in Boston. Having taught young learners across the United States, Singapore, and the Philippines, she now brings a wealth of global experience to the podium.

Her discussion will provide attendees with a toolkit for:

Understanding Autism and Other Disabilities

Seeing the Student Beyond the Disability

Understanding and Handling Challenging Behaviors

Teaching Strategies for Private Music Lessons

Her commitment to this cause is further realized through her latest venture: the Sunflower Music Studio, a specialized space she is currently establishing in the Philippines dedicated to students with disabilities.

Widening the Gates to Artistry

The core philosophy of this session is clear: Inclusive teaching is not about lowering standards; it is about widening access. By adapting pacing and fostering an environment of psychological safety, educators ensure that the discipline and joy of music are available to all, not just a neurotypical few.

This talk is a must-attend for music educators refining their craft, parents advocating for their children’s creative growth, and students looking to build a more equitable future in the arts.Event Logistics

Date: Monday, February 16

Time: 4:00 PM

Venue: Minihall, UP College of Music

If teaching with empathy and purpose is close to your heart, you are warmly invited to join the conversation.