A philosophical and practical approach to an inclusive community chorus

This holistic study explores the inclusive community chorus ‘Singing Songbirds’ in Millbrook, Dutchess County, New York. The chorus is part of the Institute for Music and Health’s (IMH) programming. This article investigates the important philosophical approach and its practical application. Underpinning all the work of the IMH is the Diamond Method. This method is based on the work of John Diamond, MD, which includes the Outreach Principle. The choir’s weekly rehearsals, the repertoire and a performance are discussed. The specific accommodations and support for each member, non-disabled and those with disabilities, are also described. Questions posed include the following: in what way is this choir different from other community choruses? Are the various accommodations for members successful? What are the attitudes of the non-disabled choir members to the members with disabilities? The author was a participant/observer during the development of the chorus over four seasons of the choir’s history.