Generated by All in One SEO Pro v5.0.1.1, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Sound Without Sight Community hub for blind and partially sighted musicians ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://soundwithoutsight.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Featured content](https://soundwithoutsight.org/resources/featured-content/) - News and Features - [Introducing our community-led user testing initiatives: help drive accessibility innovation in music and audio](https://soundwithoutsight.org/introducing-our-community-led-user-testing-initiatives-help-drive-accessibility-innovation-in-music-and-audio/) - At Sound Without Sight, we firmly believe that the most effective accessibility solutions are co-created with blind and partially sighted people, not simply for them. That's why we're excited to be launching a new community-led user testing initiative, designed to connect blind and partially sighted people with developers, arts organisations and technology companies seeking authentic accessibility - [Replay now: Playing in an orchestra at the BBC Proms as a blind musician](https://soundwithoutsight.org/replay-now-playing-in-an-orchestra-at-the-bbc-proms-as-a-blind-musician/) - Tools and strategies for learning music, accessing rehearsals and the conductor. - [Replay now: Andre Louis composes the music for our next podcast season](https://soundwithoutsight.org/replay-now-andre-louis-composes-the-music-for-our-next-podcast-season/) - 'Musical cheffing' with blind musician, Andre Louis. - [Get involved: accessibility at Audio Developer Conference 2025](https://soundwithoutsight.org/get-involved-accessibility-at-audio-developer-conference-2025/) - Introduction We are delighted to be a Community Sponsor for ADC25, taking place online and in Bristol 10-12 November 2025. ADC is an event celebrating all audio development technologies, from music applications and game audio to audio processing and embedded systems. ADC’s mission is to help attendees acquire and develop new skills, and build a network - [MuseScore Studio tips and tricks for musicians with print disabilities](https://soundwithoutsight.org/musescore-studio-tips-and-tricks-for-musicians-with-print-disabilities/) - Applying Modified Stave Notation (large print) styles, adapting visual settings, etc. - [Sound Without Sight wins top honours at International Sound Awards 2025](https://soundwithoutsight.org/sound-without-sight-wins-top-honours-at-international-sound-awards-2025/) - Sound Without Sight has been crowned the winner of the Social & Culture category, and the ceremony as a whole, at the International Sound Awards 2025. Dubbed "the Oscars of Sound,” the awards recognise impactful music related projects, products, and services. Jay Pocknell, Project Manager, represented Sound Without Sight at the awards ceremony, which took - [The future of braille music under threat in the UK: have your say](https://soundwithoutsight.org/the-future-of-braille-music-under-threat-in-the-uk-have-your-say/) - Introduction It’s no secret that RNIB has spent the last nine months deliberating how to restructure its teams and services in an effort to close a reported £10m shortfall in funding. What none of us who are blind or who read braille ever expected is that RNIB would reach the decision to cease personal transcription - [Presentation - Joining the Dots: Braille Music in the 21st Century](https://soundwithoutsight.org/presentation-joining-the-dots-braille-music-in-the-21st-century/) - How braille music fits into the practices of a modern-day classical musician. - [Gary O'Donoghue Q&A: excelling in broadcast journalism](https://soundwithoutsight.org/gary-odonoghue-qa-excelling-in-broadcast-journalism/) - Gary's career journey, approaches to reporting, and technology tips. - [Making digital mixing consoles talk, with DiGiCo and the Audio Accessibility Alliance](https://soundwithoutsight.org/making-digital-mixing-consoles-talk-with-digico-and-the-audio-accessibility-alliance/) - Live demo, insights into development, and future refinements. - [Replay webinar: Using VOCR to access music software on macOS](https://soundwithoutsight.org/replay-webinar-using-vocr-to-access-music-software-on-macos/) - What VOCR is; why and how to use it on macOS. - [Demo: braille music translation using Sao Mai Braille (SMB)](https://soundwithoutsight.org/demo-braille-music-translation-using-sao-mai-braille-smb/) - Everything you need to know to create your own braille music scores from MusicXML files. - [Joey Stuckey Q&A: creativity, accessibility and authenticity](https://soundwithoutsight.org/joey-stuckey-qa-creativity-accessibility-and-authenticity/) - Engineering, performing, touring, and the state of accessibility in audio. - [Project showcase: Sonic Weather](https://soundwithoutsight.org/project-showcase-sonic-weather/) - Accessing weather data can be tricky, and while smart speakers and virtual assistants can provide a snapshot of the forecast, trying to build a complete picture without spending time on a screen is nearly impossible. Sonic Weather could potentially be the solution to this problem, as it is a site-specific project that provides an alternative - [Q&A with Lachi: artist, producer, and music industry executive](https://soundwithoutsight.org/lachi-qa-artist-producer-and-music-industry-executive/) - Insights into Lachi's career so far, including setting up RAMPD. - [SightlessKombat: Audio Innovations in Game Accessibility](https://soundwithoutsight.org/sightlesskombat-audio-innovations-in-game-accessibility/) - How sound cues, narration, and audio description are improving access to video games. - [Access Through Collaboration: help us create a more inclusive music industry](https://soundwithoutsight.org/access-through-collaboration-help-us-create-a-more-inclusive-music-industry/) - We are excited to be launching a new survey, which aims to shape our future work. We want to more closely involve our members to improve accessibility within music and sound. Over the last few months, we have seen an increase in enquiries from music technology developers, seeking advice on ways to make their products more - [Sound Without Sight year in review for NAMM Show 2026](https://soundwithoutsight.org/sound-without-sight-year-in-review-for-namm-show-2026/) - In this article, we share our 2025 year in review. You can watch the video version below, or continue to the transcript. Video transcript Hey, Jay here - Project Manager at Sound Without Sight. It’s been a big year for the project! We recruited two new Community Leads, Sam and Tilly. We continued to grow - [Response to RNIB's Personal Transcription decision](https://soundwithoutsight.org/response-to-rnibs-personal-transcription-decision/) - James Risdon on behalf of Sound Without Sight Steering Group, December 2025: Introduction Back in April, RNIB announced that it was to cease Personal Transcription and outsource this service to a third-party commercial organisation. Sound Without Sight wrote a response to this decision which focussed on the impact it would have on blind and partially sighted musicians. - [Joe Kenny: Let's go play music, it's the easy bit](https://soundwithoutsight.org/joe-kenny-lets-go-play-music-its-the-easy-bit/) - I don’t think I ever had a choice when it came to music. Maybe fellow musicians and creatives might agree with me here but when it’s in you, it’s in you, and you have to let it out! I’m Joe Kenny. I’ve been blind since age five and Live in Belfast in Northern Ireland. I - [Replay now: making the BBC Radio documentary 'Joining the Dots - 200 Years of Braille Music'](https://soundwithoutsight.org/replay-now-making-the-bbc-radio-documentary-joining-the-dots-200-years-of-braille-music/) - Producer, Kevin Satizabal, and presenter, Matthew Wadsworth, provide behind-the-scenes insights. - [From office to orchestra pit, a classical harpist's journey](https://soundwithoutsight.org/adelaide-jang-from-office-to-orchestra/) - Adelaide Jang shares her story, from having never touched a harp 3 years ago, to being a professional harpist. She also talks about her online streaming, under the name 'NervousHarpist'. - [Meet Tilly and Sam, our new Community Leads](https://soundwithoutsight.org/meet-tilly-and-sam-our-new-community-leads/) - Hear and read a short introduction from Tilly and Sam - our two new Community Leads. - [Ciara Moser interview: replay or read the summary now](https://soundwithoutsight.org/ciara-moser-interview-replay-session-and-read-the-summary/) - World-class session bassist, performer, composer, and educator. - [Notes from 'Inclusive Design in Harmony'. Part 2: Recommendations](https://soundwithoutsight.org/notes-from-inclusive-design-in-harmony-part-2-recommendations/) - This article collates all the inclusively designed software, hardware, instruments, ensembles, and opportunities mentioned by panellists at the 'Inclusive Design in Harmony' event. - [Learning by Ear: Chapman’s Experience with the Taipei MIDI Library](https://soundwithoutsight.org/learning-by-ear-chapmans-experience-with-the-taipei-midi-library/) - Two years ago, then 13-year-old blind and neurodivergent pianist Chapman Shum participated in the 1st International Music Competition for the Visually Impaired, organised by the Taipei Music Foundation for the Visually Impaired. The event was not only an unforgettable musical experience, connecting Chapman with blind and visually impaired musicians from around the world, but he - [ADC24: catch up on the Inclusive Design workshop now](https://soundwithoutsight.org/adc24-catch-up-on-the-inclusive-design-workshop-now/) - The recording from the 'Inclusive Design within Audio Products - What, Why, How?' Accessibility Workshop at ADC 2024 is now available to replay! You can watch the whole recording via the link below, our find links to specific sections further down this page. Watch the recording Presentation slides About the workshop Following the success of - [The Amber Trust launches new Music Teacher Directory](https://soundwithoutsight.org/the-amber-trust-launches-new-music-teacher-directory/) - We are very excited to see this launched. A collaboration between The Amber Trust and RNIB, the directory was developed in response to community feedback that said it can be difficult to find a music teacher who is confident in supporting blind or partially sighted students. From The Amber Trust: The Amber Trust is pleased - [Byron Harden interview: replay and resources](https://soundwithoutsight.org/byron-harden-interview-replay-and-resources/) - Music production, audio engineering, training and industry apprenticeships. - [Panel discussion: releasing and monetising your music](https://soundwithoutsight.org/panel-discussion-releasing-and-monetising-your-music/) - Using music distribution services; understanding royalties and sync. - [Panel discussion: 'In Tune with Success' - educational and professional pathways open to VI musicians](https://soundwithoutsight.org/in-tune-with-success-replay-or-read-the-summary-now/) - Panel Q&A in collaboration with LOOK UK. Pathways through music education and into employment. - [Precious Akindele: applying to and studying at the BRIT School](https://soundwithoutsight.org/precious-akindele-applying-to-and-studying-at-the-brit-school/) - Introduction Hi, my name is Precious Akindele and I am a year 12 student at The BRIT school. I love music and partake in multiple music lessons a week, choirs, composition lessons and jazz ensembles. Last week I did work experience at Sound Without Sight. In this bonus episode of the Sound Without Sight podcast, I speak to - [Ben Price interview: replay or read the summary now](https://soundwithoutsight.org/ben-price-interview-replay-or-read-the-summary-now/) - Artist Manager; advocate for accessibility in the music industry. - [Panel discussion: approaches to learning music with a visual impairment](https://soundwithoutsight.org/panel-discussion-approaches-to-learning-music-with-a-visual-impairment/) - The panel compare braille music, learning by ear, and using notation apps. - [Reflecting on our Music Industry Engagement Internship programme](https://soundwithoutsight.org/reflecting-on-our-music-industry-engagement-internship-programme/) - Introduction For the last 9 months, Sound Without Sight has been very privileged to work with Sarah Bayley and Zenny Jabeera as our two Music Industry Engagement Interns. Many thanks to Youth Music for supporting these opportunities via the Incubator Fund, and to Creative Opps for supporting us with recruitment. I wanted to take this opportunity to thank Sarah and Zenny for - [Updates from the Audio Developer Conference, ADC24](https://soundwithoutsight.org/updates-from-the-audio-developer-conference-adc24/) - In this episode of the Sound Without Sight podcast, we share updates from the Audio Developer Conference, ADC, 24. Community member Trahern Culver reported live from the event, and later in this podcast, you will hear the interviews he captured with heritage audio company SSL, musician Andre Louis, and software instrument company Spitfire Audio. Trey - [How MusicTeacher.com teamed up with Sound Without Sight to help everyone find the perfect music teacher](https://soundwithoutsight.org/how-musicteacher-com-teamed-up-with-sound-without-sight-to-help-everyone-find-the-perfect-music-teacher/) - Introduction Have you ever struggled to find a music teacher who is confident teaching a blind or partially sighted person? This shouldn’t be the case, but we hear it all too often. A few weeks ago, we reported that MusicTeacher.com now allows musicians to filter teachers by the access requirements that they can support. There - [Demo: Using MuseScore Studio with a screen reader](https://soundwithoutsight.org/demo-using-musescore-studio-with-a-screen-reader/) - How to use all the basic functions, demoed with NVDA. - [Emma Tracey interview: replay or read the summary now](https://soundwithoutsight.org/emma-tracey-interview-replay-or-read-the-summary-now/) - Podcast Producer, Presenter, and Journalist working at the BBC. - [Joanne Roughton-Arnold interview: replay or read the summary now](https://soundwithoutsight.org/joanne-roughton-arnold-interview-replay-or-read-the-summary-now/) - Operatic soprano, CEO, and disability arts trailblazer. - [Slau Halatyn interview: replay or read the summary now](https://soundwithoutsight.org/slau-halatyn-interview-replay-or-read-the-summary-now/) - Studio owner, producer, musician, Pro Tools VoiceOver expert. - [Notes from ‘Inclusive Design in Harmony’. Part 1: Overview](https://soundwithoutsight.org/notes-from-inclusive-design-in-harmony-part-1-overview/) - A summary of the conversation from the 'Inclusive Design in Harmony' roundtable event, which explored ways of improving inclusion of people who have additional access requirements. - [Sound Without Sight project update 2024](https://soundwithoutsight.org/sound-without-sight-project-update-2024/) - I was asked by TAVIP to provide an update that could be shared at their TechABreak weekend. As well as sharing the initiative with a wider audience, I thought it would be a great opportunity to reflect on the progress of the project so far, since its launch almost 18 months ago, as well as - [Tim Burgess: improving hardware accessibility using MIDI](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tim-burgess-improving-hardware-accessibility-using-midi/) - Tim Burgess, Raised Bar, provides examples of how MIDI has been used to enhance accessibility within music technology hardware devices. - [Accessing online guitar tutorials with a screen reader](https://soundwithoutsight.org/accessing-online-guitar-tutorials-with-a-screen-reader/) - Introduction In this article I’m going to discuss some of my favourite guitar websites. I want to stress that this is a very personal view, reflecting my own ability, needs and preferences, I am an amateur musician, and this is just the view of someone who plays for pleasure, and only occasionally to entertain. However, - [FastSpring: why accessibility matters at the point of sale too](https://soundwithoutsight.org/fastspring-why-accessibility-matters-at-the-point-of-sale-too/) - How FastSpring are working with retailers, including music and audio software companies, to ensure that processes for purchasing software online are as accessible as possible. - [James Risdon: Let's talk about visual impairment](https://soundwithoutsight.org/james-risdon-lets-talk-about-visual-impairment/) - About the author James Risdon is a freelance recorder player and also works as Access Coordinator at ABRSM. He worked for nearly ten years as the Music Officer at RNIB, where he took a particular interest in curating the programme of professional development workshops for blind and partially sighted musicians. This article draws partly on - ['An Introduction to Inclusive Design of Audio Products': summary and recording from the Audio Developer Conference workshop](https://soundwithoutsight.org/an-introduction-to-inclusive-design-of-audio-products-summary-and-recording-from-the-audio-developer-conference-workshop/) - Introduction The last couple of years have seen a huge increase in the attention to the discourse surrounding inclusivity and accessibility in design of audio and music software. With recent efforts by companies such as JUCE, Muse Group and Ableton to make their software accessible, precedents are being set and the concepts of inclusivity and - [Hello from our Music Industry Engagement Interns](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hello-from-our-music-industry-engagement-interns/) - Hear and read a short introduction from Sarah and Zenny - our two Music Industry Engagement Interns. Since late 2023, the Sound Without Sight project has been very lucky to be working with Sarah and Zenny, who have already helped our knowledge hub to amass over 40 articles, and have been integral to the development of our Monthly Meet-up Sessions, which launch this week. - [Bobby Goulder: Building a Career as a Musician with Central Vision Loss](https://soundwithoutsight.org/bobby-goulder-building-a-career-as-a-musician-with-central-vision-loss/) - Bobby writes about his multi-disciplinary journey as a musician so far. He shares his techniques for learning and playing music, using assistive technology, and networking as someone with low vision. - [In-depth: Jessica Winter on re-framing her artist image](https://soundwithoutsight.org/jessica-winter-on-re-framing-her-artist-image/) - Alternative pop artist Jessica Winter talks to Jay about her journey as an artist, and why she has chosen to flaunt her glasses as part of her image. - [John Merriman: developing Crown Lane as a Studio for everyone](https://soundwithoutsight.org/john-merriman-developing-crown-lane-as-a-studio-for-everyone/) - John Merriman details the constant evolution of Crown Lane Studios, as it strives to be the world's most accessible recording and rehearsal space. - [Audio Programming Unseen: an introduction ](https://soundwithoutsight.org/audio-programming-unseen-an-introduction/) - Dr. Tony Stockman, of Queen Mary, University of London, writes an initial introduction to the three main audio programming languages that are currently accessible to blind and visually impaired programmers. - [Brush up your braille music with the Gardner's Trust Braille Music Literacy Awards 2023-24](https://soundwithoutsight.org/gardners-trust-braille-music-literacy-awards-2023-24/) - Daisy Higman, Music Support Officer at RNIB, writes about the newly redesigned Awards, which offer a framework for progression for braille music learners in the UK. ## Pages - [Home](https://soundwithoutsight.org/) - Sound Without Sight is a new non-profit initiative, aimed at promoting sight-impairment within audio and music. We will: showcase talent, highlight solutions to accessibility barriers, and combine collective knowledge from the community, for the community. - [Webinars](https://soundwithoutsight.org/community/webinars/) - Next session Thursday 20 August 2026, 7:30pm BST. Pathways into Broadcast. We are excited to announce our next webinar and Q&A, where we will be exploring how to forge a career in the broadcast industry. Join us on Thursday 20 August 2026 – register below! Senior correspondent Sean Dilley and senior journalist Mani Djazmi, both working - [Access Through Collaboration](https://soundwithoutsight.org/get-involved/access-through-collaboration/) - Survey: Access Through Collaboration This survey has now closed. We used insights from it to build our community-led user testing initiatives. Background Over the last few months, we have seen an increase in enquiries from music technology developers, seeking advice on ways to make their products more accessible. We have also been contacted by arts - [Drop-in Sessions](https://soundwithoutsight.org/community/drop-in-sessions/) - Event feedback Sometimes the most valuable conversations happen when there isn't an agenda. Thanks to support from the Elizabeth Eagle-Bott Memorial Fund, starting in July 2026, we will be hosting a 9-month pilot of open Drop-in Sessions. Following community demand, these sessions are informal gatherings for blind and partially sighted musicians, audio producers, sound engineers, - [Our Newsletter](https://soundwithoutsight.org/community/newsletter/) - We send out a community-driven newsletter most weeks, compiling news, opportunities, and events that are likely to be of interest to our members, as well as sharing new content that we publish. Have you seen anything that should be included? Share it here! Subscribe to our newsletter You can unsubscribe at any time by following - [Community-led User Experience Testing](https://soundwithoutsight.org/community/user-testing/) - Background We are honoured to have received recent enquiries from music technology developers, and arts organisations seeking advice on ways to make their projects, programmes, and content more accessible. We are aware that many of our members have valuable lived experience and may be keen to help create a more inclusive industry. Following our recent - [Get Involved](https://soundwithoutsight.org/get-involved/) - Get Involved This page includes information on how to create an account and contribute to the project, sign up to the mailing list, donate, and connect to the project's socials. Register to contribute Please click the button below to create an account so that you can contribute to the project. This will allow you to - [About the Project](https://soundwithoutsight.org/mission/) - About the Project Introduction Sound Without Sight is a new non-profit initiative, aimed at supporting blind and partially sighted people in the fields of audio and music. We will: showcase talent within our community, highlight how accessibility barriers can be overcome, combine collective knowledge, and challenge stereotypes. Why is this important? Music may seem like - [Our Team](https://soundwithoutsight.org/team/) - Our Team Core team members Jay Pocknell - Project ManagerMusic Support Officer, RNIB; Freelance Mixing Engineer; Producer Sam Kenyon - Community LeadElectronic music producer, promoter, label owner Tilly Gerra - Community LeadMusician and journalism student Steering group Peter Bosher - Community Engagement LeadBBC Sound Engineer; Assistive Technology Trainer; Founder of VIBE email group for VI - [Resources](https://soundwithoutsight.org/resources/) - Please search resources using the search box above, or select an option below. Featured content Knowledge Hub News and opportunities Share a resource Other community groups and forums - [Knowledge Hub](https://soundwithoutsight.org/resources/knowledge-hub/) - Knowledge Hub Welcome to the Sound Without Sight knowledge hub. You are not currently logged in, but can still browse the information that others have contributed to the hub. To contribute, please register or log in. . You are currently logged in. You can contribute resources, browse all community resources, or select individual categories below. Share - [Community and Events](https://soundwithoutsight.org/community/) - Welcome, you are logged in. Please select an option below. Join next webinar Join next Drop-in Session Subscribe to newsletter Join a community-led user testing panel Log in My profile Log out - [Join our closed user testing panel](https://soundwithoutsight.org/community/user-testing/join-closed-panel/) - Event feedback Simply fill in the following form to express your interest in being part of invite-only tests for music and audio software and digital platforms. Thank you for sharing your valuable lived experience and helping to create a more inclusive industry! - [Other Community Groups](https://soundwithoutsight.org/discuss/) - [Contact Us](https://soundwithoutsight.org/contact-us/) - Contact Us Say hello Are you a blind or partially sighted musician or audio engineer, or do you support someone who is? We would love to hear from you, particularly your ideas around how 'Sound Without Sight' could become a useful resource to you. We welcome any comments or suggestions; we very much want to - [Event feedback](https://soundwithoutsight.org/community/event-feedback/) - Event feedback Thank you for attending one of our events. We want to continually improve the experience for attendees, so your feedback is really important to us. - [Producing and reading accessible formats for music notation](https://soundwithoutsight.org/accessible-formats/) - Producing and reading accessible formats for music notation A brief guide to accessible music notation, from the DAISY Consortium and RNIB, 2025 These resources introduce the concepts of accessible music notation transcription, describing the process of using automated tools to convert standard scores into accessible formats for musicians with print-disabilities. This guide was produced as - [Share a Resource](https://soundwithoutsight.org/resources/knowledge-hub/share-a-resource/) - Share a Resource on the Knowledge Hub Please share your resource using the form below. This could be a link to an existing external resource, or a new article based on your own experience with creating music or accessing audio engineering. Thanks in advance for helping us to collate useful information that will support the - [Share a News Article](https://soundwithoutsight.org/share-a-news-article/) - Share a News Article or Opportunity Please share a news article with our members using the form below. This could be a link to an existing external news article about music-making or audio engineering, or an opportunity that may be of interest to our community. Thanks in advance for helping us to collate useful information - [Community Lead application: mock content submission](https://soundwithoutsight.org/get-involved/community-lead-application-mock-content-submission/) - Community Lead application: mock content submission Congratulations on being shortlisted for interview! Before we meet each other, we would like to give you the opportunity to demonstrate your content creation skills. Therefore, we are asking you to submit a short piece that you think would be of interest to blind or partially sighted musicians or - [Jay Pocknell](https://soundwithoutsight.org/team/jay-pocknell/) - Jay Pocknell Project Manager, Sound Without Sight Background: Music Support Officer, RNIB; Freelance Mixing and Mastering Engineer Other experience in: music production, studio engineering, artist development, A&R, event curation, marketing, video editing, employment and welfare support. "As a sight-impaired musician, I first considered plans for a project in 2018. I was achieving my dream of - [Register: round table on teaching braille music](https://soundwithoutsight.org/teaching-braille-music-roundtable/) - Register: round table on teaching braille music Online: Friday 7 March 2025, 1100-1300 GMT/UTC Register below by 5 March Description An international forum for blind and sighted braille music teachers to share experiences, challenges and best practices around teaching braille music, and to plan for the future. Hosted by: DAISY Consortium & Royal National Institute - [Community Platform Survey](https://soundwithoutsight.org/community-platform-survey/) - DRAFT Survey: Community Platform Requirements Introduction We would like to determine whether an online network would be valuable to visually impaired musicians and audio engineers, and how such a network should be structured to have the biggest impact. Anyone connected to music, audio, or sight loss is welcome to answer this survey, but we are - [test zoom registration](https://soundwithoutsight.org/test-zoom-registration/) - [Activity](https://soundwithoutsight.org/activity/) - [Members](https://soundwithoutsight.org/members/) - [Activate](https://soundwithoutsight.org/activate/) - [bp-register](https://soundwithoutsight.org/bp-register/) - [Dave Williams](https://soundwithoutsight.org/team/dave-williams/) - Dave Williams Project Advisor, Sound Without Sight Background: Inclusive Design Ambassador, RNIB; Chair, Braillists Foundation Other experience in: accessible technology product management; community media production and presentation. Dave champions and promotes inclusive design principles to ensure equal access and opportunities for blind and partially sighted people. Dave works to drive change and enhance accessibility across - [Register](https://soundwithoutsight.org/register/) - Register You are already logged in. Please log out if you would like to create another user account. - [Peter Bosher](https://soundwithoutsight.org/team/peter-bosher/) - Peter Bosher Community Engagement Lead, Sound Without Sight Background: Audio Producer; Sound Engineer, BBC; Assistive Music TechnologyTrainer, SoundLinks; Trustee, TAVIP (Technology Association of VisuallyImpaired People) Other experience in: creation of the VIBE email list for visually impaired musicians; many musical roles; project management; studio management “In 2020, I brought together a steering group consisting of - [Dr. Tony Stockman](https://soundwithoutsight.org/team/tony-stockman/) - Dr. Tony Stockman Background: Research; assistive technology; digital audio; haptics; sonification; music. Dr Tony Stockman has over 30 years of experience with Assistive Technology as a user, developer and evaluator of new assistive products. He has a history of active involvement in projects to support visually impaired musicians and more generally to improve accessibility for - [Log In](https://soundwithoutsight.org/log-in/) - Log in Haven't yet registered? Register here. You are already logged in. Home Log out - [Terms of Use](https://soundwithoutsight.org/terms-of-use/) - Terms of Use Introduction The following terms and conditions (collectively, these “Terms and Conditions” or the “Agreement”) apply to your use of the Sound Without Sight website, soundwithoutsight.org, including any content, functionality and services (collectively the “Services”) offered on or via soundwithoutsight.org (the “Website”). Please read the Terms and Conditions carefully before you begin using - [Privacy Policy](https://soundwithoutsight.org/privacy-policy/) - Privacy Policy Introduction At Sound Without Sight, we are committed to the protection and management of any personal identifiable information that you share with us. This Privacy Policy outlines the care and respect with which we treat your personal identifiable information. Our details In this policy, “we”, “us” and “our” refer to the Sound Without - [Accessibility Policy](https://soundwithoutsight.org/accessibility-policy/) - Accessibility Policy Sound Without Sight takes accessibility very seriously and so the usability of this website is important to us. We perform manual accessibility tests in an effort to ensure that any issues are identified and addressed as soon as possible. Occasionally updates to third party components used in our tools, services or plugins on - [User Activation](https://soundwithoutsight.org/user-activation/) - User Activation Your account has been successfully activated and, once logged in, you will now be able to contribute to the community areas of Sound Without Sight. Thanks for being part of the project! Go to log in page - [Password Reset](https://soundwithoutsight.org/lostpassword/) - Password Reset - [Log In](https://soundwithoutsight.org/topics/log-in/) - [discussion_board_login_form] [is_logged_in]You are already logged in[/is_logged_in] - [New Topic](https://soundwithoutsight.org/topics/new-topic/) - [discussion_board_form] - [Topics](https://soundwithoutsight.org/topics/) - [discussion_topics] [new_topic_button] ## Community Articles - [A brief introduction to software tools used for accessible format conversion](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/a-brief-introduction-to-software-tools-used-for-accessible-format-conversion/) - This is Part 2 of our ‘Accessible Formats in Music Education’ resources. Here, we take an introductory look at some of the tools that you can use to create accessible music scores. Music notation programs coupled with specialist music braille converter programs provide a powerful way to create accessible music for print-disabled musicians – as long as - [The accessible format conversion process in more detail](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/the-accessible-format-conversion-process-in-more-detail/) - This is Part 4 of our 'Accessible Formats in Music Education' resources. It describes the transcription process in more detail, from how to find or create a file, convert it, and check the resulting output. 