See Hear Play is a groundbreaking initiative developed by Enable Ireland’s National Assistive Technology Department in partnership with Apollo Ensemble. With generous support from the Smurfit Kappa Foundation and TKMaxx, the project aims to make music education accessible to all students, including those with physical, communication, and cognitive challenges. By integrating Assistive Music Technology (AMT) into Irish classrooms, See Hear Play empowers every child to engage with music, creativity, and self-expression—regardless of ability.
At the heart of the project are specially designed kits that combine adaptive hardware—such as switches, sensors, touchscreens, Eye Gaze systems, and game controllers—with the Apollo Ensemble software platform. These tools allow students to interact with music and visuals using input methods tailored to their individual needs. The current activities are designed to align with the Irish Primary, Junior Cycle and Leaving Cert Applied curricula (Sept 2025).
The project follows an action research model, meaning it evolves based on real-time feedback from participating schools. Currently active in four schools, See Hear Play provides each with a full kit, access to an online support space, and ongoing guidance from the SHP team—both in person and virtually. This collaborative approach ensures that the project remains responsive to the needs of students and educators alike.
In the classroom, See Hear Play fosters inclusive music-making through a wide range of activities. Students explore cause and effect by triggering random sounds, engage in call-and-response sound phrases, match visuals to songs, and create group performances using melody snippets. They can also experiment with chords, drones, soundscapes, pentatonic scales, and arpeggios to build original compositions. Importantly, conventional instruments like drums, shakers, and found sounds are integrated alongside digital tools, creating a rich and varied musical environment.
Teachers are supported every step of the way. The SHP team provides tutorials, activity cards, and a feedback platform where educators can share insights and suggest new ideas. Schools have the flexibility to use ready-made themes, adapt existing ones, or create entirely new activities tailored to their students. Some have already begun incorporating See Hear Play into seasonal events like Halloween and Christmas, using AMT to craft spooky soundscapes or festive performances where every child plays a part.
What makes See Hear Play truly special is its commitment to student engagement, teacher empowerment, and continuous learning. By placing students at the centre of the experience and equipping teachers with the tools and support they need, the project is redefining what inclusive music education can look like.
Ultimately, See Hear Play is a movement toward inclusive creativity. It demonstrates how thoughtful use of technology can open doors for learners who might otherwise be excluded from conventional music-making. As the project grows, it promises to build a substantial bank of inclusive practices and resources that can benefit classrooms across Ireland and beyond.
For more information or to get involved, educators can contact Fidelma Morris at fmorris@enableireland.ie.