Music Dyslexia Recommendations

Assessment for Musicians with Dyslexia

Welcome to Music Dyslexia, where we are specialists in assessing various learning differences such as ADHD, dyslexia and DCD/dyspraxia in musicians. We have observed in our research that engaging with music from an early age can significantly improve cognitive skills such as working memory (WM), phonological awareness (PA), and word reading efficiency (WRE)—which are the general factors tested in dyslexia assessment. For this reason musicians with dyslexia often go undetected as musical training can mask the classic differences noticed in dyslexia. We have developed special comprehensive assessment techniques that help us assess musicians accurately, so they can access the support they need.

I update recommendations and tips for musicians with dyslexia on a regular basis. Keep checking out the blog to keep up with my latest ideas and research. Please share these posts with your friends using the share buttons above. I'd love to hear from you too. Let me know what you want to know more about. Email hello@musicdyslexia.co.uk 

Difficulties Musicians Face in Traditional Dyslexia Assessment

Musicians often encounter specific challenges when they undergo assessment for dyslexia or any other neurodiversity. Traditional testing methods generally include the assessment of working memory, phonological awareness and word reading efficiency, among other cognitive abilities and literacy attainment, which are well developed in musicians even with dyslexia. For instance, musicians typically excel in auditory working memory and processing speed due to years of practice. However, these strengths can mask the traits of dyslexia, affecting the interpretation of assessments.

 

Moreover, musicians may have a greater ability to read texts accurately due to years of training in reading musical notation. This may result in confusion during assessments that do not take their musical background into account. As a result of this, musicians with dyslexia might not receive the timely support they need, which is why many of them go through their educational journeys without appropriate resources.

Our Approach to Neurodiversity Assessment for Musicians

Here at Music Dyslexia, we understand the effect music can have on cognition. That is why we have developed a different approach to neurodiversity assessment that is comprehensive and tailored specifically for musicians. We ask regarding prior music training experience and carry out the assessment accordingly that consider both musical training and cognitive performance.

 

This holistic approach helps us to make sure that our assessments are not only accurate but also supports the musician's ongoing development.

 

The Services We Offer for Musicians with Dyslexia

We provide a range of services aimed at identifying this learning difference among musicians:

 

  1. Dyslexia Assessments for All Ages: We offer comprehensive dyslexia assessments for musicians and non-musicians aged seven and above.
  2. SpLD Assessments for Adults: We understand the struggles that adult musicians may also face due to dyslexia. Through our assessments, we can help adults understand their learning differences and develop strategies for success.
  3. DSA Assessments: For musicians who are university students, our DSA assessment is very beneficial as it allows them to access Disabled Students Allowances, which provides the financial support they need for assistive technologies.

 

We give utmost importance to confidentiality and reliability in our services. All assessments at Music Dyslexia are carried out by qualified professionals who prioritize your well-being above everything else.

 

Why Choose Us?

Choosing Music Dyslexia means you are choosing experts that understand the unique situation for musicians with dyslexia. Through our assessments you can identify your strengths and challenges, and plan for support accordingly. Here are a few reasons to choose us here at Music Dyslexia:

 

Tailored Assessments for Musicians: We focus on the specific needs of musicians with dyslexia, which allows us to provide a comprehensive assessment of their cognitive profiles.

 

Experienced Professionals: All our assessors have DBS certificate and extensive experience in both music and neurodiversity assessment.

 

Supportive Environment: We create a comfortable atmosphere during assessments, so you can feel at ease.

 

Flexible Assessment Options: Though we mainly offer remote assessment, we can conduct face-to-face assessments at home or school, if you live in West Yorkshire and surrounding areas.

 

Call Us Today to Book an Appointment

If you or someone you know is a musician with dyslexia, who is struggling to get correct assessment for their condition, you can contact us today at Music Dyslexia to schedule an assessment. We can help you uncover your strengths and provide the support you need for your success as a musician.