1. How to find a file to convert You can get a file in a number of ways, depending on - [Accessible formats for music notation in more detail](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/accessible-formats-for-music-notation-in-more-detail/) - This is Part 3 of our 'Accessible Formats in Music Education' resources. It provides further on accessible music formats such as Modified Stave Notation and braille music. It also explores how digital music score source files provide an accessible option for some musicians. Introduction As mentioned in Part 1, musicians with print impairments who cannot - [Using software to display music scores in large print](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/using-software-to-display-music-scores-in-large-print/) - Introduction If you are a partially sighted musician wanting to display your sheet music in large print, then there are several software options to explore. If you are starting with a print or PDF score, then you may wish to try forScore (for iOS or Mac) or Power Music AF (for Windows). Both these apps - [Reaper accessibility - a list of resources](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/reaper-accessibility-a-list-of-resources/) - Reaper is a very popular Digital Audio Workstation for audio content creators and music producers alike, due to it being more affordable and flexible than other mainstream software options. However it’s considered a favourite amongst blind musicians due to its potential for screen reader accessibility. As you may have discovered by now, there is a - [An overview of accessible formats for music notation and their production processes](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/an-overview-of-accessible-formats-for-music-notation-and-their-production-processes/) - This is Part 1 of our ‘Accessible Formats in Music Education’ resources. It gives a broad overview of accessible formats for music notation and suggested processes for producing (“transcribing to”) them. We will explore these topics in more detail in Parts 2, 3 and 4 of this presentation. Introduction Musicians with print-disabilities require access to scores for - [Using MuseScore Studio with a screen reader](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/using-musescore-studio-with-a-screen-reader/) - MuseScore Accessibility: guides describing how to access MuseScore for screen-reader users: https://musescore.org/en/handbook/3/accessibility/ - [Experimental OSARA REAPER extension port now available for Linux](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/osara-reaper-extension-now-available-for-linux/) - OSARA is a widely-used accessibility extension for REAPER, designed for Windows and macOS. However, Cody Tyler Hurst has recently ported the code to Linux, with most functionality supported. You can read more about the supported functionality and limitations at the link below. Via GitHub: A Linux port of OSARA — accessibility for the REAPER digital audio workstation. - [Accessing open mic nights and other local opportunities](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/accessing-open-mic-nights-and-other-local-opportunities/) - Making music as a blind or partially sighted musician can involve challenges that have little to do with musical ability. Getting to a venue, navigating an unfamiliar stage, setting up equipment, learning new software or explaining your access requirements can sometimes take as much energy as the music itself. The good news is that other - [Employment support for blind and partially sighted musicians](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/employment-support-for-blind-and-partially-sighted-musicians/) - The music industry can feel daunting at times, and it can be hard to ask for help when we need it, or even to know what to ask for. We’ve put together this guide so that you can quickly find the relevant resources and organisations, as well as funding for access support. Access to Work - [Roland V-STAGE Performance Keyboard accessibility guide](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/roland-v-stage-performance-keyboard-accessibility-guide/) - Roland has published new accessibility support materials for visually impaired musicians who own (or want to own) a Roland V-Stage Performance Keyboard. Developed by Roland Future Design Lab in collaboration with accessibility consultant Jason Dasent, these support materials include all new screen reader-friendly written guides, audio guides, and videos for blind or partially sighted people. - [Introduction to ReaKontrol - REAPER extension for Native Instruments Kontrol keyboards](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/introduction-to-reakontrol-reaper-extension-for-native-instruments-kontrol-keyboards/) - If you have attempted to use REAPER with Native Instruments Kontrol keyboards, you may have noticed that some features were limited compared to officially-supported DAWs such as Logic Pro and Ableton Live. However, the open source community have developed an extension to support deep integration, similar to what you would find with other DAWs. In - [Summary: Accessibility in Audio Tech - Audio Developer Conference 2025](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/summary-accessibility-in-audio-tech-audio-developer-conference-2025/) - We are happy to share that the recording from the Accessibility in Audio Tech workshop at Audio Developer Conference 2025 is now available. The session brought together audio developers, accessibility specialists, musicians, and disabled creators to discuss how the audio industry can build more inclusive tools and workflows. The central message was that accessibility should - [Field Spectrum - An Accessible Spectral Clip View & Timeline for Ableton Live](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/field-spectrum-an-accessible-spectral-clip-view-timeline-for-ableton-live/) - Hello everyone, it’s Iftah. I have just released Field Spectrum, an alternative spectral clip view and timeline for Ableton Live. It is fully accessible to blind, visually impaired, and sighted users. It is designed for field recordists, featuring fast analysis, a fluid and responsive display, 11 color themes including options for color blindness, very low - [Clip Announcer — Accessible Clip Navigation for Ableton Live](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/clip-announcer-accessible-clip-navigation-for-ableton-live/) - My name is Hunter Wiley. I am a music producer, educator, and developer focused on accessibility in music technology. My work in audio tooling is centered on helping make creative tools more usable for people who are blind or have low vision, so that music production can be more independent, flexible, and artistically empowering. Clip - [Braille music hub - compilation of resources](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/braille-music-hub/) - Sound Without Sight Presentation: Joining the Dots: Braille Music in the 21st Century Panel discussion: approaches to learning music with a visual impairment Demo: using MuseScore Studio with a screen reader to compose and explore MusicXML scores. Demo: using Sao Mai Braille (SMB) to translate MusicXML scores to braille. RNIB Braille music main page. Braille - [SM BungSang braille music translator app now available for macOS](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/sm-bungsang-braille-music-translator-app-now-available-for-macos/) - Shared on behalf of Dang Hoai Phúc, Executive Director, Sao Mai Center for the Blind (SMCB): Dear Colleagues and Friends, Sao Mai Center for the Blind is pleased to officially release SM BungSang, the first native and free braille music translation app for macOS. The app converts MusicXML files into high-quality, accurately formatted braille scores. - [Schwung: third-party accessibility enhancements for Ableton Move](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/move-everything-third-party-accessibility-enhancements-for-ableton-move/) - Andre Louis has just dropped a complete overview of Schwung - a third-party add-on that unlocks additional accessibility capabilities within the Ableton Live device, including an onboard screen reader. In true Andre fashion we get a masterclass demonstration of how to construct a song on the fly. He uses a combination of the Move and - [Transom: Why (and How) to Hire a Blind Producer](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/transom-why-and-how-to-hire-a-blind-producer/) - This article from Transom explores why hiring blind audio producers is not only an equity issue but a creative and editorial advantage. It argues that blind producers often bring heightened listening skills, strong attention to sonic detail, and a natural inclination toward rich, scene-driven storytelling—qualities that are central to compelling audio work. The piece highlights real-world experiences - [Using Windows' Magnifier tool to help access visual app interfaces if you have low vision](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/using-windows-magnifier-tool-to-help-access-visual-app-interfaces-if-you-have-low-vision/) - Here is a very short demo showing how I use the Windows Screen Magnifier to navigate a very visual plugin interface, in this case VCV Rack. There is also a brief overview of using a CCTV magnifier with a hardware synth, and how I use puff paint and bump dots to occasionally mark controls on - [Tips for blind music teachers with sighted students](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/tips-for-blind-music-teachers-with-sighted-students/) - Introduction The biggest concerns of most blind teachers when contemplating how they can teach sighted students usually fall in to three main areas: “How can I know what the student is looking at on their book?”, “How can I know if their hand shape, posture, technique, etc is correct?”, and “How can I effectively communicate - [Grants for visually impaired organists - Alfred Hollins Memorial Fund](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/grants-for-visually-impaired-organists-alfred-hollins-memorial-fund/) - About the scheme Applications are now open for the Alfred Hollins Memorial Fund, founded by The Scottish Federation of Organists. The funding scheme is aimed at providing support to any aspiring organists from the blind community. In recent years there has been a decrease in applications however this scheme is a great opportunity for people - [Native Instruments Kontrol MK3 accessibility tutorial with Andre Louis](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/native-instruments-kontrol-mk3-accessibility-tutorial-with-andre-louis/) - Musician Andre Louis has just dropped a new in-depth tutorial dedicated to showcasing the newest updates on the Kontrol Mk3. Presenting a non-biased example of the accessibility functions of the keyboard, as well as its ability to control your chosen DAW. The Kontrol Mk3 is a great option for many blind or partially sighted musicians - [Unlimited: how to advocate for fair pay as a creative](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/unlimited-how-to-advocate-for-fair-pay-as-a-creative/) - Unlimited have released a free course which aims to stop “the exploitation of disabled creatives and arts workers (and all other creatives too).” The course is “full of practical steps you can take to communicate your value and politely demand better treatment.” Learn more and complete the course - [Attitude is Everything's Accessible Funding Guide and video series](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/attitude-is-everythings-accessible-funding-guide-video-series/) - Attitude is Everything have released an Accessible Funding Guide video series. The project is aimed at creatives with accessibility needs, and “is all about demystifying the funding process through the experiences of our members.” “Each episode will feature key insights, advice and experiences from artists and music industry professionals.” Watch all available episodes here. As - [How Komplete Kontrol is changing the game for visually impaired musicians](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/how-komplete-kontrol-is-changing-the-game-for-visually-impaired-musicians/) - Native Instruments have designed a range of MIDI controller keyboards that can be used for music production and live performance. They work with the screen reader on a connected device to provide speech feedback for all functions, as well as providing an optimised, tactile workflow for blind users. Learn more about Komplete Kontrol We will - [Guide to investing in young musicians with vision impairment](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/guide-to-investing-in-young-musicians-with-vision-impairment/) - Introduction Everyone working with children and young people with vision impairment should liaise on how to make music education accessible: the school, the local authority VI team, the music tutor, and Music Hub staff. However, through surveying Music Education Hubs in 2023, RNIB found that very few were aware of the number of children and - [Feel the Notation: treble and bass clef symbols as braille graphics](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/feel-the-notation-treble-and-bass-clef-symbols-as-braille-graphics/) - From livingbraille.eu: Today, thanks to James Bowden, we are filling a small gap in our knowledge about music and combining it with Braille in a wonderful way.So far, we know how Braille music notation works in principle and that it is structured differently from music notation for sighted people.What we don’t yet know, however, is - [Resources for accessing Logic Pro and GarageBand](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/logic-band-resources-for-accessing-logic-pro-and-garageband/) - Logic Pro is a popular and comprehensive digital audio workstation (DAW) for macOS. It also has a less complex 'younger sibling', GarageBand, which is included free with all Macs. Both apps are available for iOS devices too, though the majority of the resources below are for the macOS version. Resources Learning how to comprehensively use - [TOCSOC - The O'Carolan Society of Blind Harpists Worldwide](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/tocsoc-the-ocarolan-society-of-blind-harpists-worldwide/) - I have established a society for blind harpists worldwide. There have been many blind harpists in history, and yet, our instrument has been made all but inaccessible to us blind people due to its excessively expensive pricing and lack of accessible music. We have a Facebook page and group, monthly Zoom meetings are planned and - [RNIB Connect Radio: Shaun Hayward on making and recording music as a blind or partially sighted person](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/rnib-connect-radio-shaun-hayward-on-making-and-recording-music-as-a-blind-or-partially-sighted-person/) - From RNIB Connect Radio: As a blind or partially sighted person have you ever thought about setting up your own recording studio and producing your own music? Well RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up with Shaun Hayward, a blind musician and ballroom dancer who in the early 2000s set up a basement studio in - [Accessibility in Ableton Live 12](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/coverage-of-accessibility-in-ableton-live-12/) - Ableton Live is a digital audio workstation for macOS and Windows. As well as being a tool for composing, recording, and producing, Live is designed to be an instrument for live performances. Quite rightly, Ableton has been lauded for the work done towards making Live screen reader friendly from version 12 onwards. We hope to cover this in-depth in the future, but for now here - [How do I find a music teacher in the UK?](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/how-do-i-find-a-music-teacher-in-the-uk/) - Ideas for discovering music teachers who have experience with supporting the access requirements of blind or partially sighted musicians. - [RNIB Library and Transcription services](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/rnib-library-and-transcription-services/) - RNIB's catalogues RNIB has music collections in both its leisure and education catalogues: Its leisure collection - RNIB Library - includes braille music scores. Blind or partially sighted people based in the UK can register for RNIB Library for free. Its education collection - RNIB Bookshare - includes PDF copies of music books that have - [How to purchase accessible event tickets](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/how-to-purchase-accessible-event-tickets/) - Most UK venues and festivals offer free Personal Assistant (aka carer or companion) tickets for attendees who need them. However, it is worth noting that applications for PA tickets can close some time ahead of general admission sales. This can unfortunately mean that disabled attendees are excluded from buying resale tickets or waiting until close - [UKAAF 'Journey through braille music' podcast series](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/ukaaf-journey-through-braille-music-podcast-series/) - A six part bitesize series covering braille music concepts, produced by UKAAF - the UK Association of Accessible Formats. Episode 1 This history and background to braille music. - [APH Library: Blind Musicians Collection Listening Station](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/aph-library-blind-musicians-collection-listening-station/) - From American Printing House for the Blind: Do you know a blind or low-vision artist who has recorded music? We would love to preserve their legacy, alongside other greats like Stevie Wonder, Andrea Bocelli, W. C. Handy, and many others featured in our Blind Musicians Collection at the APH Library. The APH Library recently received - [DAISY Engraving Guidelines: using music notation tools to create accessible scores](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/daisy-engraving-guidelines-using-music-notation-tools-to-create-accessible-scores/) - Do you create music scores using notation software? The DAISY Consortium has published guidelines for engravers and music setters to ensure that music scores are 'born accessible'. Following these guidelines will ensure the creation of well-structured MusicXML master files, which will be suitable for onward conversion to accessible formats such as braille and Modified Stave - [Video: Let's Move! Ableton Move accessibility overview by Andre Louis](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/video-lets-move-ableton-move-accessibility-overview-by-andre-louis/) - Introduction Move is Ableton's new portable hardware sequencer and sampler, and offers an intuitive way to sketch ideas across 4 tracks. Performances can be edited on the unit itself, or transferred to Ableton Live 12 for further tweaking or fleshing out. Last week, Andre Louis demoed Move as part of the 'Inclusive Design within Audio - [TAVIP Masterclass: Accessible Podcast Production](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/tavip-masterclass-accessible-podcast-production/) - TAVIP, the Technology Association of Visually Impaired People, has published an overview of accessible podcast production. Presenter: Dave WilliamsInclusive Design Ambassador, RNIBHost: RNIB Tech TalkFounder: BrailleCast, Braillists FoundationFormer Director of ACB Radio, American Council of the Blind The session notes and resources provided by Dave Williams are included below and on TAVIP's website. The recording - [Video: How a blind producer uses a DAW, with Andre Louis](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/video-how-a-blind-producer-uses-a-daw-with-andre-louis/) - From Fracture Sounds' YouTube channel: "Today we are joined by Andre Louis (‪@TheOnjLouis‬) as he shows us his workflow as a blind music producer, using Logic, VoiceOver and NKS sample libraries by Fracture Sounds." Watch video Learn more about the instruments Andre uses at https://fracturesounds.com/ - [Overview of Accessible Notation](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/overview-of-accessible-notation/) - Difficulties accessing standard-print music notation can be a barrier for blind and partially sighted musicians, but a range of solutions are available. Physical Scores If you are looking for a physical copy of an accessible score, there are two main options: large print (also known as Modified Stave Notation or MSN) and braille music. Modified - [Garth Humphreys' ReaProducer accessible Reaper tutorials](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/garth-humphreys-reaproducer-accessible-reaper-tutorials/) - During lockdown in 2020, I decided it was time for me to learn how to use Reaper. I wanted to be able to record myself as a singer and I was also interested in learning music production and get into podcasting. Being totally blind, I wanted an easy, accessible resource so I could learn the - [Demo: VOCR 2.0 for Mac with Chi Kim and Andre Louis](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/demo-vocr-2-0-for-mac-with-chi-kim-and-andre-louis/) - [From Andre Louis on Logic Accessibility Google Group]: If you're a Mac user and also one that relies on VoiceOver, then you may already be familiar with VOCR. If you use VoiceOver but don't use VOCR, well now's the best time to start doing that.If you're an existing user, this update will hopefully put a - [Other communities and groups for VI musicians and audio engineers](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/other-communities-and-groups-for-vi-musicians-and-audio-engineers/) - [Writing a song from scratch](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/writing-a-song-from-scratch/) - Somebody shared a resource with me that I thought would benefit other songwriters, particularly beginners, but experienced songwriters could use this as inspiration as well. How To Write A Song FROM SCRATCH | Melodic EDM Tutorial As the title suggests, the focus is on EDM music, however, while the structure may differ slightly, the method - [UKAAF Introduction to automated braille music transcription](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/ukaaf-introduction-to-automated-braille-music-transcription/) - The UK Association of Accessible Formats (UKAAF) has put together a document exploring the different tools and options available for automated braille music transcription. It details the process of engraving a score from a print copy, exporting to MusicXML, importing into a braille music translation tool, and converting to electronic braille music. This is the - [KK-Access website for Komplete Kontrol information](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/kk-access-website-for-komplete-kontrol-information/) - The KK-Access website is dedicated to everything connected to the world of Native Instruments and its range of Komplete Kontrol accessible MIDI controller keyboards. Whether it's hardware, software, sample libraries, VST plug-ins, news, or reviews, it's the primary source for knowledge and information surrounding Komplete Kontrol. Curated by Chris Ankin, an industry review writer with - [Guitar lessons and resources](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/guitar-lessons-and-resources/) - Online lessons Justin Guitar Jerry's Guitar Bar Guitar by Ear, from Bill Brown's 'Music for the Blind' audio-described lesson series Guitar and gear reviews from retailer YouTube channels PMTV UK Bax Music YouTube channel - [Top MIDI Guitar Choices Worldwide](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/top-midi-guitar-choices-worldwide/) - Here you can find some options for MIDI guitars. https://ombguitars.com/top-midi-guitar-choices-worldwide-unveiling-the-best-options/ - [Toni Barth Music - Reaper screen reader tutorials and more](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/toni-barth-music-reaper-screen-reader-tutorials-and-more/) - Toni Barth Music is a Youtube channel where he shares many aspects of using the Reaper DAW with a screen reader. There is a lot of information about Reaper itself, as well as how to use certain plugins such as Kontakt and Surge XT. https://www.youtube.com/@tonibarthmusic - [Experimental: Trigger 2 for the blind in Logic with VoiceOver](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/experimental-trigger-2-for-the-blind-in-logic-with-voiceover/) - Introduction Trigger 2 is a popular drum replacement / sample augmentation plugin developed by Steven Slate Drums. It has over 2GB of stock samples with many more packs available, like the CLA expantion pack. However, it has been very difficult or impossible to get trigger to actively play a sample on a channel it's inserted - [Accessible podcast equipment](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/accessible-podcast-equipment/) - Introduction Depending on the device you use, there are a several options for accessible recording of podcasts and voiceover cues. I would recommend first reading the following two "Basics" articles, written by Peter Bosher, before coming back here for more specific information about podcasting. Basics — Recording Basics — Hardware Software: Windows and Mac options - [Funding organisations for blind and visually impaired musicians](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/funding-organisations-for-blind-and-visually-impaired-musicians/) - Whether you are visually impaired or not, a career or education in music will take some financing. The competitive nature of the music industry often expects early-career musicians to work voluntarily, and on top of this, blind or partially sighted musicians may be presented with additional financial barriers, including: Time to find solutions to access - [Best Guitar Synth Pedals 2023](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/best-guitar-synth-pedals-2023/) - Look here for some potential options and suggestions of guitar pedals. https://equipboard.com/posts/best-guitar-synth-pedals - [Bill Brown's 'Music For The Blind' audio-described instrument courses](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/bill-browns-music-for-the-blind-audio-described-instrument-courses/) - There are a number of audio described, notation free, courses available to support you to learn a number of instruments by ear, including: Piano / keyboard Guitar Bass Banjo Saxophone Violin Mandolin Flute Harmonica Ukulele Drums Penny Whistle Trumpet You can purchase the introductory courses at the following link: https://www.musicfortheblind.com/ Once you have mastered the - [Basics - Recording](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/basics-recording/) - Basics about capturing sound. - [Basics - Editing](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/basics-editing/) - Introductory overview about editing audio. - [Basics - Mixing and DAWs](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/basics-mixing-and-daws/) - Introductory overview about mixing and DAWs. - [Basics - Hardware](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/basics-hardware/) - Introductory overview about hardware used for audio production and mixing. - [Using Sibelius with a screen-reader](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/using-sibelius-with-a-screen-reader/) - Sibelius Tutorial for Screen Reader Users, a series of tutorials produced by the Assistive Music Technology Lab at Berklee College of Music: https://sibaccess.github.io/ - [An Introduction to Accessible Audio Programming](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/an-introduction-to-accessible-audio-programming/) - I have begun writing a series of articles titled 'Audio Programming Unseen', focusing on supporting blind and visually impaired people to access audio programming. You can read the first article at the link below: Audio Programming Unseen: an introduction - [DAISY Teaching and Learning Resources for Music Braille](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/daisy-teaching-and-learning-resources-for-music-braille/) - [From daisy.org] Our goal was to make it easier for blind and sighted people to locate suitable resources for learning and teaching music braille, depending on their personal situation. We have collated the most commonly cited resources from across the sector, grouped by user-need and language, which we hope will help you to locate the - [Accessing support - advice from Help Musicians](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/accessing-support-advice-from-help-musicians/) - The following link contains information published by Help Musicians, a charity for professional musicians of all genres, both in work and retirement. They provide support at times of crisis, but also at times of opportunity, giving people the support they need at the crucial stages that could make or break their career. https://www.helpmusicians.org.uk/get-support/develop-as-a-musician/advice - [Able Artist Foundation - access discounts to music software and hardware products](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/able-artist-foundation-access-discounts-to-music-software-and-hardware-products/) - Able Artist Foundation (AAF) serves creative adults with disabilities who are low-income. Their mission is two-fold: provide access to purchase music hardware and software products at a substantial discount that are provided by many generous international partners, and to develop opportunities to advance music production fluency and work opportunities. Able Artist Foundation was created by - [The Amber Trust - Providing musical opportunities for blind and partially sighted children](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/the-amber-trust-providing-musical-opportunities-for-blind-and-partially-sighted-children/) - The Amber Trust provide grants to help fund music lessons, purchase equipment, and fund other musical opportunities for blind and partially sighted people up to the age of 18 in the UK. Visit the Amber Trust website - [RNIB Music Advisory Service](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/rnib-music-advisory-service/) - The RNIB's Music Advisory Service (MAS) supports people with sight loss in any aspect of making music. This includes, but not limited to funding advice, music notation and transcription, accessible audio production, networking, maintaining well-being, etc. https://www.rnib.org.uk/living-with-sight-loss/community-connection-and-wellbeing/leisure/music/ - [RAMPD (Recording Artists and Music Professionals with Disabilities)](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/rampd-recording-artists-and-music-professionals-with-disabilities/) - Connecting the Music and Entertainment industry to a Global Network of established Recording Artists and Music