Exceptional Ensembell Brings Alternative Approach to Palm Beach County
A Palm Beach County nonprofit is using a new approach to help adults with disabilities connect with peers and learn new life skills through music. The Exceptional Ensembell is a handbell choir that offers the opportunity to experience the excitement of creating music together.
Exceptional Ensembell was founded in 2018 by two mothers of adults with autism. They serve adults with a variety of intellectual and developmental disabilities such as autism, cerebral palsy, and down syndrome. The nonprofit is open to transitioning high school students and out-of-school adults ages 22 and older.
Classes for the handbell choir are led by professional music therapist Meghan Hanley of Creative Arts Therapies in the Palm Beaches. During class, students learn the art of playing handbells, ringing specific notes on cue, and making music as a group. Classes are offered as both Level 1 and Level 2, each specific to the student’s skill level and comfort zone.
Each Wednesday during the month of August, the Exceptional Ensembell is offering free Level 1 classes. Each class will begin at 5:30 p.m. at the United Methodist Church of the Palm Beaches in West Palm Beach. Registration is required, and donations are welcomed. Level 1 classes are also being offered via Zoom during the month of August on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Registration is required and there is a nominal fee. Scholarships are available to those in need.
Numerous studies have documented the benefits of music education for young people who are neurotypical, and for those on the autism spectrum. More recently, researchers have discovered that music therapy improves the ability of adults with developmental disabilities to focus, follow direction, and process information. Parents of Ensembell participants have noted increased self-expression and social engagement from their loved ones.
For more information about Exceptional Ensembell and to register for classes, visit www.exceptionalensembell.org.
Professional music therapist Meghan Hanley of Creative Arts Therapies of the Palm Beaches (right) leads weekly summer music classes in West Palm Beach for Exceptional Ensembell, a local nonprofit serving adult students with disabilities. Photo by Kelli Alvord.
Ringers like Dena and Jordy share the joy of music with their friends and fans. Photo by Exceptional Ensembell Handbell Choir Facebook.
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