More Than a Music Lesson

While adapted music lessons are not the same as individual music therapy, they are grounded in therapeutic principles and led by highly trained clinicians.

Our priority is always meaningful growth, not just musical progress. Sessions may look different from traditional lessons because we focus first on the skills that matter most to the individual—emotionally, cognitively, socially, and physically.

It’s more than a lesson.
It’s music, adapted with care.

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Adapted Music Lessons - Piano

What Are Adapted Lessons?

Adapted music lessons are individualized music instruction designed for learners who may not thrive in traditional lesson settings. Sessions are led by a board-certified music therapist who adapts teaching methods to meet each student’s unique learning style, regulation needs, interests, and goals.

At Harmony Music Therapy, music is not just about performance or mastery—it’s a powerful tool for growth, confidence, emotional regulation, and connection.

Lessons may look playful, structured, slow-paced, energetic, or flexible. Some weeks we play instruments extensively; other weeks we focus on regulation, attention, or relationship first—and that’s okay. We meet each student where they are and adapt in the moment.

What Makes Adapted Lessons Different?

Goals in adapted music lessons extend beyond learning a song or perfecting technique. While musical skill-building is part of the process, the primary focus is on whole-person growth.

Through adapted instruction, students may develop:

  • Increased attention, focus, and persistence
  • Emotional regulation and frustration tolerance
  • Confidence, self-worth, and pride in their abilities
  • Cognitive flexibility and problem-solving skills
  • Social connection and shared engagement

Because learning an instrument naturally involves challenge, our therapists support students in navigating those moments in ways that feel safe, encouraging, and empowering.

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How Are Lesons Adapted?

Our music therapists tailor instruction using evidence-based strategies, including:

  • Color- or number-coded systems
  • Visual schedules, scripts, and supports
  • Preferred and motivating songs rather than strict method books
  • Sensory supports, movement, and regulation breaks
  • Flexible pacing and creative problem-solving

We currently offer adapted lessons in piano, guitar, ukulele, and voice.

Who Adapted Music Lessons Are For

Adapted music lessons are a great fit for children, teens, and adults who:

  • Learn differently or need flexible instruction
  • Are autistic or have developmental, cognitive, or attention differences
  • Experience anxiety, sensory sensitivities, or emotional regulation challenges
  • Have struggled with or disengaged from traditional music lessons
  • Benefit from relationship-based, strengths-focused learning
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Piano | Guitar | Voice

Harmony Music Therapy Adapted Music Lessons
Adapted Guitar Music Lessons - Harmony Music Therapy
Adapted Music Lessons - Piano
early childhood

The Unique Advantage of Adapted Music Lessons

Goals in adapted music lessons are geared toward the individual needs of the student and they expand beyond just mastery of an instrument.

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Benefits of Adapted Music Lessons

music therapy

Improve Fine Motor

Playing instruments such as the piano, guitar, or ukulele requires fine motor skills. As students learn to play these instruments they will gain strength and coordination.

Increase Attention Span

Adapted lessons can be geared toward increasing attention span. This may include attending to an instrument for a specified period of time, focusing attention during practice time, and following directives from the music therapist.

Increase Confidence

Your child will feel a sense of accomplishment as he or she learns to play an instrument of choice. These new skills can be shared with friends and family in a way that supports the individual in a meaningful way.

Develop Speech and Language

For voice students, singing can help target speech and language goals in a fun and motivating way. Through Therapeutic Singing techniques, individuals may improve articulation, breath control/support, and overall language skills.

Develop Emotional Regulation

A trained music therapist can help a special needs child work through emotional states during lessons. This may include addressing feelings of frustration, anger, or the desire to quit as they arise. Learning to self regulate during difficult tasks is essential to success.

What to Expect with Adapted Music Lessons

At Harmony Music Therapy, we offer adapted music therapy lessons to help bridge the gap between therapy and traditional music education, by giving kids the tools they need to thrive. By meeting each child where they are— emotionally, physically, and cognitively—these sessions build foundational skills such as:

  • fine and gross motor needs
  • coordination
  • impulse control
  • pre-literacy skills
  • attention for long periods of time
  • following directions and listening skills
  • communication skills
  • confidence in their abilities

This means we may never sit at the piano or practice reading rhythms, but we are determined to set your child up for success in their future endeavors.

Beyond simply music instruction, it’s a structured support system for building lifelong skills.

is music therapy a real thing

For pricing information please consult our

Music Therapy Pricing Guide