Professionals with Disabilities. RAMPD's mission is to amplify Disability Culture, promote equitable inclusion and advocate for accessibility in the music industry. RAMPD connects the music, entertainment and event industries to a fast-growing global network of established music professionals with - [Attitude is Everything - supporting disabled professionals in the UK music industry](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/attitude-is-everything-supporting-disabled-professionals-in-the-uk-music-industry/) - Attitude Is Everything is a UK-based charity that aims to connect disabled people with music and live event industries to improve access together. From their website: "Our vision is to see music and live event industries valuing disabled people as audience members, performers, professionals and volunteers. Our work won’t stop until this becomes the norm. - [PRS for Music - article on accessibility for visually impaired musicians](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/prs-for-music-article-on-accessibility-for-visually-impaired-musicians/) - PRS for Music's M-Magazine discusses accessibility within the music industry for visually impaired musicians and outline research correlating the link between visual impairment and music. https://www.prsformusic.com/m-magazine/features/access-all-areas-improving-inclusion-for-visually-impaired-artists - [Dancing Dots' software](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/dancing-dots-software/) - From the website – Dancing Dots offers technology, educational resources and training to assist blind people to read, write, and record their music. Our products and services foster inclusion, literacy and independence for visually impaired musicians and audio producers engaged in educational, leisure, and professional pursuits. https://www.dancingdots.com/ Software packages include: GOODFEEL Braille Music Translator: talking - [GOODFEEL email list](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/goodfeel-email-list/) - This is where users of GOODFEEL can subscribe and receive email updates and information. https://www.freelists.org/list/goodfeel - [Audacity - a free multitrack audio editor](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/audacity-a-free-multitrack-audio-editor/) - Are you interested in music or podcast producing, but not yet ready to tackle more complex softwares like Logic Pro and Reaper? Or perhaps you’re looking for an affordable and accessible audio editing tool? Then it may be worth considering Audacity; a free multi-track audio editor. Although Audacity only offers very basic tools for music - [Screen reader friendly guitar chord descriptions](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/screen-reader-friendly-guitar-chord-descriptions/) - Access text descriptions of where to place the fingers on the fretboard. Choose the chord root (e.g. C, A-flat, F-sharp) and the chord mode (e.g. major, minor, seventh) using the dropdowns at the link below. Submitting your choices will return a description of how to play the chord. https://www.standardguitar.com/accessible-guitar-chords - [Drake Music's advice for securing funding as a disabled musician](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/drake-musics-advice-for-securing-funding-as-a-disabled-musician/) - Guides for accessing Arts Council England and PRS Foundation funding. https://www.drakemusic.org/music/projects-commissions-participation/digitalconnect/funding-advice-for-disabled-musicians/ - [Teaching music to visually impaired students](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/teaching-music-to-visually-impaired-students/) - Here, you can find tips, advice, ideas on how to provide accessible music lessons. RNIB's 'Guide to teaching music to pupils with vision impairment' Macular Society's 'Tips for teaching music to vision impaired students' - [The UK Association for Accessible Formats' Music Subject Area](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/the-uk-association-for-accessible-formats-music-subject-area/) - The UK Association for Accessible Formats (UKAAF) have a Music Subject Area, which discusses developments in accessible music notation. You can read more about the groups, and access some resources, at the following link: https://www.ukaaf.org/sectors/ - [The basics of music publishing rights](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/the-basics-of-music-publishing-rights/) - You can access some basic explanations and tips regarding music publishing at the following link: https://www.prsformusic.com/m-magazine/how-to/how-to-understanding-publishing-rights - [Accessing Pro Tools](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/accessing-pro-tools/) - As previously discussed, Pro Tools is an industry standard digital audio workstation, which enables musicians to create music using audio tracks, samples, effects, virtual instruments, etc.. PTAccess - tutorials for screen reader users Here is a guide to a step-by-step process on how to access and use Pro Tools —a software which enables musicians to - [Dancing Dots GOODFEEL 4 Tutorial (SharpEye, Lime and GOODFEEL)](https://soundwithoutsight.org/hub-articles/dancing-dots-goodfeel-4-tutorial-sharpeye-lime-and-goodfeel/) - Here is a direct link to Dancing Dots' tutorials, which explains the intended uses and main functions of each component in the GOODFEEL suite. https://www.dancingdots.com/tsgf4/gf4tutorial.htm ## News Articles - [Paid opportunity (UK): Work with us! We're looking for two Community Leads](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/paid-opportunity-uk-work-with-us-were-looking-for-two-community-leads/) - We are very excited to share that we are now recruiting for two young people, who will help us drive the Sound Without Sight initiative across the music industry. - [Sound Without Sight update – your ideas wanted!](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/sound-without-sight-update-your-ideas-wanted/) - I am incredibly happy to share that Sound Without Sight has received a grant from RNIB’s Elizabeth Eagle-Bott Memorial Fund for the second year running. Firstly, I would like to say on behalf of everyone involved with the project, that we are very grateful for last year’s support, which allowed us to build the structure - [Opportunity (Scotland): Showcase Scotland at English Folk Expo 2027](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-scotland-showcase-scotland-at-english-folk-expo-2027/) - Deadline: 11.59pm, Sunday 6 September 2026. Scottish folk, roots, acoustic and traditional artists have an exciting opportunity to reach new audiences and industry contacts through Showcase Scotland Expo’s partnership with English Folk Expo (EFEx) 2027. Showcase Scotland Expo is inviting applications from Scottish-based artists to be considered for a special Scottish showcase at English Folk Expo - [Funding: UK Artist Touring Fund](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/funding-uk-artist-touring-fund/) - Deadline: Friday 11 September 2026 Touring remains a vital part of building a music career, but rising travel, accommodation, production and staffing costs are making it increasingly difficult for artists to make grassroots and mid-sized tours financially viable. The UK Artist Touring (UKAT) Fund has been created to help address this challenge. Developed by the Featured Artists Coalition - [Flo Tools 2026.8 released](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/flo-tools-2026-8-released/) - The team behind Flo Tools, a screen reader workflow enhancement for Pro Tools, have released the first new version in 3 years. This is mainly a maintenance release to keep up-to-date with changes to menu and button labels in Pro Tools. However, it also brings the following changes: Support for Pro Tools First has been - [Event (London and online): Drake Music Artist Showcase 2026](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-london-and-online-drake-music-artist-showcase-2026/) - 24 October 2026 | 6.30pm | LSO St Luke’s Experience an evening of bold new music, fresh perspectives and extraordinary emerging talent at the Drake Music Artist Showcase 2026. Taking place at LSO St Luke’s in London on Saturday 24 October at 6.30pm, this annual showcase celebrates five early-career Disabled musicians from the Drake Music Collective. - [Opportunity: Diversity Scholarships for ADC Bristol 2026](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-diversity-scholarships-for-adc-bristol-2026/) - Deadline: 21 September 2026 The Audio Developer Conference (ADC) is continuing its commitment to making the audio development community more diverse, inclusive and accessible with its Diversity Scholarship programme for ADC Bristol 2026. The scholarship offers an opportunity for people who may otherwise face barriers to attending the conference to take part in ADC’s three-day event, - [Coming soon! Our new mentorship programme, supported by Youth Music](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/coming-soon-our-new-mentorship-programme-supported-by-youth-music/) - We’re delighted to share that we have been supported by Youth Music’s Trailblazer Fund to develop and deliver ‘Sonic Horizons’ - a new mentorship programme for aspiring musicians with vision impairment. Feedback from young musicians in our community has been clear: they want the opportunity to connect with mentors who truly understand their lived experience. - [Opportunity (UK and Ireland): Music Gateway – Breakout Artist of 2027](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-and-ireland-music-gateway-breakout-artist-of-2027/) - Deadline: 28 October 2026 at 23:59 GMT. Music Gateway is inviting independent and signed artists across the UK and Republic of Ireland to apply for its Breakout Artist Programme, offering one artist 12 months of promotional support throughout 2027. The programme is designed to provide funding, industry expertise and strategic guidance to help an artist develop their - [Job (UK): VocalEyes – Training and Consultancy Manager](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/job-uk-vocaleyes-training-and-consultancy-manager/) - Deadline: 13 September 2026 at midnight. VocalEyes is recruiting a Training and Consultancy Manager to lead the delivery and development of its training programme and contribute to the organisation’s wider consultancy and advocacy work. This new role offers an opportunity for someone with lived experience of blindness or visual impairment, alongside expertise in training, accessibility and influencing - [Opportunity (UK, Ireland, Nordic countries): NEMO – Northern European Mobility Opportunity](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-ireland-nordic-countries-nemo-northern-european-mobility-opportunity/) - Deadline: 18 September 2026 at 11:59pm CEST The Northern European Mobility Opportunity (NEMO) is a funding programme supporting emerging individual artists and arts practitioners to develop new international collaborations across the Nordic countries, the UK and the Republic of Ireland. Supported by the Nordic Culture Fund and national arts funding agencies, NEMO aims to strengthen - [Next webinar: Pathways into Broadcast](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/next-webinar-pathways-into-broadcast/) - Next session: Thursday 20 August 2026, 7:30pm BST. Pathways into Broadcast. We are excited to announce our next webinar and Q&A, where we will be exploring how to forge a career in the broadcast industry. Join us on Thursday 20 August 2026 – register below! Senior correspondent Sean Dilley and senior journalist Mani Djazmi, both working - [Opportunity (UK): explore free mental health support from Tonic Music](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-explore-free-mental-health-support-from-tonic-music/) - Tonic Music has launched a number of free online workshops that aim to “build confidence and explore ways to support your mental health.” A myriad of free Group Therapy and Peer Support Groups are available, as well as online social gatherings such as their ‘Album Club’. Learn more here. - [Opportunity (England, Scotland, and Wales): Unlimited Partner Awards](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-england-scotland-and-wales-unlimited-partner-awards/) - Deadline: Monday 28 September 2026 Applications are now open for Unlimited’s Partner Awards. There are 11 awards which together total £280,000, and the awards are available to “disabled artists across England, Scotland, and Wales.” “Ranging from £15,000 to £40,000, the awards support the creation of extraordinary new work. This spans theatre, performance, digital media, music, - [Opportunity (UK): Apply for funding from Liveline](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-apply-for-funding-from-liveline/) - Applications for the Liveline scheme are now open. This is “a joint initiative delivered by Music Venue Trust in partnership with Save Our Scene and the Association of Independent Promoters.” It aims to reduce financial risk and remove the “barriers that stop grassroots shows from happening by supporting venues, independent promoters and artists across the - [New research explores accessible string learning for blind and low vision musicians](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/new-research-explores-accessible-string-learning-for-blind-and-low-vision-musicians/) - As shared by The Violin Channel, a new study from researchers at Indiana University Bloomington is exploring how string-instrument education can become more accessible for musicians who are blind or have low vision (BLV). The research examines the challenges BLV musicians face when learning bowed instruments, particularly violin and viola, where traditional teaching often depends - [Opportunity (Bristol, 18-25): mysounds in residence with CoMA](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-bristol-18-25-mysounds-in-residence-with-coma/) - Mysounds have collaborated with CoMA Bristol to launch a “new programme for six 18–25-year-old musicians to develop their creative practice in a supportive and collaborative environment.” The successful applicants will get the chance to perform alongside the CoMA Bristol Ensemble for one term, as well as getting the opportunity to write music for the group - [Survey (UK): mental health in the music industry](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/survey-uk-mental-health-in-the-music-industry/) - The Point One project, in partnership with Music Minds Matter and Habit Partners have launched the largest ever survey on the mental health of those working in the UK music industry. The survey, which has been ethically approved by Goldsmiths (University of London), aims to further understand “what the status of mental health is in - [Survey: accessible digital music and AI](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/survey-accessible-digital-music-and-ai/) - The Accessible Digital Music Network, in collaboration with the ERC G3S Project at Université Paris 8, have launched a survey on accessible digital music and AI. “Anyone who uses digital music tools and identifies as living with a disability or access requirement is warmly invited to participate. The survey covers AI in digital music, spatial - [Paid opportunities: music technology Research Fellow roles at University of the West of England](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/paid-opportunities-music-technology-research-fellow-roles-at-university-of-the-west-of-england/) - Deadline: 6 August 2026 The University of the West of England are currently recruiting for two new Research Fellow roles, which both intersect with accessible music technology innovation: Research Fellow in Digital Musical Instrument Design Applications are invited for the position of Research Fellow in DigitalMusicalInstrument Design to create a new generation of accessible and - [Opportunity (UK, 18-30): OV Theatre Makers – The Old Vic](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-18-30-ov-theatre-makers-the-old-vic/) - Deadline: Thursday 30 July, 10am The Old Vic is inviting applications for OV Theatre Makers, a free six-month training programme for aspiring theatre-makers aged 18–30 across the UK. Designed for those at the start of their creative careers, the programme offers masterclasses with leading theatre professionals, practical training in writing, directing, producing and devising, and the - [Paid opportunity (UK): Performing Arts Lead at Extant](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/paid-opportunity-uk-performing-arts-lead-at-extant/) - Deadline: 25 August 2026 Extant, the UK's leading professional performing arts company championing visually impaired artists, is recruiting two part-time Performing Arts Leads as part of its new collaborative leadership model, The Extant Hive. This co-artistic leadership role will involve shaping the company's artistic vision, developing creative partnerships, leading productions and participation projects, and supporting the - [Pianist and composer Ethan Loch featured in BBC One documentary](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/pianist-and-composer-ethan-loch-featured-in-bbc-one-documentary/) - Part of the 'Our Lives' series, Seeing Through Sound is a moving new BBC One documentary that follows the remarkable journey of 21-year-old Scottish pianist Ethan Loch, who has been blind since birth. The film explores how Ethan experiences and interprets the world through sound, offering an intimate insight into his extraordinary musical talent and unique - [Event (London and online): DMLab 'Accessibility at Festivals' special](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-london-and-online-dmlab-accessibility-at-festivals-special/) - Tuesday 26 July, 6:30 PM to 9 PMNordoff and Robbins, London, England (and live stream online) Join Drake Music for a special DMLab London event exploring how festivals and live events are becoming more accessible, inclusive and welcoming for Deaf, disabled and neurodivergent audiences. Bringing together leading voices from the live events sector, the evening - [Paid opportunity (UK): Archive and Engagement Assistant Intern at VocalEyes](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/paid-opportunity-uk-archive-and-engagement-assistant-intern-at-vocaleyes/) - Applications close: 5pm on Friday 17 July. As VocalEyes prepares to celebrate its 30th anniversary, the charity is recruiting a full-time Archive and Engagement Assistant Intern through the Get Set Progress programme. This paid, nine-month internship offers a unique opportunity to help research, organise and preserve the organisation's history while contributing to its anniversary celebrations. Based in London - [Event (online): Mastering Funding Applications with Disability Arts Online](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-online-mastering-funding-applications-with-disability-arts-online/) - Date: 29 July 2026, 14:00 - 15:30 BST From Disability Arts Online: Join Disability Arts Online (DAO) for a webinar aimed at disabled creatives which demystifies the process of applying for funding. We know securing funding is one of the most daunting but essential parts of being an artist or creative. This webinar will cover: identifying funders - [Event (online): RSBCxAmber Trust Online Music Session](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-online-rsbcxamber-trust-online-music-session/) - Tuesday 18 August, 11:00 - 12:00 BST From the Royal Society for Blind Children on Luma: ​Join RSBC and Amber Trust staff on the 18th August at 11am for an online interactive music session which explores how to use music and sound to engage with your child with a vision impairment. ​This session is suitable - [Event (Hull): Rise Together, Oasis Church Hull's very first independent and inclusive musical festival!](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-hull-rise-together-oasis-church-hulls-very-first-independent-and-inclusive-musical-festival/) - Oasis Church HullSaturday 15th August, from 12 - 9pm Oasis Church Hull are proud to present their very first independent music festival, Rise Together, being held on 15th August this year! Their write-up is as follows: Our very first Independent Music Festival — Rise Together - a celebration of diversity, inclusion, creativity, and community. Saturday - [Next webinar: honing stagecraft and visual presentation as a blind or partially sighted performer](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/next-webinar-honing-stagecraft-and-visual-presentation-as-a-blind-or-partially-sighted-performer/) - Next session: Thursday 16 July 2026, 7:30pm BST. Honing stagecraft and visual presentation as a blind or partially sighted performer. We are excited to announce our next webinar and Q&A. Singer, Actor, and Voiceover Artist, Sandra Gayer will share valuable insight into being "disabled with style" on stage. Sandra will explore how many aspects of stagecraft, both - [Opportunity (England, 18+): Drake Music Emergents 2027](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-england-18-drake-music-emergents-2027/) - Deadline: 4 August 2026 Applications are now open for Drake Music’s Emergents 2027 programme, an exciting professional development opportunity for Disabled early-career music creators living in England. Part of the Drake Music Collective, the programme is designed to help talented artists develop their creative practice, build industry knowledge and expand professional networks through accessible, tailored support. Five - [Introducing our new Drop-in Sessions](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/introducing-our-new-drop-in-sessions/) - Sometimes the most valuable conversations happen when there isn't an agenda. Thanks to support from the Elizabeth Eagle-Bott Memorial Fund, starting in July 2026, we will be hosting a 9-month pilot of open Drop-in Sessions. Following community demand, these sessions are informal gatherings for blind and partially sighted musicians, audio producers, sound engineers, educators and - [Event (online): AES Accessibility in Audio Summit](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-online-aes-accessibility-in-audio-summit/) - Date: 9-10 July, 1-5pm ET. The Audio Engineering Society (AES) will host a two-day virtual conference covering many topics in audio and music accessibility. Members of RAMPD will be leading the opening keynote panel [ed: including Jay Pocknell from Sound Without Sight]. Other topics covered will include live sound, accessible studio design, designing accessibility into - [Cast your vote: webinar topics for our next season](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/cast-your-vote-webinar-topics-for-our-next-season/) - We are very excited to share that, thanks to the Elizabeth Eagle-Bott Memorial Fund, we have secured support for another season of webinars, running until March 2027. Following our open feedback session earlier in the year, and suggestions received through our event feedback form, we received over 50 unique ideas! Thank you to everyone who - [Event (London): Musical Senses Round Table 2026 - advancing inclusive music education](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-london-musical-senses-round-table-2026-advancing-inclusive-music-education/) - Date: Wednesday 8 July 2026, 9:15 AM - 3:00 PMVenue: Royal College of Music, Prince Consort Road, London, SW7 2BS Sponsored by ABRSM and presented by the Tri-borough Music Hub, the Musical Senses Round Table returns for its second year on 8 July 2026 at the Royal College of Music, London. This free professional development - [Opportunity: Manhattan International Music Competition](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-manhattan-international-music-competition/) - Deadline: 1 July 2026. The Manhattan International Music Competition offers musicians of all ages and nationalities the chance to gain international recognition and perform at one of the world's most prestigious venues, Carnegie Hall in New York. Open to instrumentalists, vocalists, composers and chamber ensembles, the competition uses an online video submission process, making it - [Funding (UK, 18+): Help Musicians Fast Track Awards - up to £500 for career development](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/funding-uk-18-help-musicians-fast-track-awards-up-to-500-for-career-development/) - Deadline: Friday 3 July 2026 The Fast Track Award from Help Musicians offers working musicians up to £500 to invest in opportunities that can help grow or sustain their music careers. The flexible funding can be used for a wide range of professional development activities, including training courses, networking opportunities, equipment, software, recording, releasing music, - [Opportunity (UK, 13-18): NYO Inspire - free musical development for young musicians](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-13-18-nyo-inspire-free-musical-development-for-young-musicians/) - Deadline: 30 September 2026 NYO Inspire, run by the National Youth Orchestra, is a free year-round programme designed to help talented young musicians aged 13–18 take their music-making to the next level. Aimed primarily at state-school students and others who face barriers to accessing high-quality musical opportunities, the programme offers world-class coaching, ensemble experiences and - [Next webinar: DJing with vision impairment](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/next-webinar-djing-with-vision-impairment/) - We are excited to announce our next webinar and Q&A. Four established DJs with various degrees of sight loss will share valuable insight into their setups, craft, and the accessibility adaptations they use in their work. Join us at 7:30pm BST on Thursday 25 June 2026 – register below! Each panellist represents a different area of - [Event (London): Networking reception at the Elizabeth Eagle-Bott Memorial Fund Anniversary Concert](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-london-networking-reception-at-the-elizabeth-eagle-bott-memorial-fund-anniversary-concert/) - We are very excited to be hosting the networking reception at RNIB's Elizabeth Eagle-Bott Memorial Fund Anniversary Concert on Friday 3 July 2026. After the music, the venue will remain open for a further hour to allow attendees to grab a drink, network with other guests, meet representatives from organisations from across the music industry, - [Paid opportunity: create the new sonic identity for a sight loss charity re-brand](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/paid-opportunity-create-the-new-sonic-identity-for-a-sight-loss-charity-re-brand/) - We are sharing this opportunity on behalf of Faltrego, who are looking for a sound designer to create a sonic logo / audio ident for a sight loss charity re-brand. Please see the full job description below. Freelance Sound Designer (Blind or Partially Sighted) - Sonic Logo Development We are seeking a blind or partially - [Event (Sunderland): A to B Music Conference](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-sunderland-a-to-b-music-conference/) - The A to B music conference is taking place on 20th June at City Hall Sunderland. It “brings together world-class music professionals, practical workshops, live music and honest conversations about building a creative career today.” Participants will be able to network, enjoy live performances, participate in workshops, and receive advice from industry professionals. Learn more - [Opportunity (UK): Music Services Manager role at The Amber Trust](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-music-services-manager-role-at-the-amber-trust/) - Apply before 14th June to become Music Services Manager at our friends, The Amber Trust, who provide musical opportunities for blind and partially sighted children, including children with more complex needs. “The role requires the ability to work both independently and collaboratively” within their “small and friendly core team, whilst managing a cohort of freelance - [Event (London and online): Sound Connections - Understanding the UK Music Education Ecosystem and Careers](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-london-and-online-sound-connections-understanding-the-uk-music-education-ecosystem-and-careers/) - Sound Connections will be hosting an event on 18th June at Rich Mix, where they will be exploring music education. This is the first of their new three-part series, which aims to support “early-career and freelance music practitioners to better understand the UK music education landscape, build sustainable working practices, and develop high-quality, fundable music - [Opportunity (UK, 16-30): Apply for the F-List Youth Industry Network programme](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-16-30-apply-for-the-f-list-youth-industry-network-programme/) - Apply before 19th June for F-Lists Youth Industry Network programme. They are looking for “five emerging artists and/or music industry professionals from South plus East London, five from Tees Valley, and five from the East Midlands to participate in a pioneering programme to develop new skills, local support and funding to boost their career.” The - [Event (London): Elizabeth Eagle-Bott Memorial Fund 25th Anniversary Concert](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-london-elizabeth-eagle-bott-memorial-fund-25th-anniversary-concert/) - Date: Friday 3 July 2026Time: 5:30pm – 8:30pmVenue: Milton Court Concert Hall, Guildhall School of Music & Drama, London, EC2Y 9BH Tickets are now available for the Elizabeth Eagle-Bott Memorial Fund 25th Anniversary Concert, a special celebration marking 25 years of the Fund’s support for blind and partially sighted musicians. The event will showcase performances - [Opportunity (UK, 16-24): Future Producer Academy - music producer development programme](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-16-24-future-producer-academy-music-producer-development-programme/) - The Future Producer Academy is a free UK-wide programme supporting aspiring music producers aged 16–24 through mentorship, studio experience and industry training. Founded by Grammy and Ivor Novello-winning producer Fraser T Smith, the initiative aims to improve diversity and access within music production by actively encouraging applications from underrepresented groups and young people facing barriers to - [Opportunity (London, 18-30): Raw Material 'First Take' artist development programme](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-london-18-30-raw-material-first-take-artist-development-programme/) - Deadline: Tuesday 26th May 2026, 11:59pm First Take is a new artist development programme from Raw Material Music & Media supporting five emerging musicians, producers and songwriters aged 18–30 in Greater London. Designed for creatives facing social, financial or systemic barriers, the opportunity offers a support package worth £3,000, including five full studio days with - [Opportunity (UK, 18+): ALSO Future Music Programme](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-18-also-future-music-programme/) - Deadline: 24 May 2026 From ALSO Festival: Applications are now OPEN for ALSO Festival’s Future Music: Pathway to Success programme, supported by Arts Council England. What is the ALSO Future Music programme? Our second early-career development programme launching this May 2026 has evolved into an 18-month structured development programme, building on our previous iteration to provide a - [Attitude is Everything launches State of Access survey](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/attitude-is-everything-launches-state-of-access-survey/) - Attitude is Everything has launched its new State of Access Survey, a nationwide research project exploring the experiences of Deaf, disabled and neurodivergent audiences, artists and professionals within the UK live music sector. The survey aims to identify the social, financial and practical barriers faced when attending, working at or performing at live events, with findings - [Opportunity (UK, 18+): FAC Step Up Fund, powered by Amazon