Creative Ability Development

"Close your eyes and imagine a place where you cannot make a mistake, where no-one is allowed to criticize you, everyone listens when you speak, and everyone applauds your ideas....you have just entered the world of Creative Ability Development."

-Alice Kanack

Creative Ability Development (CAD) is a pedagogical method that uses musical improvisation to nurture the creative side of the brain. CAD teaches a child to develop their own musical voice, share with others, and respect the ideas of others. Students who study CAD not only find a strong sense of self-expression in music but also in their everyday lives.

In CAD lessons students learn elements of music theory, musicianship, and communication by playing together and practicing creative exercises. They learn about non-traditional or non-classical scales, modes, and rhythms that aren't generally taught in classical music lessons. Students learn to listen deeply, to play as a soloist, and to accompany others.

By practicing creativity, students become well rounded, confident musicians in a fun and supportive environment.

If you are a teacher looking to incorporate improvisation and creativity into your teaching, I offer teacher training for instructors of any instrument.

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Student CAD Projects

Testimonials

"The Creative Sound Lab class that my daughter takes with Aimee is unlike any other music class that she takes. Rather than being provided a piece of music to learn and master, her class invites students to find, explore and develop their own musical voices. Aimee is a wonderful guide in this process of exploration and learning. Aimee engages students with activities and projects that inspire their creativity. My daughter always looks forward to going to the class In her own words, 'It's fun!'"

Aimée Niemann