The Neurodiverse Music Classroom: Using Strengths of All Students in Various Learning Environments

Neurodiversity focuses on incorporating strength-based learning in the classroom while recognizing and celebrating students’ different brain levels. This type of environment can benefit all types of students and learners. This session will focus on creating a neurodiverse classroom setting by incorporating positive niche construction, which can include: strength awareness, positive role models, assistive technology, universal design for learning, and creating environmental modifications. This session will cover elementary to secondary settings, in addition to classroom music to performance ensembles.

Presented by Brian J. Wagner-Yeung

Brian J. Wagner-Yeung is the Special Learners chair to NYSSMA. He received his BA and MSED in Music Education from CUNY Queens College and an advanced certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorders from CUNY Brooklyn College. He currently teaches special music education for the NYC Department of Education, and is an adjunct faculty member at CUNY Brooklyn College. He has taught students on the elementary, middle school, and high school level - where he has taught students from special education settings, to students who are gifted and talented. Mr. Wagner-Yeung has taught: general music, string orchestra, musical theatre, and performing arts. He has presented workshops at the state, national, and international level - and has had articles published at the state, national and international level. The focus of his professional work includes neurodiversity in musical environments, making musical connections for all students, and adapting the string orchestra experience for all types of learners.