Music](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-18-fac-step-up-fund-powered-by-amazon-music/) - Deadline: 29 May 2026 The Featured Artists Coalition’s Step Up Fund, powered by Amazon Music, is now open for applications from UK-based independent artists. The programme offers ten grants of up to £8,000 to support creative projects including recording, touring, marketing and content creation, alongside mentoring, industry support and FAC PRO membership benefits. Eligible applicants must be - [Opportunity (UK): ABRSM 'Writing for Music Education' composer mentoring programme](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-abrsm-writing-for-music-education-composer-mentoring-programme/) - Deadline: Friday 5 June From the Ivors Academy: Applications are now open for ABRSM’s Writing for Music Education composer mentoring programme - a six-month opportunity for emerging and early career composers based in the UK to explore composing for music education. The programme offers behind-the-scenes access to ABRSM, opportunities to develop skills in writing to - [Opportunity (UK, 12-17): Play with Paraorchestra](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-12-17-play-with-paraorchestra/) - In a two-day workshop in October 2026 a small group of young musicians aged 12 - 17 will explore a range of musical styles, with a blend of acoustic and electronic sound worlds, working alongside professional Paraorchestra musicians to experience what it’s like to be in a Paraorchestra rehearsal. It offers the same ambitious, collaborative, - [Event (London): Give 'Em The Boot Launch Party - inclusive DIY punk night](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-london-give-em-the-boot-launch-party-inclusive-diy-punk-night/) - Thursday 14 May 2026 6 - 11 pm, London, Free Our friends One Piece DJ and Routes Radicals are launching Give ’Em The Boot, a new DIY punk cabaret party at Signature Brew, London. Built on punk’s spirit of inclusion and community, the gigs platform primarily women, LGBTQIA+ people, disabled and neurodivergent performers, and artists - [Next webinar: making digital audio consoles talk, with DiGiCo and AAA](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/next-webinar-making-digital-audio-consoles-talk-with-digico-and-aaa/) - Next session: Thursday 21 May 2026, 7pm BST. DiGiCo and the Audio Accessibility Alliance demonstrate ‘Codename DiGiVoice’. We are excited to announce our next webinar and Q&A! Representatives from audio company DiGiCo will demonstrate their technology prototype, codenamed “DiGiVoice”, and how it enables their digital mixing consoles to talk. Join us on Thursday 21 May - [Opportunity (UK, 18+): PopMaster TV - could you be the next music quiz champion?](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-18-popmaster-tv-could-you-be-the-next-music-quiz-champion/) - Deadline: Monday 18 May We have been contacted by Bright Entertainment who are making PopMaster TV, the music quiz hosted by Ken Bruce on More4. They are looking for people with the best music knowledge in the country to take part and have asked us to share their call for particpants. If you are interested - [Opportunity: Boiler Room Broadcast Lab](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/funding-boiler-room-broadcast-lab/) - Deadline: Sunday 17 May at 23:59 BST Boiler Room’s Broadcast Lab is a global open call grant programme created to support new ideas in music broadcasting and live streamed performance. Hosted by the UK based platform Boiler Room, the initiative invites musicians, collectives, and curators to pitch innovative projects that explore how music can be - [Opportunity (Manchester, 18+): ELEVATE artist development programme](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-manchester-18-elevate-artist-development-programme/) - Deadline: Tuesday 12 May at 11pm The ELEVATE programme by Brighter Sound is a year-long initiative designed to support emerging artists at a critical stage in their careers. Aimed specifically at musicians based in Greater Manchester, it focuses on those who already have a clear artistic identity and some performance experience but need structured support - [Opportunity (UK, 12-18): National Youth Folk Ensemble Open Days](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-12-18-national-youth-folk-ensemble-open-days/) - The National Youth Folk Ensemble Open Days, run by the English Folk Dance and Song Society, offer young musicians an engaging introduction to folk music. These free events are designed for instrumentalists aged 12–18 living in England who can already play their instrument confidently. Upcoming Open Days are: 27 May 2026 – at Cecil Sharp - [Opportunity (UK, 18-25): Transmission Roundhouse Podcast Academy](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-18-25-transmission-roundhouse-podcast-academy/) - Deadline: Monday 11 May 2026 at 10:00am (BST). The Transmission Roundhouse Podcast Academy is a creative programme run by the Roundhouse for young people aged 18–25 who want to develop their own podcast ideas. It supports emerging producers and presenters in creating original, socially engaged audio that amplifies underrepresented voices. Participants take part in a - [Opportunity (international): Reeperbahn Festival and Conference](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-international-reeperbahn-festival-and-conference/) - Artist and speaker submissions are now open for Reeperbahn - one of Europe's largest music and culture festivals - and its accompanying conference. Advancing diversity at the festival, conference, and within the music industry is core to Reeperbahn's mission. The organisers actively encourage submissions from people with underrepresented backgrounds and perspectives. They are committed to fostering professional equality - [Opportunity (London, 16-25): Wired4Music's Event Producer internship](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-london-16-25-wired4musics-event-producer-internship/) - Wired4Music is looking for two aspiring Event Producers to join their team for a six-month paid internship. Successful applicants will “gain hands-on experience supporting the planning and delivery of live events, workshops, and youth-led music programmes. This is a chance to get real insight into what happens behind the scenes in the music and creative - [Opportunity (international): The Daniel’s Music Foundation 7th Annual Danny Awards](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-the-daniels-music-foundation-7th-annual-awards/) - Deadline: 15 June 2026 The Dannys, represent a powerful celebration of inclusion, creativity, and musical excellence among people with disabilities. Designed as an international awards show, The Dannys highlights talented musicians with disabilities from around the world, offering them a global stage to perform, connect, and be recognized for their artistry. For blind and partially - [Event (Cardiff, 18-30): Headlines to Headliners - the importance of music journalism in the grassroots music scene](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-cardiff-18-30-headlines-to-headliners-the-importance-of-music-journalism-in-the-grassroots-music-scene/) - Youth Music has collaborated with music platform Klust to host an evening of “panel discussions, live performances and networking at Paradise Garden, Cardiff” on 23rd April. Attendees will “hear from industry professionals on the importance of music press for artists, routes into music journalism and making use of local music scenes as a creative. Whether - [Opportunity (UK): PPL Momentum Music Fund ](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-ppl-momentum-music-fund-2/) - Next deadline: 11 May 2026 The PPL Momentum Music Fund is a powerful opportunity for musicians ready to take the next step in their careers. This fund offers grants between £5,000 and £15,000 to UK-based musicians who are already building momentum, helping them invest in recording, touring, and promotion. Rather than supporting beginners, it focuses - [Opportunity: Radical Body report and micro-grants](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-radical-body-report-and-micro-grants/) - New report highlights barriers for disabled arts workers A new study by Radical Body, based on insights from 250+ disabled creatives, reveals persistent structural inequalities across the UK arts sector. Key issues include inaccessible workplaces, inflexible working practices, and inconsistent understanding of access needs by employers. Disabled artists also face financial pressures, often covering their own - [Survey: Arts Council England ‘Platforming Culturally Diverse Music’](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/survey-arts-council-england-platforming-culturally-diverse-music/) - Deadline: 30 April 2026 From Arts Council England: How can England’s music sector platform culturally diverse music better, and what’s getting in the way? We've commissioned Marsm to create a new practical guide for the music sector, and they want to hear directly from those working across the sector, from artists and promoters to technicians, - [Call-out for musicians: Celebrating 25 Years of the Elizabeth Eagle‑Bott Memorial Fund](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/call-out-for-musicians-celebrating-25-years-of-the-elizabeth-eagle-bott-memorial-fund/) - The Elizabeth Eagle‑Bott Memorial Fund (EEBMF) is proudly celebrating its 25th anniversary — marking a quarter of a century of life‑changing support for blind and partially sighted musicians. Founded through the generosity and vision of Miss M. E. Eagle‑Bott, whose Will of 7 May 1987 established the Fund in partnership with RNIB, the EEBMF was - [Concert: Victoria Oruwari and Friends](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/concert-victoria-oruwari-and-friends/) - Saturday 18 April, 7:30pm to 9pmSt Pancras Clock Tower, London From Eventbrite: Set in the striking St Pancras Clocktower, acclaimed soprano Victoria Oruwari is accompanied by Rianka Bouwmeester and joined by guest performers Takashi Kikuchi, viola and, pianist, Kevin Satizabal. This concert promises to be an evening of classical delights, the programme spanning Handel, Dvorjak, - [Event: DMLab North-West Accessible Music-Making Hackathon](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-dmlab-north-west-accessible-music-making-hackathon/) - April 26th 2026, 9am to 5pmHackspace Manchester Musicians, technologists, and creative thinkers are coming together for the DMLab North-West Accessible Music-Making Hackathon, an exciting event designed to make music creation more inclusive for blind and partially sighted people. Hosted by Drake Music and supported by a vibrant community of innovators, the hackathon invites participants to collaborate, - [Interview and new EP from community member Jessica Tomlinson](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/interview-and-new-ep-from-community-member-jessica-tomlinson/) - Hello Sound Without Sight Community, I have greatly benefited from the community support and practical tips shared so far. I wanted to share that I was recently interviewed on a podcast where I get to speak a lot about my journey so far and some of the accessible tools I use. I also get to - [Next webinar: using VOCR to access music software on macOS](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/next-webinar-using-vocr-to-access-music-software-on-macos/) - We are excited to announce our next webinar and Q&A! Producer Andre Louis will provide an overview of VOCR - a third-party add-on for macOS that enables VoiceOver to recognise text and other visual elements that would otherwise prove inaccessible. Join us on at 7pm BST on Thursday 16 April 2026 – register below! During - [Event (London): ISM Make Music Work 2026](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-london-ism-make-music-work-2026/) - Date: 17 April 2026Location: 229 LondonOpen to: All musicians (ISM members and non-members) Hosted by the Independent Society of Musicians, Make Music Work 2026 is a one-day industry event designed to help musicians build sustainable careers. Taking place on 17 April 2026 at 229 London, it brings together artists, creators and industry professionals for a day of insight, discussion and networking. The - [Opportunity (UK, 14-18): Sound and Music 'In the Making' artist development programme](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-14-18-sound-and-music-in-the-making-artist-development-programme/) - Deadline: 20 April 2026 Applications are open for In the Making 2026, a unique year-long artist development programme supporting young music creators across the UK. Designed for ages 14–18, the programme brings together around 50 participants for a week-long summer residential followed by 12 months of mentoring, online development, and creative support. Participants will develop original work with professional - [Opportunity (UK): apply for AMEX Unsigned 2026](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-apply-for-amex-unsigned-2026/) - Deadline: 17 April 2026 Applications are now open for AMEX Unsigned 2026, a major opportunity supporting emerging UK music talent. Run in partnership with the Featured Artists Coalition and American Express, the programme helps unsigned artists take the next step in their careers. Successful applicants can access high-profile opportunities including performances at major festivals (such as BST - [Event (London and online): Drake Music presents DMLab Festival](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-london-and-online-drake-music-presents-dmlab-festival/) - Sunday 24 May 2026Rich Mix, London The first ever DMLab Festival will offer a powerful platform for disabled musicians to engage with the future of accessible music making. The event will bring together disabled and non-disabled artists, technologists and instrument makers for a full day of creativity, collaboration and innovation. The festival is about removing - [Event (London): The Amber Trust Annual Concert 2026](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-london-the-amber-trust-annual-concert-2026/) - Sunday 17 May 2026, 3:30 PM - 5:30 PM BSTThe Wathen Hall, St Paul’s School, Barnes, SW13 9JT The Amber Trust’s Annual Concert returns on 17 May 2026 as a powerful celebration of musical talent within the blind and partially sighted community. The concert will feature the internationally acclaimed Derek Paravicini, and performances by many of the talented - [Event (online): Fix Streaming Webinar 2026 – Council of Music Makers](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-online-fix-streaming-webinar-2026-council-of-music-makers/) - The Council of Music Makers (CMM) is hosting a free online webinar on Tuesday 17 March, 4:00–5:30pm GMT (Zoom) exploring the economics of music streaming and the ongoing campaign to create a fairer system for music-makers. Aimed at artists, musicians, songwriters, composers, producers and their teams, the session will provide updates on industry and government initiatives addressing transparency, data - [Opportunities (UK, under-19): join the National Youth Orchestra](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunities-uk-under-19-join-the-national-youth-orchestra/) - NYO have opened applications to join their programmes in 2027, with several options available: Join NYO Is music your passion? Are looking to take on a new challenge? Then it’s time to play your part in the greatest musical adventure of your life and apply to join the Orchestra Musicians will be playing at a - [Event (Bristol): Drake Music launch DMLab workshops in Bristol](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-bristol-drake-music-launch-dmlab-workshops-in-bristol/) - 23 AprilPervasive Media Studio, Bristol Discover the future of inclusive music-making at DMLab Bristol: Assistive Music Technology Workshop, a free, hands-on evening at Watershed’s Pervasive Media Studio. Led by disability arts charity Drake Music, this welcoming event brings together musicians, technologists, designers and curious creatives to explore how innovation can break down barriers to music creation. - [Funding: UK Artist Touring (UKAT) Fund](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/funding-uk-artist-touring-ukat-fund/) - Deadline: 22 March 2026 The UK Artist Touring (UKAT) Fund, launched by the Featured Artists Coalition (FAC) in partnership with the Music Managers Forum and the Musicians’ Union, provides targeted financial support to UK artists undertaking domestic headline tours. The initiative has been developed in response to the growing financial pressures facing artists touring small and - [Opportunity: take over Disability Arts Online's Instagram for a week](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-take-over-disability-arts-onlines-instagram-for-a-week/) - Deadline: 18 March, 12:00pm DAO are offering a unique opportunity for disabled creatives to expand their skills in content creation, self promotion and social media management. They are providing the chance to takeover the DAO instagram platform for one week giving them the full reach of DAO’s online community. Alongside this they will be offering - [Opportunity: apply to play the Mountain Stage at Green Man Festival 2026](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-apply-to-play-the-mountain-stage-at-green-man-festival-2026/) - Deadline: 12 April Green Man Festival have opened an exiting new opportunity to be a part of the line up. The successful applicant will open the Mountain Stage - the main stage at the festival. The set will also be recorded and showcase to industry professionals. Read more and apply - [Paid opportunity: musicians wanted for RNIB sonic identity project](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/paid-opportunity-musicians-wanted-for-rnib-sonic-identity-project/) - Update 1 March 2026: We are still looking for a session drummer, guitarist or a bass player to play in the recording session in London on the 23 March - 12pm start time. The music will be written ahead of the session, so the musicians will not be required to compose. This would be paid at - [Next Meet-up: co-design our future events and content](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/next-meet-up-co-design-our-future-events-and-content/) - Next session: Thursday 19 March 2026, 7pm GMT. We are excited to announce our next Monthly Meet-up, where we want to hear your feedback! We are very appreciative of the support from the Elizabeth Eagle-Bott Memorial Fund, which has enabled us to run 24 varied Monthly Meet-up Sessions over the last two years, as well - [Funding (UK): PRS Foundation's Hitmaker Fund](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/funding-uk-prs-foundations-hitmaker-fund/) - Deadline: 3 March 2026 The Hitmaker Fund, delivered by the PRS Foundation, is a career development grant designed to support behind-the-scenes songwriters and producers working in popular music genres. Launched in 2017 (initially as the Writer Producer Fund in partnership with BASCA Trust), it fills a key gap in creative funding by helping writers and producers at - [Event (Cardiff): Amplified - Disabled Excellence in the Orchestra](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-cardiff-amplified-disabled-excellence-in-the-orchestra/) - Sunday 22 March, 7:30pmLlandaff Cathedral, Cardiff Posted on behalf of Georgia Steel, Musical Director of Cardiff Chamber Orchestra: Amplified: Disabled Excellence in the Orchestra is a landmark concert celebrating disabled leadership and creativity at the heart of orchestral music. Why this concert matters: It platforms disabled composers and conductors on a major orchestral stage; It spotlights - [Funding (under-30): Youth To The Front Fund - The Creatives](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/funding-under-30-youth-to-the-front-fund-the-creatives/) - Deadline: 6 April 2026 The We Are Family Foundation is now accepting applications for Youth To The Front Fund: The Creatives, a global initiative supporting young cultural changemakers whose work uses creativity to confront injustice, strengthen communities, and advance equitable futures. This opportunity invites creatives and collectives — with founding leaders under 30 — whose projects shape culture, shift narratives, and address - [Opportunity (West Midlands, 18-25): Music for Youth's Frequencies Creative Careers programme](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-west-midlands-18-25-music-for-youths-frequencies-creative-careers-programme/) - Launch Your Creative Career with Frequencies – Apply by 23 March!Frequencies Creative Careers is a dynamic training and development programme for 18–25-year-olds keen to break into the creative and music industries. Supported by Amazon’s Regional Creatives Fund, this structured initiative combines practical workshops, expert mentoring and real-world experience to help participants build the skills, confidence - [Paid opportunity: Youth Music seeking feature pitches for Women’s History Month 2026](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/paid-opportunity-youth-music-seeking-feature-pitches-for-womens-history-month-2026/) - Deadline: 23 February Youth Music is inviting submissions from young women writers and journalists to pitch paid feature articles for publication on the Youth Music website to coincide with Women’s History Month 2026. This is a creative opportunity for emerging writers to share insightful, original pieces that explore the role, impact, and stories of women in music. Whether you’re passionate - [Paid opportunities (UK): new BBC music and journalism trainee placements](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/paid-opportunities-uk-new-bbc-music-and-journalism-trainee-placements/) - The BBC is currently promoting three trainee opportunities that offer early-career pathways into journalism and music broadcasting. Each scheme is designed to widen access, develop practical skills and provide paid, structured experience within one of the world’s leading public service broadcasters. Future Voices: Trainee Journalism Scheme 2026 (EXTEND) This short-term journalism placement is aimed at - [Opportunity (Midlands): Overgrown's free artist development programme](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-midlands-overgrowns-free-artist-development-programme/) - Apply before 25th February for five months of free artist development support. Overgrown have collaborated with Arts Council England to offer five emerging Midlands-based artists or bands tailored assistance, which equips them with the tools they need to achieve success. Successful applicants will receive mentorship, as well as getting the opportunity to attend a “weekend - [Opportunity (West Midlands, 11-18): New Sounds Jazz Workshop](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-west-midlands-11-18-new-sounds-jazz-workshop/) - Apply before 24th February for a chance to take part in the New Sounds Jazz Workshop. This workshop is free and takes place at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire from 30th March – 2nd April, and it is designed to “spark creativity, collaboration, and confidence in a supportive setting.” Participants will learn from award-winning musicians, while - [Opportunity (London, 10-18): apply to join the Musical Senses workshop series](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-london-10-18-apply-to-join-the-musical-senses-workshop-series/) - Register by 8th March for the Musical Senses workshop series. The workshops will take place on 11th and 12th April at the Royal College of Music, and they are designed for young musicians who are “blind/visually impaired or deaf/hard of hearing.” Participants should have a “keen interest in music either through already playing an instrument - [Opportunity (UK): CRIPtic Arts disabled-led artist development programmes 2026](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-criptic-arts-disabled-led-artist-development-programmes-2026/) - Deadline: Friday 13 March CRIPtic Arts has relaunched its disabled-led Artist Development Programmes for 2026, designed to nurture the creative practice and leadership of Deaf and disabled artists across the UK. The initiative supports creatives at different career stages through four tailored pathways: Reach (for emerging writers developing their first full-length solo show), Launchpad (for theatre makers creating and - [Funding (Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales): Unlimited International Micro Awards](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/funding-northern-ireland-scotland-wales-unlimited-international-micro-awards/) - Deadline: 23 February at 12 noon. Applications are now open for Round Seven of the International Micro Awards, delivered by Unlimited in partnership with the British Council. This opportunity supports disabled artists to develop new international collaborations. Up to eight artist partnerships will each receive grants of up to £3,000 to explore creative exchange and - [Event (London and online): DMLab London - Inclusive Instruments & Hearing](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-london-and-online-dmlab-london-inclusive-instruments-hearing/) - Drake music is hosting a DMLab event on 9 March at Rich Mix, London. The event will take place from 6:30pm to 9pm, and attendees will get the chance to see “two brand new accessible instruments, developed by our 2025 Accessible Instrument Development Fund grantees.” They will also be joined by the company OutcomePath, who - [Event (Stockport): Tools and Tech for Inclusive Music](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-stockport-tools-and-tech-for-inclusive-music/) - OmniMusic are hosting a training day on 26 February, “to support the delivery of accessible and joyful music making sessions for disabled people.” The training will be led by “professional music facilitators and technologists actively working in disability spaces,” and participants will learn how to use inclusive approaches and Assistive Technology to make music accessible - [Opportunity (UK): perform at Music for Youth's Together For Music festival](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-perform-at-music-for-youths-together-for-music-festival/) - Music for Youth have announced the ‘Together for Music’ festival, which is designed to promote groups of young musicians "of all abilities within the deaf, neurodivergent and disabled communities.” The festival will take place on 13th March at Cast in Doncaster, and participants will have the opportunity to “perform to a live audience in a - [Opportunity: free group therapy sessions for music professionals](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-free-group-therapy-sessions-for-music-professionals/) - The Royal Society of Musicians have teamed up with Tonic Music to provide musicians with “12 free group therapy sessions for music professionals, facilitated online by two psychotherapists with significant experience working in music.” These sessions are designed to enable those working in the music industry to “share their experiences and feelings with others in - [Opportunity (Manchester): EXPERIMENTA music creator residencies](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-manchester-experimenta-music-creator-residencies/) - Apply before 15th February for EXPERIMENTA 2026. The programme is hosted by Manchester Collective, and it aims to support Northern music creators “who may have encountered barriers to entering classical music. It’s a nurturing space to try out new ideas and approaches to devising work, through collaboration with Manchester Collective’s musicians and team.” The scheme - [Opportunity (UK, 16-30): funding for young folk and traditional music performers](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-16-30-funding-for-young-folk-and-traditional-music-performers/) - Apply before 30th April for a grant from The Alan Surtees Trust. The grant is open to “folk and traditional music performers aged 16 to 30. The Trust will make four awards of up to £2,000 per person.” Learn more and apply here. - [Opportunity: participate in the Ways of Listening project](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-participate-in-the-ways-of-listening-project/) - Cities and Memory and the Evelyn Glennie Foundation are looking for people to submit artwork before 19th June, that will feature in the ‘Ways of Listening’ project. The “project aims to shine a light on the value of listening in all its forms – and the many ways more attentive listening can enrich our lives.” - [Opportunity (UK): Elizabeth Eagle-Bott Memorial Fund applications now open](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-elizabeth-eagle-bott-memorial-fund-applications-now-open/) - From RNIB: We are pleased to announce that the next round of the Elizabeth Eagle-Bott Memorial Fund (EEBMF) is now open! Each year the EEBMF awards grants of up to £2000 to blind and partially sighted musicians based in the UK, and £5000 for projects that support at least two blind or partially sighted musicians. - [Next Meet-up: Q&A with award-winning musician and producer, Joey Stuckey](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/next-meet-up-qa-with-award-winning-musician-and-producer-joey-stuckey/) - Next session: Thursday 19 February 2026, 7pm GMT. Q&A with Joey Stuckey. We are excited to announce our next Monthly Meet-up and Q&A, featuring the award-winning artist, producer, and speaker, Joey Stuckey. Join us on Thursday 19 February 2026 – register below! Joey is a renowned musician who blends Southern rock, jazz, and blues with - [Event (online): Attitude Is Everything - Building Conference Confidence with Andrew Lansley](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-online-attitude-is-everything-building-conference-confidence-with-andrew-lansley/) - Online, 10 February 20264pm to 5pm GMT Attitude is Everything is delivering an event aimed at disabled people who wish to attend or even take part in conferences. It will focus on: The different types of conferences and how to apply to them. What receiving funding to go to conferences looks like. How conferences consider - [Event (online): Attitude Is Everything - transferable skills for the music industry](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-online-attitude-is-everything-transferable-skills-for-the-music-industry/) - Online, 17 February 20263;30pm to 5pm GMT Attitude is Everything is hosting a useful online event, sharing insight into the business-side of the music industry and how to transition into a role within it. Guest speaker Sylvia Gargiulo will share their experiences of how the industry functions. From Eventbrite: Silvia Gargiulo is the founder of BIY People & - [Access Through Collaboration: help us create a more inclusive music industry](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/access-through-collaboration-help-us-create-a-more-inclusive-music-industry/) - We are excited to be launching a new survey, which aims to shape our future work. We want to more closely involve our members to improve accessibility within music and sound. Over the last few months, we have seen an increase in enquiries from music technology developers, seeking advice on ways to make their products more - [Opportunity: the Gardner’s Trust Braille Music Literacy Awards are back – apply now!](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-the-gardners-trust-braille-music-literacy-awards-are-back-apply-now/) - Introduction The 2026 season of the Gardner’s Trust Braille Music Literacy Awards (GTLA) is here! These awards offer a fun, low-pressure opportunity to showcase your braille music skills and receive expert feedback to help elevate your studies (and who knows, you might even win a prize!). Sponsored by the Gardner’s Trust for the Blind and - [Opportunity: Apply to perform at Lancaster Music Festival](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-apply-to-perform-at-lancaster-music-festival/) - Apply before 15 February for the chance to perform at the 2026 Lancaster