About

After six years of extensive research, trialling and refining at Foyle Arts on the Derry Campus of Ulster University, Dr Denise White FRSA PhD M.Ed B.Ed (Hons), a multi-award winning, experienced Special Needs educator who has gained global recognition for her work with vulnerable children and adults, and Shaun Healy, the world’s first person with severe intellectual  disabilities to conduct an orchestra, invented ‘Conductology,’ a new gesture language for music.

The scientifically-proven methodology significantly advances creative thinking and a plethora of skills. It has been proven to enhance confidence, self-worth and emotional well-being and can be utilised within any age-group, background, ability or culture. Conductology can be used within any music and sound environment introducing every child and adult to inclusive and accessible music-making including via the means of adaptive music technology and a range of sound objects.

Glowing testimonies from academics, music professionals and celebrities poured in after their debut public performance. Deborah Kelleher, C.E.O. Royal Irish Academy of Music, “… a real game-changer,” Professor Frank Lyons MBE, Ulster University, “When people hear the music for themselves, their perceptions of those with disabilities is brought to a whole new level.”

Galvanised by the COVID-19 pandemic, they responded by developing an online Academy, ‘the University of Conductology,’ with it’s own safe, mentored social network so that the academic, physical, mental and social benefits of Conductology can be enjoyed worldwide without breaking ‘Physical-distancing’ guidelines.

In support, Shaun’s new orchestra, (ICIO) Irish Conductology Inclusive Orchestra which performed in the Millennium Forum in Derry recently, Irelands largest theatre stage, intend to establish Conductology music ensembles for children, young people and adults with and without disabilities across the island of Ireland.

Opportunities to participate free in local orchestras or ensembles either remotely/online or via mainstream schools and colleges, that have been denied to 1 in 7 of the population in the Republic of Ireland, 1 in 5 in the U.K., for generations.

Academic courses are available remotely in the online academy, the University of Conductology at www.conductology.ie