A Decade of Music: Selections from The 10th Annual Kean-CAU Collaborative Concert
Nicole Cerna
Co-Presenters: Ryan Marino
College: College of Liberal Arts
Major: BM.MUSICEDUC
Faculty Research Mentor: Lynann Schraer-Joiner
Abstract:
Building upon prior work, Kean University’s Music Department partners with Union County’s Community Access Unlimited (CAU), an organization supporting adults with cognitive and physical disabilities. In collaboration with local schools and regional ensembles, this initiative promotes creativity, self-expression, and community engagement through inclusive performances and workshops designed for diverse participants.
This performance-based presentation explores concert accessibility, examining how intergenerational, community-centered events can better accommodate adults with disabilities. Guided by the question, How can concerts be designed to maximize accessibility for performers and audiences, and how might these practices inform K–12 settings? the program uses a community-based participatory model. University students mentor adult participants by strengthening musicianship skills, engaging in collaborative decision-making, and fostering meaningful community relationships.
Participants identified barriers including limited large-print or braille music, ASL interpretation, accessible staging, quiet spaces, and livestream options. In response, the program implemented adjustable lighting, sensory-friendly materials, captioning, ASL support, improved signage, and “heads-up” concert guides. Planned initiatives include pre-concert tours, interactive instrument stations, fidget check-out areas, and inclusion training for concert greeters to promote empathy and belonging.
While K–12 students are not direct participants, this work offers clear implications for school music programs. The presentation shares practical strategies—flexible formats, sensory-friendly design, and empathy-building practices—to inform inclusive instruction. Audience members will experience performances featuring adaptive instruments, including the Lou-Hi Sense Board and MusicGlove, underscoring the impact of accessible, community-based music education.