Music Festival. They are looking for artists performing “original or traditional music” and all genres will be considered. They aim “to provide a minimum of four gigs for international acts and those travelling from further afield in the UK. Accommodation will be - [Opportunity: Apply to perform at Didsbury Arts Festival](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-apply-to-perform-at-didsbury-arts-festival/) - Apply before 16 February for the chance to perform at Didsbury Arts Festival. The festival “aims to reflect the diversity of people across south Manchester, Greater Manchester and beyond, showcasing emerging talent alongside more established practitioners and artists.” They are especially interested in projects that relate to the festival’s theme of ‘Visibility and Invisibility,’ and - [Opportunity: Apply to play at Y NOT Festival](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-apply-to-play-at-y-not-festival/) - Apply before 28 January for a chance to play at Y NOT in Derbyshire in Summer 2026. This opportunity gives “up & coming artists from across the country the chance to join our huge line up.” The 25 finalists will receive a paid performance slot, and the festival has partnered with Epiphone to offer the - [Opportunity (UK): Apply for the Early Career Promoter Fund](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-apply-for-the-early-career-promoter-fund/) - Apply before 12 February for PRS Foundation's Early Career Promoter Fund. The scheme “recognizes the vital role independent promoters play in supporting the talent pool pipeline across England, and offers grant funding and capacity building support, with the aim of bolstering the local, regional and national ecosystems.” Successful applicants will receive grants of up to - [Opportunity (Salford): BBC News placements](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-salford-bbc-news-placements/) - Apply before 1 February for BBC News placements. Six successful applicants will be offered the opportunity to embark on a four-week paid work experience programme, which will equip them with “hands-on experience inside a BBC newsroom, learning from industry professionals and contributing real editorial work.” Participants will be trained in many different disciplines and where - [Opportunity: Apply to play at Tramlines Festival](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-apply-to-play-at-tramlines-festival/) - Apply before the 28 January for the Tramlines Festival’s Apply to Play competition. Bands and artists are eligible to apply, and all finalists will receive a paid slot at Tramlines 2026 in Sheffield. The winners of the competition will receive additional prizes such as year-round social promotion, opportunities to perform at additional festivals and events, - [Opportunity (18-30): apply for Youth Music's NextGen Fund](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-18-30-apply-for-youth-musics-nextgen-fund-2/) - Apply before 6 February for the NextGen Fund. The scheme is organised by Youth Music and is designed to “support early- stage musicians and music-adjacent creatives.” Successful applicants are offered “grants of up to £3,000 to make their ideas happen." The scheme is open to 18 to 25 year olds or 18 to 30 year - [Opportunity (UK): Apply for the PPL Momentum Music Fund](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-apply-for-the-ppl-momentum-music-fund/) - Apply before the 2 February for the PPL Momentum Music Fund. The scheme offers “grants of £5k-£15k for UK based artists/bands to break through to the next level of their careers. Activities eligible for support include recording, touring, and marketing.” The fund is organised by PRS Foundation, in partnership with PPL, Creative Wales, and Arts - [Event (Manchester): DMLab North-West - exploring accessible music technology](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-manchester-dmlab-north-west-exploring-accessible-music-technology/) - Drake Music is hosting a free accessible music-making event on 27th January. The session will take place from 6pm-8.30pm at the School of Digital Arts in Manchester. DMLab is a space for Disabled and Non-Disabled musicians, technologists, and makers to exchange practices and explore new accessible instruments. Participants will be able to talk about “which - [Event (Online): Building Sustainable Income through Sponsorship & Partnerships](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-online-building-sustainable-income-through-sponsorship-partnerships/) - Live Talks are hosting a free online event on the 28 January, which aims to provide participants with an understanding of the current sponsorship landscape. The session will be led by Becky Ayres, who in the past year alone, “has supported festivals and arts organisations to secure over £100k in new revenue, helping to stabilise - [Opportunity: Apply for the Vienna International Music Competition](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-apply-for-the-vienna-international-music-competition/) - Apply before 30th January for Vienna’s International Music Competition. This contest is open to musicians internationally, and all participants can enter online, by submitting a video entry. The finalists will get the chance to perform at the Musikverein in Vienna on 3rd April and will be awarded with cash prizes and international visibility. “Music students - [Listen now: Sound Without Sight featured on BBC Radio 4's 'In Touch'](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/listen-now-sound-without-sight-featured-on-bbc-radio-4s-in-touch/) - Sound Without Sight’s Project Manager Jay Pocknell was interviewed on BBC Radio 4’s In Touch programme. Jay discussed the aims of the project, and he was also joined by award winning music artist Lachi to talk about her upcoming Q&A that will be hosted by Sound Without Sight. Listen to the episode here. - [Braille options now available on Victory guitar amplifiers](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/braille-options-now-available-on-victory-guitar-amplifiers/) - Victory Amps are offering braille panel options on any Victory amplifier worldwide, at no extra cost. Victory Amps, which is based in the UK, started researching accessibility when they were building a customised amplifier for guitarist, and social-media personality, Anthony Ferraro. He had reached out, asking if he could try an amplifier in their existing - [Next Meet-up: Q&A with award-winning music artist and executive, Lachi](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/next-meet-up-qa-with-award-winning-music-artist-and-executive-lachi/) - Next session: Thursday 15 January 2026, 7pm GMT. Q&A with Lachi. We are excited to announce our next Monthly Meet-up and Q&A, featuring the renowned recording artist, music executive, and disability advocate Lachi. Join us on Thursday 15 January 2026 - register below! Lachi is a world-touring recording artist, award winning music executive, disability inclusion - [Complete braille music training programme from NextSense for free](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/complete-braille-music-training-programme-from-nextsense-for-free/) - NextSense have launched a new online introductory training programme in braille music notation, which aims to equip participants with foundational knowledge in reading and understanding braille music. The programme, hosted on UEB Online, is comprised of 11 sessions, “each introducing essential concepts of braille music notation. Lessons are carefully structured so that skills and knowledge - [Event (London and Online): Drake Music's DMLab Sonic Special](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-london-and-online-drake-musics-dmlab-sonic-special/) - January 26, 2026 6:30pm - 9pm GMTIn-person, with presentations also streamed online. About Drake Music begin 2026 with a London event aimed at. Both disabled and non disabled musicians interested in advanced instrument technology. The event is a collection of presentations showcasing innovative takes on creating music. Guest presenters include: Marian who will be exploring - [Event (Online): REAPER listening party on 27th December](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-online-reaper-listening-party-on-27th-december/) - REAPER Made Easy’s online end of year wrap-up is taking place on December 27th, at 8pm GMT. Instead of the usual Q&A session, this month there will be a listening party where you can explore content that people have made, using REAPER and OSARA. People are welcome to submit content to be played at the - [Listen to Victoria Oruwari's new Christmas single](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/listen-to-victoria-oruwaris-new-christmas-single/) - Victoria Oruwari has released a Christmas single that is available on all streaming platforms. The song, which is called 'Merry Christmas from Afar', “blends Victoria’s classical background with a soft, contemporary vocal approach. It is a soundtrack-worthy expression of yearning, comfort and hope – designed to meet listeners wherever they are this Christmas.” You can - [Event (London): FFWD:London 2026 music industry conference](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-london-ffwdlondon-2026-music-industry-conference/) - Tue, Feb 10, 2026 at 9:00 AM-6:00 PMLondonTicketed You may recall that we attended FastForward London - a music conference celebrating community within the music industry - earlier this year. We are excited to hear that the event will return to London in February 2026 for FFWD:LDN 26, a special 10th anniversary edition at a - [Opportunity: Apply to perform at Boomtown 2026](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/apply-to-perform-at-boomtown-2026/) - Applications are now open to perform at Boomtown 2026, 'Chapter 5: Radical Redesign'. From Boomtown's website: "Step into a city unlike any other, where music meets imagination and every corner holds a new adventure. A festival but not as you know it. Wander through themed districts bursting with unique design, groundbreaking stages, vivid characters, and - [Event (Online): Attitude is Everything - Navigating Changing Careers in the Live Events Industry](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-online-attitude-is-everything-navigating-changing-careers-in-the-live-events-industry/) - Online eventJan 27 from 3:30pm to 5pm GMTFree From Eventbrite: Learn how to identify your transferable skills and explore new career paths within the live events industry with Phoebe Roberts. We are proud to present the next event in our Beyond The Stage series – this time with Phoebe Roberts, award-winning HR specialist and Interim Head - [Opportunity (UK): MOLA Sensory Exhibition - Feasibility Brief](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-mola-sensory-exhibition-feasibility-brief/) - Museum of London Archaeology (MOLA) are inviting Expressions of Interest and ideas from multi-sensory artists and technicians who specialise in telling stories with sounds, scents and touch. MOLA is an independent charitable organization and one of the UK’s leading providers of development-led archaeological and built heritage services. MOLA is recognized as an Independent Research Organisation - [Next Meet-up: music production showcase and Q&A with Mxshi Mo](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/next-meet-up-music-production-showcase-and-qa-with-mxshi-mo/) - Next session: Thursday 18 December 2025, 7pm GMT. Production showcase and Q&A with Mxshi Mo. We are excited to announce our next Monthly Meet-up - a live production showcase and Q&A with electronic music producer and DJ, Mxshi Mo. Register below! Mxshi will share insight into: His background and influences, including the music scene in - [Research opportunity: survey for visually impaired and fully sighted musicians](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/research-opportunity-survey-for-visually-impaired-and-fully-sighted-musicians/) - My name is Hannah I am a visually impaired musician. I am currently studying music as one of my A Levels, and I play percussion and drums. For my Extended Project Qualification, I am hoping to create a website for music theory learning which is accessible for people with a visual impairment. I’d really appreciate - [Opportunity (UK): Sony Music A&R Academy](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-sony-music-ar-academy/) - Deadline: 24 November Applications are now open for Sony Music UK’s A&R Academy. It is a paid 12-month opportunity for people who would like a career in artist and repertoire. The programme offers “hands-on training, mentorship, and the chance to work inside one of Sony’s world-leading labels.” Find out more and apply here. - [Drake Music's DMLab events are coming to Gloucester](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/drake-musics-dmlab-events-are-coming-to-gloucester/) - Drake Music's DMLab events are coming to Gloucester 2025 and 2026. The initial events are taking place on 5th December and 24th January, and the events are aiming to educate people about accessible music technology. DMLab is a “community of makers and musicians using our skills to develop new accessible musical instruments.” You can find - [Next Meet-up: introduction to Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol and NKS](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/next-meet-up-introduction-to-native-instruments-komplete-kontrol-and-nks/) - Next session: Thursday 20 November 2025, 7pm GMT. Introduction to accessibility in Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol and NKS. We are excited to announce our next Monthly Meet-up - a presentation and Q&A with Chris Ankin, music producer and founder of KK-Access, and Tim Adnitt, Vice President of Product Management at Native Instruments. Register below! Chris - [Event: How to network in arts, culture and heritage by HdK](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-how-to-network-in-arts-culture-and-heritage-by-hdk/) - On the 28th of October, HdK are hosting an online event, which will cover networking strategies for artists. Attendees will learn how to “network to build meaningful connections, foster collaboration, and share resources and enhance opportunities within the sector.” There will also be a Q&A at the end to give people the opportunity to ask - [Event (London and online): DMLab London - Accessible Practices](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-london-and-online-dmlab-london-accessible-practices/) - On Monday 3 November 2025, Drake Music presents DMLab London: Accessible Practices at Rich Mix — and online — for an evening that explores how creativity and accessibility intersect. Doors open at 6:30 pm, with talks beginning at 7 pm. The event features three guest speakers: Alice Gilmour, a sound engineer and inclusive arts advocate; Stuart Grimshaw, a composer and technologist developing gesture-based - [Event (Colchester): CLIP and Drake Music to launch DMLab Colchester](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-colchester-clip-and-drake-music-to-launch-dmlab-colchester/) - November, 14, 2025Firstsite, Colchester What to expect Drake Music are partnering up with CLIP Sound to deliver new monthly sessions aimed at makers and musicians to explore new ideas and advancements in instrument design. The events will support the development new instruments and technology, allowing attendees to provide crucial feedback. The meet ups will vary between - [Opportunity (London, 16-25): Free career advice sessions with Wired4Music](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-london-16-25-free-career-advice-sessions-with-wired4music/) - Wired4Music are offering career advice sessions to 16–25-year-olds based in London. The sessions are designed to help young people take their next steps on the career ladder. People are able to receive help with job applications, funding applications, finding suitable courses, and anything music related that they would like to talk about. Find out more - [Opportunity (UK and Ireland): Music Gateway's Breakout Artist Programme](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-and-ireland-music-gateways-breakout-artist-programme/) - Deadline: 28 October 2025 Independent artists and bands now have a compelling chance to elevate their careers through Music Gateway’s curated competition promotion suite. Entrants compete for a powerful promotional package worth £20,000, bringing exposure across streaming platforms, social media ad campaigns, YouTube, TikTok influencer reach and radio/press support, designed to amplify their next release. - [Event (London): iluvlive - Breaking Down Royalties with PPL](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-london-iluvlive-breaking-down-royalties-with-ppl/) - 11 November 2025 (17:30 - 20:00) PPL Head Office, 1 Upper James StreetLondon, England, W1F 9DFUnited Kingdom What to expect illuvlive are hosting an event aimed to inform people on the importance of royalties. They are partnering up with PPL to ensure expert support on royalties and the value of your music. There are a - [Opportunity (London, 16-25): Wired4Music Generate funding](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-london-16-25-wired4music-generate-funding/) - Wired4Music return with their funding initiative “Generate”, a grant dedicated to support and develop a project for young musicians. They are looking for passionate musicians with a clear project in mind, whether that be a music video, studio time, content creation, or even zine creation. The applicants must be able to plan out the grant - [Apply to appear in Channel 4 TV show "The Piano"](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/apply-to-appear-in-channel-4-tv-show-the-piano/) - Channel 4’s hit show “The Piano” is back, and applications are open for the new season. The team are looking for “passionate amateur pianists of all kinds” to star in their hit reality show. “Whether you play classical, pop, jazz, or your own original songs – if the piano is at the heart of who - [Opportunity (UK): apply for the free Abbey Road Amplify scheme](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-apply-for-the-free-abbey-road-amplify-scheme/) - Apply before the 9th of November for the Abbey Road Amplify scheme. The Amplify programme is coming to Manchester for the first time. It consists of 2 days of recording workshops, followed by a full day of panels at Aviva Studios. Successful applicants will be able to attend the workshops for free, and applicants from - [Sound Without Sight featured on RNIB Tech Talk podcast](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/sound-without-sight-featured-on-rnib-tech-talk-podcast/) - RNIB post their most recent Tech Talk podcast featuring guest appearances from Dave Williams of company Dot, Rose Woodall of Sight Village events, and our very own Project Manager, Jay Pocknell. Hosts also dive into advancements in ChatGPT and how it can be used to assist blind or partially sighted people in everyday life. David - [Event: Access Bristol - assistive technology accelerator](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-access-bristol-assistive-technology-accelerator/) - 8 - 9 November 2025, Bill Brown Design Suite, Bristol Access Bristol will be hosting a two day event with the purpose of progressing assistive technology for disabled creative users. If you are a disabled creative, live with/family member of someone with a disability, a tech developer or even a student looking to gain insight - [Opportunity: apply to play at FOCUS Wales 2026](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-apply-to-play-at-focus-wales-2026/) - From FOCUS Wales: With 300+ live performances, the FOCUS Wales Music Festival showcases the very best new talent emerging from the nation alongside established names and a selection of exciting international acts. Apply to play – artists worldwide can apply to showcase for FREE via AMPLEAD HERE (100 slots reserved) – OR artists worldwide can apply to showcase via our application - [Opportunity (UK): Sound and Music 'In Motion' artist development programme 2026](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-sound-and-music-in-motion-artist-development-programme-2026/) - Deadline: Monday 3 November An 18-month artist development programme supporting UK-based composers and music creators of all genres to take the next step in their careers. Participants receive an £1,800 bursary, up to £4,000 production grant, mentoring and workshops to help realise their creative ambitions. From Sound and Music: In Motion is an artist development - [Opportunity (UK): Universal Music Amplify U internships](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-universal-music-amplify-u-internships/) - Deadline: 19 October 2025 Universal Music have announced brand new vacancies for their Amplify U Internship 2026 cohort! 🎉 Search for roles labelled “INTERN” or “AMPLIFY U” to see all open opportunities. 🎨 Creative Intern – Polydor🎥 Content Intern – Island📊 Media Buying Intern – Audience & Media (Fused)⚙️ Digital Operations Intern – Audience - [Opportunity: Attitude is Everything Future Leaders 2025 programme](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-attitude-is-everything-future-leaders-2025-programme/) - Deadline: Friday 31st October 2025 Applications are now open to Attitude is Everything's Future Leaders 2025 programme. From Attitude is Everything: From November 2025 to October 2026, we will support 10 disabled people who are at an early stage of their careers in the music and live events industry. The programme will help develop their - [Next Meet-up: producing a BBC Radio documentary](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/next-meet-up-producing-a-bbc-radio-documentary/) - Next session: Thursday 16 October 2025, 7pm BST. Producing a BBC Radio documentary. We are excited to announce our next Monthly Meet-up and Q&A, where you can meet both the producer and presenter of the recent BBC Radio 3 documentary, “Joining the dots – 200 years of Braille Music”. Producer, Kevin Satizabal, and presenter, Matthew - [Research call-out: share your experience to improve accessibility and sustainability in UK arenas](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/research-call-out-share-your-experience-to-improve-accessibility-and-sustainability-in-uk-arenas/) - Hello everyone, Following the research announcement posted in June, I’m happy to share that my project has now expanded beyond The O2. I’m exploring how UK arenas can improve their waste and recycling systems to make them more inclusive for blind and partially sighted music fans and professionals. I’d love to invite you for a - [EBU Newsletter: Blind Castanets Bring Joy to New York](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/ebu-newsletter-blind-castanets-bring-joy-to-new-york/) - In the latest European Blind Union newsletter, Bárbara Martín, EBU’s First Vice-President, shares her inspiring journey from Granada to Carnegie Hall. Guided by castanet virtuoso Teresa Laiz, Bárbara learned to play despite her visual impairment, proving that music truly knows no barriers. After debuting in 2024, she returned in 2025 to perform again with the - [Flufs accessible loudness meter version 1.1 released](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/flufs-accessible-loudness-meter-version-1-1-released/) - Hi everyone, you may remember that I released Flufs - an accessible Max for Live loudness meter - back in March. I just wanted to let you know that I’ve just released version 1.1, which now includes Scope for Flufs, an accessible phase scope with a nice UI and full screen reader and keyboard control - [Event (Gloucester): Community Music Now and Next](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-gloucester-community-music-now-and-next/) - Community Music Now & Next is a one-day event organised by Sound Sense in partnership with The Music Works, taking place on Saturday 18 October 2025 at The Music Works Hub, Gloucester. The focus of the event is inclusion, diversity, and exploring what it means to be a community musician in the 21st century. It offers a programme of talks, workshops, demonstrations, and networking - [Opportunity (Oxfordshire): Music and Sound Facilitators call-out](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-oxfordshire-music-and-sound-facilitators-call-out/) - From Oxford Contemporary Music: We want to hear from music and sound facilitators in Oxfordshire! Oxford Contemporary Music (OCM) and Music at Oxford (MaO) are seeking to expand and diversify our networks of music facilitators. We would like to draw from a wider pool of workshop leaders when developing and delivering our learning and participation programmes. - [Opportunity (SW England): Sing Our Story – Musicians / Songwriters required](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-sw-england-sing-our-story-musicians-songwriters-required/) - Deadline: 11.00 pm Tuesday 21 October 2025 Take Art is seeking to engage one or two freelance musicians/singer songwriters to deliver two ‘Sing Our Story’ projects in the Southwest of England. ‘Sing Our Story’ is a long-running programme developed and designed by Groundswell Arts. Take Art has joined forces with them to run two pilot - [Event (online): Self advocacy as an artist - Attitude is Everything](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-online-self-advocacy-as-an-artist-attitude-is-everything/) - Are you a Deaf, disabled or neurodivergent artist or music maker? Do you want to feel more confident advocating for your access requirements? Join Attitude is Everything for their Next Stage: Artist Hub session, where they will focus on self-advocacy and communicating access needs with confidence. Led by the Next Stage team, this session will - [Blind drummer hosting drum clinic to raise money for Guide Dogs](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/blind-drummer-hosting-drum-clinic-to-raise-money-for-guide-dogs/) - On 11 October, Steve Burge will be hosting a drum clinic and masterclass in Stevenage, to raise money for Guide Dogs. Steve will be joined by the drummers Russell Gilbrook and Colin Woolway. Russell Gilbrook is a member of the band Uriah Heep, and Colin Woolway is the founder of Drumsense. More information and tickets - [Apply to perform at The Great Escape Festival](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/apply-to-perform-at-the-great-escape-festival/) - Apply before 15 February for a chance to perform at The Great Escape festival. “The Great Escape welcomes artists from every genre and every corner of the globe.” Artists are able to showcase their music to an audience of thousands. It is one of the primary opportunities in the UK to showcase emerging talent to - [Work alongside composer Michael Henry as an Associate Music Director](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/work-alongside-composer-michael-henry-as-an-associate-music-director/) - Apply before 13 October to work with Fuel Theatre on a “new and innovative composition for stage.” Early career composers or music directors are invited to apply. The successful applicant will work alongside composer Michael Henry and support the project “in an Associate Music Director Role.” Find out more and apply here. - [Opportunity (UK, 18+): London Symphony Orchestra Pathways programme](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-18-london-symphony-orchestra-pathways-programme/) - Apply before 10 October to join the LSO Pathways programme. LSO Pathways is a “2-year programme of support and activity designed for emerging orchestral musicians, who face barriers which may have hindered their progress and development.” Successful applicants will be invited to three residential weekends in London each year, where they will receive valuable training - [Listen back: Bella Music Foundation concert with blind musicians at UNESCO in Paris](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/listen-back-bella-music-foundation-concert-with-blind-musicians-at-unesco-in-paris/) - On September 16, I had the pleasure to perform in Paris with orchestra as part of an event organized by Bella Music Foundation. As a classical guitarist, it is always a thrill to play with orchestra. Here is the link to their post and I am also attaching the YouTube link to their live performance.BMF - [Apply for PRS Foundation's Composers' Fund](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/apply-for-prs-foundations-composers-fund/) - Deadline: 6 October Applications for PRS Foundation’s Composers’ Fund are now open. The fund offers a contribution of £8,000 - £15,000 to “composers who are already making a significant cultural contribution in the UK and have the potential for greater impact in the UK and overseas.” Find out more and apply - [Event (Bristol): En Masse Community & Arts Festival](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-bristol-en-masse-community-arts-festival/) - 7-12 October 2025 What is En Masse? En Masse is a Bristol-based multi-venue electronic festival that celebrates innovation, community, and immersive experiences. With a lineup curated by the community, the festival champions the contemporary sound of Bristol. Genres will be bent and broken. Familiar spaces are seen in new light. Reconfigured and rediscovered. In 2021, - [Event (London and online): Drake Music Artist Showcase](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-london-and-online-drake-music-artist-showcase/) - On October 10 2025, Drake Music are opening the doors of Rich Mix, London to showcase a selection of talented Disabled artists. All of the artists performing are members of the Drake Music Collective and span a wide range of musical genres and styles. The event will be seated in a cabaret style and you - [This week: new BBC Radio 3 braille music documentary](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/this-week-new-bbc-radio-3-braille-music-documentary/) - On Sunday 28 September, BBC Radio 3 will air a new documentary about braille music. Radio 3 Sunday Feature: Joining the dots - 200 years of Braille Music. Award-winning lutenist Matthew Wadsworth explores the story of Braille music and its impact on blind musicians over the last 200 years. Sound Without Sight steering group members - [This week: connect with us at the ADCx Gather Accessibility in Audio Meetup](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/this-week-connect-with-us-at-the-adcx-gather-accessibility-in-audio-meetup/) - We are happy to be participating in ADCx Gather, a one-day online pop-up in Gather Town, running from 12:00–22:00 UTC on Friday 26 September! This special pre-conference event is your chance to explore the virtual side of ADC before the main conference in November. ADCx Gather includes: 20-minute livestreamed talks from industry pros (also on YouTube if you can’t join in Gather - [Apply for Sound Roots Artist Mentoring Pathway](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/apply-for-sound-roots-artist-mentoring-pathway/) - Deadline: 28th September Applications for The Sound Roots Artist Mentoring Pathway are now open. The programme “equips emerging folk, roots and acoustic musicians with the skills, networks and experience to build their music career sustainably.” The scheme lasts for 12 months and is designed to support “early career stage artists to demystify the international music - [Apply for Artist Development Programme with iluvlive and Stellar Songs](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/apply-for-artist-development-programme-with-iluvlive-and-stellar-songs/) - Deadline: 3rd October iluvlive and Stellar Songs are offering an Artist Development Programme. Successful applicants will receive “a budget of £5,000 on hard costs, such as mixing, mastering PR, plugging, tour support, videos, etc.” Artists will also gain support from iluvlive’s team expertise and contact network. Find out more and apply here. - [Opportunity: Freelance Researcher for Resound (Scotland’s Inclusive Music Collection)](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-freelance-researcher-for-resound-scotlands-inclusive-music-collection/) - Deadline for application: 12pm, 1st, October, 2025 Sonic Bothy and Scottish Music Centre are looking for a skilled freelance researcher to assist in the development of a new digital archive. The archive is dedicated to celebrating and showcasing the music of Scottish contemporary disabled artists. This project presents a great opportunity to spotlight the works - [Next Meet-up announced: performing in the BBC Proms as a blind musician](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/next-meet-up-announced-performing-in-the-bbc-proms-as-a-blind-musician/) - Next session: Thursday 18 September 2025, 7pm BST. Performing in the BBC Proms as a blind musician. We are very excited to announce our next Monthly Meet-up, a presentation and Q&A with recorder player James Risdon. Register below! James will speak about his recent experience of performing with Paraorchestra and The Breath at the BBC Proms. You can listen to a recording of the concert here. - [Apply for NYO Inspire, a free musical adventure for 13-18 year olds](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/apply-for-nyo-inspire-a-free-musical-adventure-for-13-18-year-olds/) - Deadline: September, 30, 2025 The National Youth Orchestra have opened applications for a one-year programme to provide an enriching and developmental experience for those who are accepted. The programme is aimed at young people aged 13 - 18 that have an orchestral instrument grade 6 or above and show exceptional interest in music. The application - [Apply: Help Musicians’ Peter Whittingham Jazz Award](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/apply-help-musicians-peter-whittingham-jazz-award/) - From Help Musicians: Supporting emerging jazz musicians with £5,000 towards their career plans. The Peter Whittingham Jazz Award supports emerging jazz artists or groups with the creativity and ambition to build a career in music. Since starting in 1990, it has become a prestigious and influential award, with previous winners including Xhosa Cole, Soweto Kinch, Errollyn Wallen and Roller Trio. One - [RSM x Tonic Music: free Group Therapy for music professionals](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/rsm-x-tonic-music-free-group-therapy-for-music-professionals/) - From Tonic Music: We are delighted to announce a new partnership with The Royal Society of Musicians, the first of its kind in the UK, offering group therapy sessions for music professionals. It’s no secret that a career in music can be tough. The mental health challenges faced by music professionals are many and varied. - [Student scholarship to attend NAMM Show 2026](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/student-scholarship-to-attend-namm-show-2026/) - Deadline: September 8, 2025 The NAMM Foundation has opened applications to any college/university students exhibiting exceptional talent in their field to attend their annual convention. Applicants can come from a variety of backgrounds from practitioner to producer, studio engineer to tech developer all are welcome. They are offering $750 and an all access ticket to the - [Drake Music to host accessible Synth Special in London](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/drake-music-to-host-accessible-synth-special-in-london/) - Drake Music will be hosting an accessible “Synth Special” showcase event at Rich Mix, London on September 22, 2025. This event is open to both disabled and non disabled producers, musicians and tech enthusiasts to gain expertise on advancements and new developments from three notable keynote speakers. This will also be a great opportunity to - [Opportunity (18-25): apply now to join the Roundhouse Music Collective](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-18-25-apply-now-to-join-the-roundhouse-music-collective/) - Deadline: 22nd September at 9am Applications for the Roundhouse Music Collective are open. The scheme is organised by Roundhouse Studios, and artists and musicians “come together for a year-long programme of music-making, workshops, industry masterclasses, performances, and recording sessions.” The scheme is designed to nurture the creativity of young musicians and aid them in producing - [Opportunity (18-30): apply for Youth Music's NextGen Fund](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-18-30-apply-for-youth-musics-nextgen-fund/) - Deadline: Friday 26 September Applications for the Youth Music NextGen Fund are now open. The scheme “offers emerging creatives grants of up to £3,000 to make their ideas happen.” The scheme is normally open to applicants aged 18-25, but those who have a disability can apply up to the age of 30. You can find - [Apply now for the Resonate Fund](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/apply-now-for-the-resonate-fund/) - Deadline: 13 October Applications for PRS Foundation’s Resonate scheme are now open. The fund “encourages professional orchestras to programme into their repertoire the best pieces of British music from the past 25 years.” Successful applicants will receive a grant of up to £10,000. More information can be found here. - [Apply for the Open Fund for Music Creators](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/apply-for-the-open-fund-for-music-creators/) - Deadline: 29 September at 6pm Applications for The Open Fund for Music Creators are now open. The scheme is organized by the PRS Foundation, and it aims to support “the development of outstanding music creators of all genres and backgrounds at different stages of their career with grants of up to £5,000.” To be eligible - [Apply now for PRS Foundation’s Women Make Music fund](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/apply-now-for-prs-foundations-women-make-music-fund/) - Deadline: 29 September at 6pm Applications for Women Make Music are now open. The scheme was created by the PRS Foundation to support “the development of outstanding women, trans and non-binary songwriters and composers of all genres and backgrounds at different stages of their careers.” Songwriters, composers, artists, performers, and bands are eligible to apply. - [Opportunity (UK and Ireland): apply for PRS Foundation's Beyond Borders initiative](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-and-ireland-apply-for-prs-foundations-beyond-borders-initiative/) - Deadline: 15th September 2025, 6pm. Applications are open for PRS Foundation’s UK and Republic of Ireland “co-commissioning and touring initiative, Beyond Borders.” Organisations, music groups, and composers are encouraged to apply, and successful applicants will receive grants up to £20,000. The scheme was founded in 2010 “to support high quality co-commissions and tours, stimulating collaboration - [Opportunity (London, 16-25): apply now to perform at London Jazz Festival](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-london-16-25-apply-now-to-perform-at-london-jazz-festival/) - Deadline: 10 September 2025 Wired4Music are looking for London-based artists to perform as part of their showcase at the London Jazz Festival. The opportunity is open to anyone “who has previously engaged with Wired4Music.” Successful applicants will get a slot to perform their material live, the opportunity to collaborate with other artists, monthly rehearsals until - [Opportunity (South London, 13-17): apply for ArtsTrain Amplified Sessions programme](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-south-london-13-17-apply-for-artstrain-amplified-sessions-programme/) - Deadline: 12 September 2025. Musicians aged 13-17 can now apply for the ArtsTrain Amplified Sessions Programme. The scheme begins in Autumn 2025, and it is a ten-week music programme that offers “an elevated, cutting-edge experience for aspiring musicians, songwriters and vocalists.” Participants will benefit from weekly songwriting sessions, creative mentorship, the opportunity to perform live, - [Native Instruments Kontrol S-Series MK3 Accessibility Helper now officially launched](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/native-instruments-kontrol-s-series-mk3-accessibility-helper-now-officially-launched/) - Native Instruments' Kontrol keyboards are an example of accessibility excellence, and the new firmware update 2.0 brings a further step forward. With speech feedback function paired with tactile knobs and faders, the Kontrol series keyboards have become a fluent non visual music-making experience. The training mode allows any new users to familiarise themselves with the - [UK Parliament would like to know your thoughts on live music](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/uk-parliament-would-like-to-know-your-thoughts-on-live-music/) - The UK Parliament's Culture, Media and Sport Committee are conducting an anonymous survey to understand fans’ experiences of live and electronic music events. A fan-led review of live music has been launched by MPs, with the aim of improving the sustainability of grassroots live and electronic music to safeguard the success of the wider UK - [Will Smith teams up with the Supporting Act Foundation to back emerging artists with €5,000 grants](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/will-smith-teams-up-with-the-supporting-act-foundation-to-back-emerging-artists-with-e5000-grants/) - Deadline: September 1, 2025 (11.00 AM CET) The Will Smith Emerging Artist Fund is offering 20 grants of €5,000 to “help artists cover various expenses associated with their artistic development.” The scheme has been created to “support emerging music artists from underrepresented groups in the countries included in the 2025 Based on a True Story - [Apply now for an internship with Sony Music London](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/apply-now-for-an-internship-with-sony-music-london/) - Applications for the Sony Music Internship Program are now open. The internships cover many areas of the music industry, ranging from artist relations to digital marketing. Sony Music are looking for people “who have the potential to thrive and develop in our inclusive culture and exciting industry.” You can click here to find out more. - [Event (London): tickets for Ditto X "Meet the Music Industry" available now](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-london-tickets-for-ditto-x-meet-the-music-industry-available-now/) - Ditto X "Meet the Music Industry" returns to the O2 Arena in London on the 20th of November 2025. The conference returns for its fifth year, and consists of “a day of panels, interviews, workshops, networking and feedback sessions with experts from across the music business.” The conference is organised by Ditto Music, and it - [Applications are now open for the ADC25 Diversity Scholarship Programme](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/applications-are-now-open-for-the-adc25-diversity-scholarship-programme/) - Deadline: 22 September 2025 The Audio Developer Conference is an annual event celebrating all audio development technologies, from music applications and game audio to audio processing and embedded systems. ADC’s mission is to help attendees acquire and develop new skills, and build a network that will support their career development. It is also aimed at - [Watch now: the Amber Trust celebrates 30 years with a special concert](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/watch-now-the-amber-trust-celebrates-30-years-with-a-special-concert/) - The Amber Trust have shared the full recording of their 30th Anniversary Concert on their YouTube channel. The concert showcased the talents of some of the young musicians that have benefited from the charity’s support. “There were also special appearances by Poppy McGhee and Amber alumni Lily B and Lilly K.” A wide variety of - [Next Meet-up: SightlessKombat shares how audio innovations are improving access to gaming](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/next-meet-up-sightlesskombat-shares-how-audio-innovations-are-improving-access-to-gaming/) - Next session: Thursday 21 August 2025, 7pm BST. SightlessKombat shares how audio innovations are improving access to gaming. We are very excited to announce our next Monthly Meet-up, a presentation and Q&A with the award winning and multi-credited accessibility consultant and gamer without sight, SightlessKombat. Register below! SK, real name Ben, has worked on games such as - [Diverse City offers free residential music camp for five disabled artists (UK, 16-25)](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/diverse-city-offers-free-residential-music-camp-for-five-disabled-artists-uk-16-25/) - Deadline: Sunday 17th August at 8pm Diverse City are looking for 5 disabled musicians or vocalists to participate in their three-day Trailblazer Music Residency programme. The residential will give young artists the opportunity to “collaborate with peers, experiment with songwriting and sound, and jam together in an accessible studio.” The event will take place from the - [Electronic music creators: apply for a career-boosting award from Help Musicians (UK, 18+)](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/electronic-music-creators-apply-for-a-career-boosting-award-from-help-musicians-uk-18/) - Deadline: 29th August at 5pm. Applications are now open for the Electronic Music Award. The scheme is run by Help Musicians in association with DJ Mag, and it is a “12-month career accelerator designed for electronic music creators.” Successful applicants will receive up to £3,000 financial support, advice from industry experts, the opportunity to attend - [Apply now for the Unlimited Open Awards (UK, 18+)](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/apply-now-for-the-unlimited-open-awards-uk-18/) - Deadline: Monday 29 September 2025 midday. Unlimited are offering disabled artists significant financial backing through their Open Awards scheme. The awards “offer a grand total of £413,000 to disabled artists with individual awards ranging from £15,000 seed commissions, to £80,000 for major production-ready backing.” Ten applicants will be chosen, and they welcome “applications from disabled - [Opportunity (18+): become Hot Vox's next Future Icon and win prizes worth over £5000](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-18-become-hot-voxs-next-future-icon-and-win-prizes-worth-over-5000/) - Hot Vox's Future Icon competition is providing artists with an opportunity to kickstart their career in music. Applicants will compete for a prize package worth £5,000, which includes “£1,000 in cash, an industry-leading artist development and PR package, and professional studio recording time.” Contestants who make it to the Grand Final will compete for the - [Opportunity (England, 18+): Drake Music Accessible Instrument Development Fund 2025-26](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-england-18-drake-music-accessible-instrument-development-fund-2025-26/) - Deadline: Sunday 31st August 2025 Drake Music's Accessible Instrument Development Fund is offering two £1000 grants to support the creation of accessible musical instruments. Applications have just opened for the third round of funding and the scheme aims to help those “with innovative concepts aimed at addressing specific access requirements for yourself or others.” This - [Opportunity (England, 18+): Drake Music Emergents programme 2025-26](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-england-18-drake-music-emergents-programme-2025-26/) - Deadline: Wednesday 20th August 2025 Applications for the Drake Music Emergents programme are now open. Five up and coming disabled musicians will be awarded a £1000 creative bursary, an opportunity to showcase their work to industry professionals at an event, and a £500 development bursary. Creative development sessions will also be held twice per month. - [MIDI Innovation Awards: vote for accessible music products now](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/midi-innovation-awards-vote-for-accessible-music-products-now/) - Deadline: 4th August 2025 The nominations are in for the MIDI Innovation Awards 2025! You can now vote for your favourite entries across the following categories: Commercial hardware products Hardware prototypes and non-commercial products Commercial software products Software prototypes and non-commercial products Artistic/Visual Projects or Installations Best MIDI 2.0 product (across all categories) It is - [Opportunity: Manhattan International Music Competition - video submissions now open](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-manhattan-international-music-competition-video-submissions-now-open/) - Deadline: 1st August 2025 Online competition (video selection) Apply online From the Manhattan International Music Competition website: General Information 9th Manhattan International Music Competition PIANO - STRINGS - VOICE - WIND - CHAMBER MUSIC - COMPOSITION ​Over $ 50,000 in prizes - ALL ages ​ONLINE COMPETITION - VIDEO SELECTION ​APPLICATION DEADLINE: 1st AUGUST 2025​ First - [Event (Bristol and online): Emergent Harmonics - Innovation in Assistive Tech, Art & Echolocation](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-bristol-online-emergent-harmonics-innovation-in-assistive-tech-art-echolocation/) - Monday 14th July 2025. 09:00-16:30. The Watershed, 1 Canon Road, Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 5TX.Now online too! Click here to register in person or online using Microsoft forms (managed by the university of Bristol) Event Overview Advancing science and technology that elevates human dignity. Courageous. Cooperative. Conscientious. This one-day event, hosted by Dr. Kyle Keane, Senior Lecturer - [Next Meet-up: join Andre Louis as he composes the theme for our next season of podcasts](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/next-meet-up-join-andre-louis-as-he-composes-the-theme-for-our-next-season-of-podcasts/) - Next session: Thursday 17th July 2025, 7pm BST. Andre Louis composes the theme for our next season of podcasts. Register below! We are excited to announce our next Monthly Meet-up, featuring a live and interactive composition session with blind producer and musician, Andre Louis. Andre will use Logic Pro and Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol to - [MIDI Innovation Awards: nominate accessible music and audio products](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/midi-innovation-awards-nominate-accessible-music-and-audio-products/) - Are you aware of a product that has improved access to music-making in the last year and also uses MIDI in some way? If so, please encourage the developer to submit their product for consideration at the MIDI Innovation Awards! Products can be submitted until 8 July 2025. It would be great to see as - [Your ideas wanted! Help us programme the next season of Monthly Meet-ups](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/your-ideas-wanted-help-us-programme-the-next-season-of-monthly-meet-ups/) - I am incredibly happy to share that we have received a grant from RNIB’s Elizabeth Eagle-Bott Memorial Fund to support us to continue our Monthly Meet-up Sessions until March 2026. Firstly, I would like to say on behalf of everyone involved with the project that we are very grateful for this continued support. Future Meet-ups - [Opportunity (UK, 18-25): Drake Music Future Leaders 2025-26](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-18-25-drake-music-future-leaders-2025-26/) - Deadline: Wednesday 2 July, 9am Applications are currently open to Drake Music's Future Leaders programme! You can read more about Sound Without Sight community member Sarah Bayley's experience below. From Drake Music: After an extremely successful first cohort, we are excited to open applications for the second round of our Future Leaders programme. Find out more - [Last week to submit Audio Developer Conference 2025 talk proposals](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/last-week-to-submit-audio-developer-conference-2025-talk-proposals/) - The Audio Developer Conference is one of the main events bringing together music and audio technology designers each year. It would be great to see accessibility-related topics represented throughout the 2025 event. From the Audio Developer Conference website: Deadline for submitting your ADC25 talk proposal is June 29th! Only your talk name and abstract are needed. - [Event (online): Attitude is Everything host Reservoir Media's Creative Team to talk A&R](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-online-attitude-is-everything-host-reservoir-medias-creative-team-to-talk-ar/) - Monday 7 July, 4pm to 5:30pm BST From Attitude is Everything on Eventbrite: Have you ever wondered what the role of A&R? Guest speaker's Charlie and Tiff, will be sharing how their roles create impact. Thanks to our renewed partnership with Blue Raincoat, we are excited to announce the second year of the mentoring scheme - [Research call-out: accessibility and sustainability at the O2 Arena](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/research-call-out-accessibility-and-sustainability-at-the-o2-arena/) - Have you attended a show at The O2 Arena in the past year? Are you blind or partially sighted? Mihaela Georgescu is exploring how large-scale music venues balance accessibility with sustainability. She is inviting you to share your experience as part of her Master's research project in Creative Events Management at Falmouth University. Why this - [Help fight against the changes to Access to Work](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/help-fight-against-the-changes-to-access-to-work/) - You may have heard reports of changes to the Access to Work scheme, which supports disabled people to succeed in employment and self-employment in the UK. Community member Daisy Higman previously wrote how the scheme can support blind and partially sighted musicians. Among others, BAP!, Disability News Service and Disability Arts Online have covered the - [Opportunity (England): PRS Foundation Early Career Promoter Fund](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-england-prs-foundation-early-career-promoter-fund/) - Do you have a keen interest in arranging gigs but need a little support to get started? PRS Foundation's Early Career Promoter Fund could be for you. Next deadline: 10 July 2025 From PRS Foundation: The Early Career Promoter Fund is open again for applications after a successful first year of the programme. For the - [Opportunity (Wales, 18-35): The Birthplace Fund](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-wales-18-35-the-birthplace-fund/) - Deadline: 10 July 2025 From Beacons Cymru: Supporting emerging music creators in Wales In aim of supporting the current and next generation of original music-makers across Wales, The Birthplace Fund offers grants of up to £2,500 each, to ten successful applicants. Whether you're an artist, band, or music producer, this fund is here to give - [Opportunity (UK, 10-25): join ABRSM's Youth Advisory Board](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-10-25-join-abrsms-youth-advisory-board/) - Deadline: 30 June 2025 From ABRSM: Ever wondered how we select and grade music for our exam syllabuses? Interested in finding out more about our role as a global music charity? Perhaps you have some feedback or exciting new ideas you’d like to share with us? Maybe you’ve never taken a music exam or heard - [Opportunity (UK): Help Musicians Fast Track awards](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-help-musicians-fast-track-awards/) - Next deadline: Friday 25 July 2025, 5pm From Help Musicians: Support of up to £500 to help you seize an opportunity Sometimes, opportunities arise that can have a lasting, positive impact on your career as a musician. Whether it’s a short course, investing in new software, or taking opportunities to record, release or perform, our Fast Track Award is here to help you - [Opportunity (UK, 15-18): BBC Young Composer Workshops 2025](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-15-18-bbc-young-composer-workshops-2025/) - Deadline: Monday 23 June 2025 From BBC: Our free BBC Young Composer Days, in collaboration with BBC Music Introducing, will bring together young people aged 15 to 18 from across the UK, interested in developing their own original music. Who can attend? These workshops are designed for 15-to-18-year-olds already making their own music (through any - [Event (London): Charity piano concert in aid of the Amber Trust](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-london-charity-piano-concert-in-aid-of-the-amber-trust/) - From the Amber Trust: Fri 20 Jun 2025 - 12:00 pm 2:00 pm Putney Library, 5/6 Disraeli Road, London, SW15 2DR Join Derek Paravicini and Chapman Shum at the Putney Library on the 20th June 2025 for an afternoon of music in aid of The Amber Trust. Derek Paravicini is a world-renowned blind autistic savant pianist known for - [Opportunity (UK, 12-18): BBC Young Composer competition 2025](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-12-18-bbc-young-composer-competition-2025/) - Deadline: 25 September 2025 From BBC: The nationwide BBC Young Composer competition 2025 is now open! Do you love creating your own music? Whether you compose, produce beats, write songs, or experiment with sound in your own way – we want to hear from you! If you're aged 12-18 (on 1st July 2025) and based - [Pitch Pipe - an accessible Max for Live tuner](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/pitch-pipe-an-accessible-max-for-live-tuner/) - Hello everyone, it’s Iftah. Following Flufs, the accessible loudness meter I released back in March, I’m happy to share a new device: Pitch Pipe. It’s a really nice Max for Live tuner—fully accessible to blind, visually impaired, and sighted users. I again had the privilege of getting advice from Tim Burgess, who helped guide me - [Event (Online): MIDI Association Accessibility Webinar Premiere](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-online-midi-association-accessibility-webinar-premiere/) - The MIDI Association's Music Accessibility Special Interest Group (MASSIG) will host a YouTube Premiere on June 5th at 10am PT / 6pm BST. You can tune in here and ask questions in the live chat. The primary focus is on discussing advancements in making music creation more accessible for individuals with disabilities, along with updates - [Next Monthly Meet-up: MuseScore Studio tips for musicians with print disabilities](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/next-monthly-meet-up-musescore-studio-tips-for-musicians-with-print-disabilities/) - Next session: Wednesday 18 June 2025, 7pm BST. MuseScore Studio tips for musicians with print disabilities. We are excited to announce our next Monthly Meet-up, featuring a demo and Q&A with Peter Jonas! Peter is a Software Developer and Community Ambassador for MuseScore and Muse Group. Intended to complement James Bowden's previous demonstration of how - [Opportunity (18-25): Sontronics Scholarship for Abbey Road Institute](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-18-25-sontronics-scholarship-for-abbey-road-institute/) - Deadline: Friday 13 June 2025, 6pm From Sontronics: About the Scholarship At Sontronics, we believe in nurturing the next generation of audio engineers, producers, and creators. That’s why we’ve partnered with the iconic Abbey Road Institute to offer an incredible opportunity for aspiring audio professionals. The Abbey Road Scholarship is designed to provide financial support - [Opportunity (England): English Folk Expo 2026 - artist applications now open](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-england-english-folk-expo-2026-artist-applications-now-open/) - Deadline: Sunday 8 June 2025, Midnight From English Folk Expo: We’re pleased to announce that artist applications for EFEx 2026, taking place from Wednesday 18th to Saturday 21st March 2026, are now open! English Folk Expo is the annual showcase for folk, roots and acoustic music in England, attracting 170+ industry delegates to Manchester. Many of the showcases - [Event (London): Seeing Through Sound - Chapman Shum’s Musical Journey](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-london-seeing-through-sound-chapman-shums-musical-journey/) - From Sands End Arts & Community Centre: Friday 27 June 2025, 6pm - 7:30pm Sands End Arts & Community Centre, Peterborough Road, Fulham,London, SW6 3EZ Free event, no ticket required. A piano recital by Chapman Shum in aid of The Amber Trust. - [Event (London): Precious Akindele recital at the Foundling Museum](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-london-precious-akindele-recital-at-the-foundling-museum/) - Concert: Sunday 29 June, 2pm I am a visually impaired music student studying music at the BRIT school, and you can listen to my episode of the Sound Without Sight podcast here. I have a passion for classical composition and I’m so excited for this opportunity to showcase some of my pieces whilst also being able - [Young musicians Chapman Shum and Precious Akindele featured in 'The Piano' TV series](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/young-musicians-chapman-shum-and-precious-akindele-featured-in-the-piano-tv-series/) - From The Amber Trust: 🎹 Chapman on Channel 4’s The Piano | Heathrow Airport EpisodeAmber Music Award recipient Chapman Shum made a wonderful appearance on Channel 4’s The Piano, performing at Heathrow Airport in Series 3, Episode 5.Three years ago, Chapman arrived at Terminal 5 — the very first place he set foot in the - [Opportunity: 2nd International Music Competition for the Visually Impaired](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-2nd-international-music-competition-for-the-visually-impaired/) - Two years ago, then 13-year-old Amber Trust Award recipient Chapman Shum took part in The 1st International Music Competition for the Visually Impaired in Taipei, Taiwan. It was an inspiring musical exchange, where he not only won couple of prizes but also formed lasting connections with other VI musicians from around the world. Now, the 2nd edition of this - [Opportunity: last chance to apply for the ADC Mentorship programme](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-last-chance-to-apply-for-the-adc-mentorship-programme/) - From Jan Wilczek on LinkedIn: Calling all aspiring audio software developers... Would you benefit from an audio industry mentor? Looking for an audio programming mentor who can answer your questions about the community, provide career advice, and help you advance in the field—all free of charge? Don't wait! The Audio Developer Conference Mentorship Program submission deadline - [Next Meet-up announced: esteemed BBC journalist, Gary O'Donoghue](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/next-meet-up-announced-esteemed-bbc-journalist-gary-odonoghue/) - Next session: Thursday 15 May 2025, 7pm UK time. Featuring Q&A with Gary O'Donoghue. We are excited to announce our next Monthly Meet-up, featuring a Q&A with esteemed journalist, Gary O’Donoghue! Gary reports for BBC News and was recently promoted to Chief North America Political Correspondent. We expect that this session will appeal especially to - [Event (London and online): DMLab with Rhiannon Armstrong & Simon East](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-london-and-online-dmlab-with-rhiannon-armstrong-simon-east/) - Drake Music's DMLab London returns on Monday 16 June at Rich Mix and online! From Eventbrite: Doors open 6.30pm, with presentations starting at 7pm. DMLab is a space for Disabled and Non-Disabled musicians, technologists, and makers to exchange practices and explore new accessible instruments. At this event, we’re delighted to welcome presentations from: Rhiannon Armstrong (she/they): A transdisciplinary artist known - [Opportunity (London): RBO Youth Opera Programmes](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-london-rbo-youth-opera-programmes/) - Deadline: Friday 23 May From Royal Ballet and Opera: The Royal Ballet and Opera's Youth Opera programmes provide children aged 8 to 13 with rigorous music and drama training, creative projects and the chance to perform in world leading opera productions with The Royal Opera. RBO Youth Opera is divided into two strands: RBO Young Voices - [Sao Mai Braille 25.5 released with new music features](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/sao-mai-braille-25-5-released-with-new-music-features/) - Sao Mai Center for the Blind have released a new version of the SMB app. We include the music features below, but you can read details of all new features and improvements at the full announcement. From Sao Mai Center for the Blind: We are pleased to officially announce the release of Sao Mai Braille (SMB) version - [Sound Without Sight featured by MIDI Association](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/sound-without-sight-featured-by-midi-association/) - We are very grateful to the MIDI Association for featuring Sound Without Sight on their blog. We are proud to be part of the MiDI Association's Music Accessibility Special Interest Group. You can read the article at the following link: https://midi.org/sound-without-sight-empowering-blind-and-partially-sighted-musicians-through-community-and-innovation - [Opportunity: international music competition - get your music featured in new film](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-international-music-competition-get-your-music-featured-in-new-film/) - Hello Everyone, There’s a competition to write a piece of music to be part of a movie. You can pick between two scenes. To enter, make a recording of your piece and send it through the website, the winning piece is used as part of the film score. On the website, where it says classical - [Emma Tracey documentary out now: Braille and me](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/emma-tracey-documentary-out-now-braille-and-me/) - Previous Monthly Meet-up guest Emma Tracey this week released her documentary celebrating braille - listen below. From LinkedIn, Emma writes: "My documentary about braille is out in the world today and I’m so proud of it! The incredible producer Adele Armstrong and amazing sound designer Steve Brooke did an immense job! I had ridiculous amounts - [Sound Without Sight and RNIB to promote accessible notation at ABLE Assembly](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/sound-without-sight-and-rnib-to-promote-accessible-notation-at-able-assembly/) - Thanks to generous support from the DASIY Consortium and an anonymous individual donation, Sound Without Sight's Project Manager and RNIB's Music Support Officer Jay Pocknell will present at ABLE Assemble, Berklee College of Music, this weekend. The 2025 ABLE Assembly Conference, which takes place at the Berklee College of Music in Boston from April 11-13, - [April Meet-up announced - Curating Your Press Kit: the Importance of PR and Visual Content](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/april-meet-up-announced-curating-your-press-kit-the-importance-of-pr-and-visual-content/) - Next session: Thursday 24 April 2025, 7pm UK time. Curating your press kit: the importance of PR and visual content. You’ve got your next single, EP, or album ready to go, and you’re super happy with how it sounds. But what other digital assets could you be creating to help promote your release? We are - [LOOK: which song will you choose to represent the UK in the International Low Vision Song Contest 2025?](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/look-which-song-will-you-choose-to-represent-the-uk-in-the-international-low-vision-song-contest-2025/) - From LOOK: LOOK is thrilled to showcase the incredible songs submitted for the chance to represent the UK at the 2025 International Low Vision Song Contest This global competition provides a platform for blind and partially sighted artists to showcase their musical talent and creativity to an international audience. All of our visually impaired artists - [UK Music launches 'This is Music' survey](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/uk-music-launches-this-is-music-survey/) - From UK Music: As the collective voice for the UK music industry, UK Music needs information on creator’s earnings in 2024 to help it to calculate the economic contribution the industry made to the UK last year. This information is vital to policymakers and helps UK Music and its members argue for support for creators - [Event (Online): FAC 101 - How to fund your music projects with Sound Royalties](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-online-fac-101-how-to-fund-your-music-projects-with-sound-royalties/) - From Featured Artists Coalition: Join Alex as he runs through Sound Royalties’ creative-friendly funding options. Hear how to maximise your catalogue earnings, how the funding process works, and how other music makers have used advances to scale their careers. Sound Royalties is the industry's largest finance firm, having served thousands of creatives worldwide since 2014. - [Opportunities (UK): BBC Extend scheme job vacancies](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunities-uk-bbc-extend-scheme-job-vacancies/) - As mentioned by Emma Tracy in her Monthly Meet-up interview, BBC Extend is the BBC’s positive action employment programme for people who are deaf, disabled, or neurodivergent. The BBC has recently advertised vacancies in a number of journalism and editor roles across the UK. From BBC Careers: Whilst the BBC welcomes applications from disabled people - [Opportunity (UK, 14-18): 'In the Making' artist development programme](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-14-18-in-the-making-artist-development-programme/) - Deadline: Sunday 13 April 2025 From Sound and Music: In the Making is the UK's only year-long artist development programme for talented young music creators and composers aged 14–18. It supports those passionate about making music in any form and is open to all, regardless of instrument, musical interests, creative goals, background, or location. Each year, - [Opportunity (UK, 11-25): apply to audition for Regional NOYO Ensembles now](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-11-25-apply-to-audition-for-regional-noyo-ensembles-now/) - Deadline: 31st March 2025 From National Open Youth Orchestras: Application information Applications to audition for one of our Regional NOYO Ensembles in Birmingham, Bristol, Bournemouth, Cardiff or London are now open until 31 March 2025. Fill out the application form to apply to join NOYO in September 2025. If you’d like to learn more about what - [Event (online): AIM Sync 2025](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-online-aim-sync-2025/) - Tuesday 8th April from 10:00 to 18:00 BST. From Association of Independent Music: AIM Sync the UK’s leading global online sync licensing and brand partnerships conference and marketplace returns on 8th April 2025! The full-day online event connects in-house sync experts and leading music entrepreneurs with prominent international music supervisors in film, gaming, TV, advertising, brands and more. - [Event (Bristol): Above the Noise one-day music industry event](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-bristol-above-the-noise-one-day-music-industry-event/) - From Bristol Beacon: Thursday 3rd April Above The Noise is Bristol’s new music industry event designed for anyone actively working in music to connect them with the modern music industry and provide inspiration, advice, and insight they need to boost their professional skills. Bristol Beacon has joined forces with Association of Independent Music (AIM) to create this - [Event (Leeds): Launchpad Conference 2025](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-leeds-launchpad-conference-2025/) - From Launchpad's website: A free day of panels, workshops, presentations and networking for those working in, supporting or aspiring to work in the music industry. The Launchpad Conference returns for 2025. Join us on the 28th of March 2025 for a day of discussion, learning and networking, with speakers from the local music scene, and those working - [Opportunity (UK, 18+): Sound and Music Essentials Fund](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-18-sound-and-music-essentials-fund/) - Deadline: Thursday 20th March The Essentials Fund offers small grants of £250–£400 to support your artistic development by covering costs for self-learning projects, equipment, mentoring, or other expenses directly related to your work. From Sound and Music: We’re delighted to announce that applications for Round Two of the Essentials Fund are now open. Created to address the ever-increasing financial challenges of - [Opportunity (UK, 18-30): HQI360 music release programme](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-18-30-hqi360-music-release-programme/) - Deadline: 13 April 2025, 23:59 HQ360 isa first of its kind of programme designed to demystify the process of releasing your work. They're offering funding, hands-on mentorship, and industry access to help you explore your artistic identity and release music with impact. Open to music artists, visual artists, and aspiring music industry professionals aged 18-30. The programme is - [New Peer Support Group with Attitude is Everything and Tonic Music](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/new-peer-support-group-with-attitude-is-everything-and-tonic-music/) - From Tonic Music: Tonic Music are providing a new online Peer Support Group for those working in live music in any capacity who are Deaf, Disabled and/or Neurodivergent. Starting Monday 14th April, Tonic Music in partnership with Attitude is Everything and Music Minds Matter, will be providing an online six-week Peer Support Group exclusively for - [Opportunity (UK, 18-25): Play with Paraorchestra](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-18-25-play-with-paraorchestra/) - Deadline: 7 April 2025 Shared on behalf of Laura Mora Knight, Senior Producer, Artist Development at Paraorchestra: I’m getting in touch with you today to let you know about a free project Paraorchestra is running this summer, for musicians aged 18-25. Play with Paraorchestra is a new project for young disabled musicians offering them the experience of - [Opportunity (UK): sound engineers wanted to help steer DiGiCo accessibility improvements](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-sound-engineers-wanted-to-help-steer-digico-accessibility-improvements/) - Sight for Surrey are working with a local (to us) corporate organisation called DiGiCo. You may already be aware of them, but they make equipment such as the Quantum 326. They are aware of two blind sound engineers using their equipment, neither are based in the UK. DiGiCo are really keen to improve the accessibility - [Opportunity (UK): BBC music quiz show call-out](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-bbc-music-quiz-show-call-out/) - Shared on behalf of TV production company, Tuesday's Child: a new opportunity to be a contestant on The Hit List, a music based games show, has just become available. What is The Hit List? The Hit List is a music quiz show on BBC one, the contestants identify songs and artists from a range of - [Flufs - new accessible loudness meter](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/flufs-new-accessible-loudness-meter/) - Hello everyone, my name is iftah and I'm a Berlin-based artist, instrument designer, and developer of things. Author of CV Tools, Performance Pack, Microtuner, Time & Timbre, Sting, and more. In my daily work, I explore the intersection of music technology, data science, music information retrieval, and art. One of my main goals for 2025 - [Opportunity (UK, 18+): apply now - Elizabeth Eagle-Bott Memorial Fund 2025-26](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-18-apply-now-elizabeth-eagle-bott-memorial-fund-2025-26/) - Applications for grants dedicated to blind and partially sighted musicians are now open! Shared on behalf of RNIB: Elizabeth Eagle-Bott Memorial Fund (EEBMF) will continue in 2025-2026. The EEBMF will be making available: Awards of up to £2,000 for individuals Awards of up to £5,000 for third party applications It is hoped that these arrangements - [Opportunity: Fender Next artist development program](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-fender-next-artist-development-program/) - From Fender: Fender Next is Fender’s artist development program, designed to support emerging artists that represent the new face of guitar in music and culture. In 2025, Fender will select a new artist class of diverse genres, nationalities and identities for the program. Over the course of the year, we’ll provide these artists with gear - [March Meet-up announced: music producer and owner of school for visually impaired creatives](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/march-meet-up-announced-music-producer-and-owner-of-school-for-visually-impaired-creatives/) - Next session Thursday 20 March 2025, 7pm UK time. Byron Harden: producing music and providing training opportunities for visually impaired creatives. We are excited to announce our next Monthly Meet-up, featuring a presentation and Q&A with producer, studio owner, and technology trainer, Byron Harden. Byron will be speaking about: His music career - how he - [Opportunity (UK): Freelance musicians wanted for Royal Northern Sinfonia's RNS Moves ensemble](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-freelance-musicians-wanted-for-royal-northern-sinfonias-rns-moves-ensemble/) - This opportunity is for outstanding professional D/deaf, disabled and neurodivergent instrumentalists; who want to work as part of an inclusive ensemble and join a pool of freelance musicians. Deadline 7 April For access concerns contact classical@theglasshouseicm Type ‘RNS Moves Recruitment’ as the subject heading. Click the link below to find out more information https://theglasshouseicm.livevacancies.co.uk/#/job/details/215 RNS Moves is a - [Event: Attitude is Everything & Black Lives in Music Rest Salon](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-attitude-is-everything-black-lives-in-music-rest-salon/) - This is an online space for Black Disabled, Deaf and neurodivergent music creatives. Date 26 March Contact info@attitudeiseverything.com Click this link to find out more information: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/rest-salon-tickets-1109373669509 From Eventbrite: Join our new online space for Black Deaf, disabled and neurodivergent professional and music creatives who want to uplift, reflect and journey together Hosted by Eve Horne in - [Opportunity (UK): RPS Composers Programme](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-rps-composers-programme/) - Applications are now open for the Royal Philharmonic Society's Composers programme for promising UK-based composers establishing their careers. They offer a paid commission and premiere with a noted ensemble, venue or festival, dedicated mentoring, and professional support to help composers embed the skills, confidence and networks needed to build sustainable careers. Deadline 25 March, 11am Access support: - [Opportunity (Bradford, UK): Amplify - Music Development Labs](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-bradford-uk-amplify-music-development-labs/) - This is an opportunity for Bradford music creators of any genre to come together for a dynamic day of creative exploration and industry insight on the 21st of March. Contact information and details are below. Deadline 13 March Access support and travel costs are covered Contact hello@bdproducinghub.co.uk Click this link to find out more information about this opportunity. - [Event: Amber Trust's 30th Anniversary Concert announced](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-amber-trusts-annual-concert-announced/) - From The Amber Trust: We are delighted to present an afternoon of music on the 18th of May, featuring the talented musicians supported by Amber, and acclaimed pianist Derek Paravicini. Date and time: Sunday 18th May, 15:30 – 17:30 Venue: The Wathen Hall, Barnes, SW13 9JT Tickets: £20, Concessions £10 All proceeds from the concert will go - [Opportunity (UK, 0-18): Apply for the Amber Trust's Music Awards and Services](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-0-18-apply-for-the-amber-trusts-music-awards-and-services/) - Next deadline: 28 February From the Amber Trust's social media pages: A reminder that the next application deadline for our Amber Music Awards and Services is Friday 28th February.Our Music Services are open to all blind and partially sighted children and young people in the UK up to the age of 18, who may also - [Opportunity: join the UnMute Roster - an initiative to empower disabled musicians and improve access to live performance opportunities](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-join-the-unmute-roster-an-initiative-to-empower-disabled-musicians-and-improve-access-to-live-performance-opportunities/) - Continental Drifts and Global Local want to work with the disabled community to improve access to music and live events performance industries opportunities at UK events and festivals. From the Quick Explainer on Global Local's website: What is UnMute? UnMute is a new roster for disabled artists. Continental Drifts and Global Local want to work with the - [Event: Covent Garden concert in aid of Guide Dogs UK](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-covent-garden-concert-in-aid-of-guide-dogs-uk/) - Heya! Hope you are having a super week! Our names are Naomi and Hannah we just wanted to get in touch regarding a concert we are organising on the 16th March! It's at The Actors Church In Covent Garden. It's going to be an amazing night of Musical Theatre, we have west end stars Keelan - [Research (UK, 11-18): call for visually impaired music students](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/research-uk-11-18-call-for-visually-impaired-music-students/) - Dear blind and visually impaired musicians on this wonderful platform, I am writing to you from Edinburgh as a visually impaired musicologist, music educator, and vocal performer. I have come here from Turkey on a government-funded scholarship for a nine-month research project. My study focuses on "The Functionality of Braille Notation and Audio Technologies in - [February Meet-up announced: releasing and monetising your music](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/february-meet-up-announced-releasing-and-monetising-your-music/) - Next session Thursday 20 February 2025, 7pm UK time. Panel discussion: releasing, publishing, and licensing your music So you've written something cool and have a great sounding master ... what next? How do you get your music out into the world and what are the different ways you can earn money from your recordings? We - [Event: Round Table on Teaching Braille Music](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-round-table-on-teaching-braille-music/) - Dear Music Braille friends (with apologies for cross-posting, but please feel free to share with your networks). The DAISY Consortium’s Music Braille Project and RNIB would like to invite teachers of music braille – blind and sighted – to an online Round Table on Teaching Braille Music. Description: An international forum for blind and sighted braille music teachers - [Opportunity (UK, 18+): Help Musicians Next Level awards](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-18-help-musicians-next-level-awards/) - Current deadline: Friday 28 February 2025 From Help Musicians: Our Next Level awards are designed to support musicians ready to pursue a career-changing opportunity. If you’re a musician with a strong track record but lacking the resources to embark on larger and longer-term projects, then our Next Level award might help. With a programme of one-to-one business advice and peer support, alongside financial - [Opportunity (UK, 16-25): Music for Youth New Music Residency](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-16-25-music-for-youth-new-music-residency/) - Applications opening soon! From Music for Youth: What is the New Music Residency? The New Music Residency brings together artists and composers to work in collaboration and upscale their music for a performance at the Royal Albert Hall in London. In 2023, we had seven participants on the project, including Bee Bran (Singer Songwriter), Franklin - [Event: Together for Music Festival 2025](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-together-for-music-festival-2025/) - From Music for Youth: Together for Music 2025 – the Music for Youth festival for d/Deaf, disabled and neurodivergent young musicians. We are delighted to announce Together for Music, a specially designed inclusive music festival. This festival promotes groups of all abilities within the deaf, neurodivergent and disabled communities. Supported by Trinity College London's Awards and - [Event: Sound Connections' Inclusive Practice in Action 2025](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-sound-connections-inclusive-practice-in-action-2025/) - From Sound Connections: Inclusive Practice in Action 2025 - Unlocking Musical Futures: Overcoming barriers to progression for young people Thu 27 Feb 2025 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM GMT Rich Mix, 35-47 Bethnal Green Road, London, E1 6LA We are pleased to invite you to the Inclusive Practice in Action 2025 annual gathering focused on advancing inclusive practice in the music education sector and wider - [Nominations Now Open for the Youth Music Awards 2025](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/nominations-now-open-for-the-youth-music-awards-2025/) - From Youth Music: The Youth Music Awards, in association with Hal Leonard Europe, is back for its sixth year – and this one promises to be our biggest and best yet! With 11 categories, we're shining a light on music producers, lyricists, music leaders, trailblazing projects, and more. If you've taken part in a Youth - [Opportunity (UK, 11-25): join a National Open Youth Orchestra Open Rehearsal](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-join-a-national-open-youth-orchestra-open-rehearsal/) - From National Open Youth Orchestra: Join our Open Rehearsals in Bristol, Bournemouth, Birmingham, Cardiff or London! Is playing with a Regional NOYO Ensemble for you? If you’re interested in joining from September 2025, a great way to find out is to join one of our Open Rehearsals in person or online in January, February and - [Audio Project Workgroup wants your help](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/audio-project-workgroup-wants-your-help/) - Hello! My name is Elizabeth and I am writing to you on behalf of a group of beginner and professional audio developers. We met at the Audio Developer Conference and decided to join together and develop plugins to help us grow, learn to work in a team, and expand our portfolios. One of our founding - [December Meet-up - Joining the dots: braille music in the 21st Century](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/december-meet-up-joining-the-dots-braille-music-in-the-21st-century/) - Wednesday 18 December 2024, 7pm UK time. Joining the dots: braille music in the 21st Century. As the third and final part of our mini series on braille music, we are excited to announce our next Monthly Meet-up, featuring a presentation and Q&A with James Risdon! As part of the celebration of 200 years of - [Opportunity (UK): Music for All funding round 4 now open](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-music-for-all-funding-round-4-now-open/) - Deadline: 13th January 2025 From Music for All: Music for All’s next funding round of 2024 is NOW OPEN to applicants! We are delighted to be providing funding opportunities for both community projects and individuals. See below for full details on our latest funding round. Please read the eligibility criteria and instructions carefully before applying. For further information and FAQs see - [Opportunity (UK, 5-17): Young Sounds UK Thrive funding](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-5-17-young-sounds-uk-thrive-funding/) - From Young Sounds UK: Funding young talent UK-wide. Through our Thrive programme, we support young instrumentalists, singers, songwriters, composers and producers with funding (Awards) and other help to develop their musical potential. When you join the programme, you join a community of talented young musicians from across the UK and get free musical opportunities and - [Next Meet-up announced: live demo of braille music translation using Sao Mai Braille (SMB)](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/next-meet-up-announced-live-demo-of-braille-music-translation-using-sao-mai-braille-smb/) - Next session Thursday 21st November 2024, 7pm UK time. Featuring a live demonstration of braille music translation using Sao Mai Braille (SMB). As a follow-up to our popular MuseScore Studio demo, we are excited to announce our next Monthly Meet-up, which will feature a live demo of Sao Mai Braille (SMB) and its ability to translate MusicXML - [Opportunity (UK): Take Five Talent Development Programme](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-take-five-talent-development-programme/) - Deadline: Friday 29th November From Serious: Serious is delighted to open applications for the landmark 20th Edition of Take Five, its flagship talent development programme for emerging jazz and improvising musicians. Every year Take Five gives eight of the UK’s most talented creative jazz and improvising artists the opportunity to take time out to develop - [Paid opportunity (UK): visually impaired Sound Designer wanted for new musical workshop](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/paid-opportunity-uk-visually-impaired-sound-designer-wanted-for-new-musical-workshop/) - Seeking blind or visually impaired Sound Designer for an upcoming workshop of the new musical, ‘Otto Weidt’s Brush & Broom Workshop for the Blind’. Submission deadline: 23:59 (GMT) on Tuesday, 12th November, 2024 Workshop dates: 13th January to 4th February, 2025 Fee: A fee of £1,972 will be paid. Where necessary, accommodation, meal, and travel - [Paid opportunity (UK): calling visually impaired, early-career Theatre Artists for new musical workshop](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/paid-opportunity-uk-calling-visually-impaired-early-career-theatre-artists-for-new-musical-workshop/) - Call for applications We are thrilled to offer Associate Artist positions to four blind or visually impaired early-career theatre artists of any discipline in the upcoming workshop of the new musical, ‘Otto Weidt’s Brush & Broom Workshop for the Blind’. Application deadline: 23:59 (GMT) on Tuesday 12th November, 2024 Workshop dates: 13th January to 4th - [Opportunity (UK): Immersive Arts Funding](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-immersive-arts-funding/) - Deadline: Mon 2 Dec. Immersive Arts is a brand new funding and support programme for UK-based artists, designed to help them develop their art by using immersive technologies. You don’t have to be tech-savvy (though you can be) to apply. All you need is a curious mind and a creative practice. This exciting funding and - [Release of Sao Mai Braille (SMB) 24.11.5](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/release-of-sao-mai-braille-smb-24-11-5/) - New update to Sao Mai Braille (SMB), featuring many improvements to its music functionality. Just in time for our demo in two weeks time! Music-related changes Improve the music profile management page: fix the error when removing a profile, and provide a report when performing actions such as saving as a new profile, loading a - [Opportunity (UK): Sound and Music 'In Motion' artist development programme](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-sound-and-music-in-motion-artist-development-programme/) - Location: UK-wideDeadline: Wednesday 4 DecemberAccess: Alternate application formats accepted. Contact Grace Bailey to inquire about or arrange access support: Grace.Bailey@SoundandMusic.org From Sound and Music: In Motion is an 18-month artist development programme, which supports 10 composers to design and undertake their own creative and professional journey. During your time on the programme, you will develop - [Opportunity (UK): the Gardner’s Trust Braille Music Literacy Awards are back - apply now!](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-the-gardners-trust-braille-music-literacy-awards-are-back-apply-now/) - Introduction It’s that time of year again—the 2024-25 season of the Gardner’s Trust Braille Music Literacy Awards (GTLA) is here. These awards offer a fun, low-pressure opportunity to showcase your braille music skills and receive expert feedback to help elevate your studies (and who knows, you might even win a prize!). Sponsored by the Gardner’s - [Opportunity (UK): Sound Roots Artist Mentoring pathway](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-uk-sound-roots-artist-mentoring-pathway/) - Location: UK-wideDeadline: Friday 3 January 2025Access: Alternative application formats, email: adee@soundroots.uk The Sound Roots Artist Mentoring Pathway (previously known as the English Folk Expo Artist Mentoring Programme) has been running since 2018 and equips emerging folk, roots and acoustic musicians with the skills, networks and experience to build their music career sustainably. Over 12 months, this intensive - [Opportunity (North England): Factory International Fellowship](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-north-england-factory-international-fellowship/) - Deadline: Monday 9 DecemberLocation: ManchesterAccess support: artist.development@factoryinternational.org From Factory International: Our Fellowship supports artists at a transitional stage in their career to stretch their practice in different directions. The Factory Fellowship returns in 2025 with a unique opportunity for six artists based in the North to scale up their ambition through gaining insight into how - [Event: Drake Music DMLab North-West](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-drake-music-dmlab-north-west/) - From Drake Music: Accessible music technology in Manchester! Date: Tuesday 19 NovemberTime: 6pmVenue: SODA, Manchester Metropolitan University14 Higher Chatham Street, Manchester, M15 6ED This month, we're back at School of Digital Arts (SODA) in Manchester for the next episode of accessible music-making at DMLab North-West. If you're not familiar with these sessions, DMLab is a - [ADC24: RNIB and Sound Without Sight to host workshop](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/adc24-rnib-and-sound-without-sight-to-host-workshop/) - Introduction Following the success of our workshop at last year's Audio Developer Conference ('An Introduction to Inclusive Design of Audio Products'), we are delighted to be presenting a follow up this year, on Monday 11th November 2024. Taking place in-person in Bristol and online, the session will promote the work happening across the audio industry - [The MIDI Association promotes accessibility at Music China](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/the-midi-association-promotes-accessibility-at-music-china/) - Music China, the international trade fair in Shanghai, has established itself as the leading platform in Asia for musical instruments and accessories. This year, the MIDI Association attended, hosting several presentations. Athan Billias writes: "Music China and the Chinese Musical Instrument Association (CMIA) have really stepped up their support for MIDI and digital music making - [Event (Attitude is Everything): Talk and Q&A with Elton Jackson, Director of Artist and Employee Wellbeing at Sony Music UK](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-attitude-is-everything-talk-and-qa-with-elton-jackson-director-of-artist-and-employee-wellbeing-at-sony-music-uk/) - From Attitude is Everything: Thursday 14th November, 16:30 - 18:00, Online Our September Beyond the Stage series session is in collaboration with Sony Music UK, and will be presented by Elton Jackson. Elton Jackson has been Sony Music UK’s Director of Artist and Employee Wellbeing for three years, overseeing wellbeing support for artists and employees, - [Event (Attitude is Everything): Access to income - get started with PPL](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-attitude-is-everything-access-to-income-get-started-with-ppl/) - From Attitude is Everything: Make sure you are not missing out on income streams by attending this workshop with PPL. PPL is is the UK’s music licensing company. Watch this video to understand more. Wednesday, November 6 · 4:30 - 5:30pm GMTOnline Without income it can be hard to invest in self-promotion. We want to boost - [Opportunity (Wales, 18-28): Forté Talent Development Programme](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-wales-18-28-forte-talent-development-programme/) - Open to anyone aged 18-28 and living in Wales and is making music. Location: TBCDate: January - June 2025 Deadline: Sunday 3 November Link: https://forteproject.co.uk/apply From ForteProject.co.uk: In 2025, Forté Project continues to deliver its ground-breaking talent development model that supports and celebrates young music creators in Wales. Forté Project plays an integral part in shaping a new future - [Event: Drake Music DMLab London | New Perspectives](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/event-drake-music-dmlab-london-new-perspectives/) - From Drake Music: DMLab London is a space for Disabled and Non-Disabled musicians, technologists, and makers to exchange practices and explore new accessible instruments. Join us at Rich Mix as we explore accessible instruments in action at our next DMLab London session. When: Monday 25 NovemberTime: 6-8.30pmVenue: Rich Mix, 35-47 Bethnal Green Road, London, E1 6LA OR live streamWe’re - [Next Meet-up announced: live demo of MuseScore Studio with a screen reader](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/next-meet-up-announced-live-demo-of-musescore-studio-with-a-screen-reader/) - Next session Thursday 17th October 2024, 7pm UK time. Featuring a live demonstration of MuseScore Studio with a screen reader. We are excited to announce our next Monthly Meet-up, featuring a demo by headline guest James Bowden! James is Braille Technical Officer at RNIB, and his feedback has been key in shaping the development of - [Focusrite expands its range of accessible Scarlett audio interfaces](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/focusrite-expands-its-range-of-accessible-scarlett-audio-interfaces/) - Focusrite has announced the expansion of its 4th-gen Scarlett range of audio interfaces, which are all compatible with their screen reader friendly Focusrite Control 2 software. Joining the Solo, 2i2 and 4i4 devices are the more capable 16i16, 18i16, and 18i20. The new additions all have more audio inputs and outputs than those released last - [Opportunity: Supported Application Scheme for Guildhall School of Music and Drama](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-supported-application-scheme-for-guildhall-school-of-music-and-drama/) - At our 'In Tune with Success' event, our panel discussed studying at a conservatoire as one potential pathway into a music career, and how the competitive nature of applications can be perceived as a barrier. Guildhall School of Music and Drama have just launched their Supported Application Scheme, which offers "a free application, workshops, advice - [You can now search for VI-confident music teachers](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/you-can-now-search-for-vi-confident-music-teachers/) - Have you ever struggled to find a music teacher who is confident teaching a blind or partially sighted person? This shouldn't be the case, but we hear it all too often. We are excited to share that we have supported MusicTeacher.com to allow users to filter teachers by access requirements that they can support. There - [BBC presenter and podcast producer announced for September Meet-up](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/bbc-presenter-and-podcast-producer-announced-for-september-meet-up/) - Next session Thursday 19th September 2024, 7pm UK time. Featuring Emma Tracey. We are excited to announce our next Monthly Meet-up, featuring headline guest Emma Tracey! Emma is a blind podcast producer, presenter, and journalist working at the BBC. Of course, everyone is welcome, but we believe this session would be of particular interest to - [Touch tour available for Paraorchestra BBC Prom at Bristol Beacon](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/touch-tour-available-for-paraorchestra-bbc-prom-at-bristol-beacon/) - From Bristol Beacon: The Virtuous Circle Charles Hazlewood and Paraorchestra Sat 24 Aug 2024, 18:00 & 20:30Bristol Beacon Exploring the orchestra as the ultimate embodiment of teamwork, this new work recasts the classical concert as an immersive experience. In The Virtuous Circle, Paraorchestra perform in perfect synchronicity, playing Mozart’s Symphony No. 40 on the move, combining with - [Accessible Instrument Development Funding from Drake Music](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/accessible-instrument-development-funding-from-drake-music/) - From Drake Music: We are thrilled to announce that applications are now open for our second round of funding grants to support the creation of new accessible musical instruments! About the Seed Funding At DMLab we are proud to have supported several new accessible instrument designs that help to overcome barriers faced by Disabled musicians. - [Could you appear on Attitude is Everything's Mixtape?](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/could-you-appear-on-attitude-is-everythings-mixtape/) - From Attitude is Everything: PPL, the UK’s music licensing company for performers and recording rightsholders, has awarded funding to Attitude is Everything to support the charity in establishing a creative collective. The creative collective will work with six deaf, disabled and neurodivergent artists across Manchester and Birmingham aged over 25 to explore accessibility of the - [Apply to become an Attitude is Everything Future Leader](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/apply-to-become-an-attitude-is-everything-future-leader/) - From Attitude Is Everything: Applications are now open for Attitude is Everything’s third edition of the Future Leaders Programme, funded by the National Lottery Community Fund. From October 2024 to September 2025, we will support 12 disabled people who are at an early stage of their careers in the music and live events industry. The - [Soprano and disability arts trailblazer announced for August Meet-up](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/soprano-and-disability-arts-trailblazer-announced-for-august-meet-up/) - Next session Thursday 15th August 2024, 7pm UK time. Featuring Joanne Roughton-Arnold. We are excited to announce our next Monthly Meet-up, featuring headline guest Joanne Roughton-Arnold! Joanne is a visually impaired operatic soprano, CEO, and disability arts trailblazer. Of course, everyone is welcome, but we believe this session would be of particular interest to aspiring performers - [New official MuseScore Accessibility tutorial published](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/new-official-musescore-accessibility-tutorial-published/) - From Peter Jonas, MuseScore Community Ambassador: "We just published a new video tutorial for keyboard and screen reader users. The tutorial describes how to create a new score from a template in MuseScore Studio. You can also find the tutorial within MuseScore Studio on the Home > Learn screen. If MuseScore Studio is open already, you may - [Tosca at the Royal Opera House with recorded audio description for every performance](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/tosca-at-the-royal-opera-house-with-recorded-audio-description-for-every-performance/) - RNIB Connect Radio podcast about accessible opera and ballet. In a first for opera audio description at the Royal Opera House in London, there will be recorded audio description available at all of the performances of Tosca in July along with touch tours prior to the performances on Tuesday 16 and Friday 19 July at - [Be My Eyes' competition: share your creative uses for the app](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/be-my-eyes-competition-share-your-creative-uses-for-the-app/) - Be My Eyes have announced their new monthly ‘Can You Top This?” contest, saluting the most creative or uses of their app - either using their volunteers or AI. You can enter here with a chance to win prizes. Here at Sound Without Sight, we would love to hear your examples of how the app - [Support for future Monthly Meet-ups confirmed - have your say!](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/support-for-future-monthly-meet-ups-confirmed-have-your-say/) - Following a successful pilot of five volunteer-led Monthly Meet-up Sessions, we are very happy to share that Sound Without Sight has been awarded a grant from RNIB’s Elizabeth Eagle-Bott Memorial Fund to sustain these sessions until July 2025. This support will allow us to offer a fee to our headline guests, cover some of the - ['In Tune with Success': education and professional pathways for VI musicians. Panel discussion announced for next Monthly Meet-up.](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/in-tune-with-success-education-and-professional-pathways-for-vi-musicians-panel-discussion-announced-for-next-monthly-meet-up/) - We are excited to announce our next Monthly Meet-up and have something extra special lined up for this month! In collaboration with LOOK and Thomas Pocklington Trust Student Support Service, we will be hosting a panel of three very special guests: Bobby Goulder, who has built a career as a musician after graduating from a - [Play with Paraorchestra - Applications open now](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/play-with-paraorchestra-applications-open-now/) - Play with Paraorchestra is a new opportunity for young disabled musicians to experience playing on a Paraorchestra project. Deadline for this opportunity is 10am Monday 1st July 2024 Over the course of a two day workshop in autumn 2024 a small group of young disabled musicians, accompanied by a parent, guardian or carer, will explore - [NZ Opera adds braille surtitles in inclusivity move](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/nz-opera-adds-braille-surtitles-in-inclusivity-move/) - Recently, NZ Opera (a New Zealand based opera company) has introduced braille surtitles to their performances. This means that blind and deaf/blind audiences can now follow along with what’s going on in the story, where is before, these captions were only displayed above the stage. Read more about how it works in the article at - [Paid research interview invitation: Modified Stave Notation / large print music](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/modified-stave-notation-large-print-music-research-interview-invitation/) - Dr. Yu Lee An and Professor William Payne are researchers at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. They are studying how visually impaired musicians and educators acquire and use Modified Stave Notation/Large-print music. The goal of the study is to determine whether the current resources and technologies are meeting the needs of musicians who - [Visually Impaired Composer Zoe Dixon - JCS summer concert](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/visually-impaired-composer-zoe-dixon-jcs-summer-concert/) - Zoe Dixon, a visually impaired composer, attended New College Worcester, along with studying at the Junior Department at the Birmingham Conservatoire, and went onto study Music, specialising in Composition, taught by Robert Saxton and Thomas Hyde, at Worcester College, Oxford, where she gained a first class degree in 2021. Additionally, she was a choral scholar - [Extension to 'Burnout in VI musicians' survey deadline](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/extension-to-burnout-in-vi-musicians-survey/) - Hi all, hope you’re well. As previously posted, as part of my internship at Sound Without Sight, I am conducting a research project on the effects of burnout on visually impaired musicians. I have extended the deadline for my questionnaire and it is now Tuesday, the 18th June. I would be grateful if you could - [Learning music as a VI person: panel discussion announced for next Monthly Meet-up](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/learning-music-as-a-vi-person-panel-discussion-announced-for-next-monthly-meet-up/) - We are excited to announce our next Monthly Meet-up and have something extra special lined up for this month! We will be hosting a panel of three very special guests: Andre Louis, a renowned jazz composer and music technology accessibility consultant; Kevin Satizabal, a composer and music journalist, who currently works for the BBC; and Clare Gailans, - [PhD stipend in audio-only VR game with personalised 3D sound for blind gamers](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/phd-stipend-in-audio-only-vr-game-with-personalised-3d-3d-sound-for-blind-gamers/) - Are you a Danish speaker with a Masters degree? If so, check out the following PhD opportunity. From Aalborg University: "At the Technical Faculty of IT and Design, Department of Electronic Systems, a PhD stipend in Audio Only VR Game with Personalized 3D Sound for Blind Gamers is available within the general study programme Electrical - [A message from Sight Village: Calling VIP Entertainers](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/a-message-from-sight-village-calling-vip-entertainers/) - Sight Village is 30 and celebrating. We’ve been at the heart of the vision impaired community with our exhibitions at venues throughout the UK for three decades and want to bring everyone together for an unmissable event taking place at Sight Village Central on the evening of Monday 8th July after the main exhibition. Are - [GitHub’s “Coding Accessibility”: How NVDA & OSARA are empowering blind people globally](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/githubs-coding-accessibility-how-nvda-osara-are-empowering-blind-people-globally/) - From GitHub YouTube channel: In the latest episode of GitHub’s “Coding Accessibility” video series, we meet Michael “Mick” Curran and Jamie Teh, the creators of the open-source NVDA (NonVisual Desktop Access) screen reader. We also meet members of a community of blind and low-vision developers, musicians, and audio engineers who use NVDA and OSARA, a - [TAVIP Masterclass: Accessible Podcast Production by Dave Williams - Wednesday 15 May at 7:30pm BST](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/tavip-masterclass-accessible-podcast-production-by-dave-williams-wednesday-15-may-at-730pm-bst/) - Podcasting can be a tremendous tool for individuals and organisations to build communities, connect with audiences, share expertise, or simply have a bit of audio fun. But how do you get started with making your own podcast? And what are some of the particular challenges we face as blind or partially sighted podcast producers? You - [Research project: Burnout in VI Music professionals and volunteers](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/research-project-burnout-in-vi-music-professionals-and-volunteers/) - Hi all, I am undertaking a small scale research project, looking at the effects of burnout in visually impaired musicians/professionals and volunteers. As part of this research, I have created a survey together some primary research and data. I am hoping to: Establish the rate of burnout in VI musicians so I can compare with - [May Monthly Meet-up: meet the composer and musician who has worked with acts as diverse as Taylor Swift, Dizzee Rascal, and Dr John](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/may-monthly-meet-up-meet-the-composer-and-musician-who-has-worked-with-acts-as-diverse-as-taylor-swift-dizzee-rascal-and-dr-john/) - We are excited to announce our next Monthly Meet-up will take place on Thursday 16th May at 7pm. It will feature headline guest, Ben Somers. Ben is a visually impaired composer, arranger, session player, and educator who has worked with pop artists such as Seal, Dizzee Rascal, and Taylor Swift, and jazz artists including Jazz - [Blind pianist Ethan Loch featured on BBC's 'The Culture Scene'](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/blind-pianist-ethan-loch-featured-on-bbcs-the-culture-scene/) - From BBC iPlayer: "Making Music Talk. Twenty-year-old piano virtuoso Ethan Loch won the BBC Young Musician Keyboard final in 2022. We meet Ethan as he studies at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, composes his first concerto, and sets sail on a solo performance career." Watch documentary - [Community member Jessica Tomlinson interviewed on ArtsAbly](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/community-member-jessica-tomlinson-interviewed-on-artsably/) - Jessica Tomlinson is in conversation with ArtsAbly speaking about her lifelong love of music, summarizing briefly some accessibility considerations both in the recording studio and live performance spaces. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TnKwbAT2fCg - [World-class session bassist and educator announced for April Monthly Meet-up Session](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/world-class-session-bassist-and-educator-announced-for-april-monthly-meet-up-session/) - We are excited to announce our next Monthly Meet-up on Thursday 18th April at 7pm, featuring headline guest Ciara Moser. Ciara is a session bassist, composer, and educator with a mission to inspire through music, break barriers, and show the world that disabilities are not limitations. This session will be of particular interest for aspiring - [Sound Without Sight listed as support organisation for Arts Council's new 'All In' initiative](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/sound-without-sight-listed-as-support-organisation-for-arts-councils-new-all-in-initiative/) - We are excited to be included in 'All In'. All In is a new UK arts access scheme for D/deaf, disabled, and neurodivergent people. Creative and cultural experiences should be accessible to all. By removing barriers, organisations across the UK can welcome more people with access requirements through their doors. Together, we will work towards - [Sound Without Sight featured in international Community Arts Network newsletter](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/sound-without-sight-featured-in-international-community-arts-network-newsletter/) - We are excited to have been spotlighted in CAN's most recent monthly newsletter. CAN is an international network of community arts organisations. At the time of writing, CAN connects 799 organisations across 61 countries. Discussing Sound Without Sight, CAN writes: "Sound Without Sight is a community-led initiative that collates and commissions resources to support blind - [This weekend: Braille music event at Bristol Braille Technology](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/this-weekend-braille-music-event-at-bristol-braille-technology/) - Shared on behalf of Bristol Braille Technology. Calling all Braille music lovers: Bristol Braille Technology are now opening up the Braille Invention Centre, so that we can gather interested people to try out the Canute Console, and participate in its development. On Saturday, 13th April, we are holding a Music gathering, where we will be - [The Amber Trust’s Annual Concert](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/the-amber-trusts-annual-concert/) - Sun 19 May 2024 - 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm The Wathen Hall, St Paul's School, Barnes, SW13 9JT Buy tickets The Amber Trust is delighted to present another afternoon of music on May 19th 2024, featuring the amazing Derek Paravicini and some of the talented young musicians supported by Amber. Last year’s event was a spectacular success - [Upcoming tour dates for the National Open Youth Orchestra](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/upcoming-tour-dates-for-the-national-open-youth-orchestra/) - The National Open Youth Orchestra (NOYO) are going on tour! They are playing in London, Bristol, Poole and Birmingham. NOYO's mission is to open up the concert halls to those who might not think it’s for them, and perhaps inspire them to take to the stage one day. With 24 brilliant young musicians taking to - [Community member Malachi Tyler announces return of their ‘Malavision’ podcast](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/community-member-malachi-tyler-announces-return-of-their-malavision-podcast/) - Community member Malachi Tyler details the return of their weekly podcast, Malavison, in April. “Hello everybody, from the 21st of April new episodes will be published, making the frequency weekly again. To celebrate the podcast’s anniversary, which falls on the 10th of April, I will be interviewing an AI, yes, that’s right an AI.I’ll be asking questions, - [Musicians’ Union Members’ Voice: My Journey as a Blind Drummer, Sound Engineer and Educator](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/musicians-union-members-voice-my-journey-as-a-blind-drummer-sound-engineer-and-educator/) - From Musicians’ Union website: “MU member Steve Burge reflects on the challenges and opportunities that have shaped his career in the music industry, and his hopes for more inclusive music teaching and playing.” Read article - [The Eyes Have It: Mark Mothersbaugh on Focusing in on the Iris with Apotropaic Beatnik Graffiti](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/the-eyes-have-it-mark-mothersbaugh-on-focusing-in-on-the-iris-with-apotropaic-beatnik-graffiti/) - From Flood Magazine: “In the midst of Devo’s 50th anniversary tour, their frontman discusses his new art book documenting his eye-centric paintings and Beat-inspired stream-of-consciousness writing.” Read article - [Baluji Music Foundation publish ‘Blind to the Facts 2023’ report](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/baluji-music-foundation-publish-blind-to-the-facts-2023-report/) - From website: “The Baluji Music Foundation (BMF) proudly announces the release of transformative insights from its "Blind to the Facts" report, shedding light on the challenges faced by blind and visually impaired individuals within the UK music industry. This groundbreaking research, funded by the Vision Foundation and conducted by Dr. Claire Castle in collaboration with - [Paid opportunity - mini artistic exchange with Cuban musician](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/paid-opportunity-mini-artistic-exchange-with-cuban-musician/) - **This opportunity has now been filled** "Cultures of Participation" is a Cuba-UK disability network currently being developed by academics and disability organisations in the two countries, including ANCI (the Cuban member-led visual impairment organisation). One of the activities we’re currently working on is a small cultural exchange between UK artists and artists from Granma Province, - [Competition: your music or sound design in our podcast intro](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/competition-your-music-or-sound-design-in-our-podcast-intro/) - Hello all, Thank you for a great month. We launched our Monthly Meet-up Sessions, and have seen a real uptick in the News and Knowledge Hub articles contributed to the project. You may have noticed that we now have automated emails to our mailing list for each type of content. Excitingly, we have a batch - [March Monthly Meet-up with Ben Price: 1 week to go!](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/march-monthly-meet-up-with-ben-price-1-week-to-go/) - In case you missed it, we are delighted to be welcoming Ben Price as our featured guest for our next Meet-up Session, on Thursday 21st March. Ben is an established Artist Manager who focuses on supporting disabled musicians, and he is a prominent advocate for access within the music industry. Ben contributes to the British - [Together for Music festival celebrates inclusive music-making](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/together-for-music-festival-celebrates-inclusive-music-making/) - Music for Youth, Bristol Beacon and Trinity College London have come together to launch a brand new inclusive music event for young people. They are inviting you to watch the performances from talented young people, engage with inspiring talks, join a workshop and meet passionate organisations in the ‘marketplace’. Taking place on Monday 18th March, - [Tomorrow! Tune into the MIDI Association's Music Accessibility session from NAMM Show 2024, featuring Sound Without Sight](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/tomorrow-tune-into-the-midi-associations-music-accessibility-session-from-namm-show-2024-featuring-sound-without-sight/) - I am very grateful to the MIDI Association for the opportunity to present an overview of 'Accessibility and Inclusive Design within Music-making Products’ at the NAMM Show 2024. Also highlighting the MIDI Association’s Music Accessibility Standard initiative, the presentation will be premiere on YouTube at 6pm (UK time) tomorrow, Saturday 9th March 2024. The presentation - [RNIB's Elizabeth Eagle-Bott Memorial Fund 2024: applications open now](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/rnibs-elizabeth-eagle-bott-memorial-fund-2024-applications-open-now/) - The Elizabeth Eagle-Bott Memorial Fund (EEBMF) will continue in 2024-2025, and is now open for applications. The EEBMF provides financial support of up to £2000 for visually impaired musicians and grants of up to £5000 for organisations and other third parties whose work supports the activities of VI musicians. It is hoped that these arrangements - [Musicians' Union Members’ Voice: The Barriers to Music Education for Those With a Visual Impairment](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/musicians-union-members-voice-the-barriers-to-music-education-for-those-with-a-visual-impairment/) - Educator, singer-songwriter and MU member Alison Trelfa reflects on the barriers she has experienced working in music education, and offers her thoughts on how we can start to break them down. Link to article - [Last few days to respond to UK Music's Workforce Diversity Survey 2024](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/last-few-days-to-respond-to-uk-musics-workforce-diversity-survey-2024/) - In January, UK Music's Diversity Taskforce has launched its Workforce Diversity Survey. The survey collates data from across the music business including studios, management agencies, music publishers, major and independent record labels, music licensing companies and the live music sector. The findings of the survey give the music industry, government and other stakeholders a critical insight into where - [March Monthly Meet-up: featured guest announcement](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/march-monthly-meet-up-featured-guest-announcement/) - We are excited to announce our next Monthly Meet-up will take place on Thursday 21st March and will feature headline guest, Ben Price. Ben is a UK-based Artist Manager with a focus on disabled integration in the music industry. Please register via the form at the end of this post, as spaces are limited. About - [The Maestro Online - Where the Ear Comes First](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/the-maestro-online-where-the-ear-comes-first/) - Introduction A new platform, The Maestro Online, is now offering pop piano exams that require no reading of notation at all. They allow you to play by ear, improvise or create your own covers of songs, and have supporting resources that will help you find your groove without the need to read. Musical progression for all - [Introducing our Monthly Meet-up Sessions: 1 week to go!](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/introducing-our-monthly-meet-up-sessions-1-week-to-go/) - One week to go until our first Monthly Meet-up Session. We are very excited to bring members of our community together, and are delighted to be featuring Slau Halatyn as our headline guest. Please register via the link at the end of this post, as spaces are limited. About the meet-up sessions Sound Without Sight - [Opportunity: help improve access to music education for blind and partially sighted learners](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/opportunity-help-improve-access-to-music-education-for-blind-and-partially-sighted-learners/) - Arts Council England are funding RNIB to lead a short-term project between January and April 2024, which will consult with the music education and publishing sectors, to identify and develop strategies to improve the materials available to children and young people who require musical scores in alternative formats. RNIB are looking for a Freelance Project Officer to support this work - register your interest by 8th January! - [Accessibility on the agenda MIDI Association's Annual Meeting 2023](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/accessibility-on-the-agenda-midi-associations-annual-meeting-2023/) - We were very happy that accessibility was a key focus at MIDI Association's Annual Meeting 2023. Jay Pocknell (Sound Without Sight and RNIB) was invited to present an update on the state of accessibility in audio and music-making products. The event was attended by representatives from many MIDI partners such as Microsoft, Roland, Avid, Focusrite. - [Resources from the Accessible Music Publishing Round Table](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/resources-from-the-accessible-music-publishing-round-table/) - Following the Round Table on 21 November 2023, DAISY & RNIB are pleased to share notes and recordings for you to reference and share: https://daisy.org/accessiblemusicpublishing If you would like to join future conversations and help to get more scores to print-disabled musicians worldwide, please connect with the project at: musicbraille@daisy.org - ['Harmonising beyond vision': Sound Without Sight team feature on Music Industry Insights Worldwide podcast](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/harmonising-beyond-vision-our-team-features-on-music-industry-insights-worldwide-podcast/) - The Sound Without Sight team recently recorded a podcast for the ’Music Industry Insights Worldwide’ podcast, to chat about the work of the project. The episode is available to listen to now! - [Sound Without Sight on WolfTalk Podcast: How To Create Accessible Audio Software](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/sound-without-sight-on-wolftalk-podcast-how-to-create-accessible-audio-software/) - In this podcast episode, I interview Jay Pocknell; founder of Sound Without Sight, and a producer and mixing engineer from the UK. We discuss Sound Without Sight and Jay's path to becoming an engineer, which obstacles he needed to overcome, and how we as the audio community can remove some of these obstacles permanently. - [Audio Developer Conference: SWS and Call for Proposals](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/audio-developer-conference-sws-and-call-for-proposals/) - We are delighted to share that Sound Without Sight has been designated as a Community Sponsor of the Audio Developer Conference 2023. This article details ADC's commitment to accessibility and invites submissions of talk proposals. - [Work with us: paid Industry Engagement Internships](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/work-with-us-paid-industry-engagement-internships/) - We are very excited to share that we are now recruiting for two young people, who will help us drive the Sound Without Sight initiative across the music industry. - [ADC23: RNIB and Sound Without Sight to host workshop](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/adc23-rnib-and-sound-without-sight-to-host-workshop/) - Following the success of the ‘Inclusive Design in Harmony’ event held earlier this year, RNIB and Sound Without Sight will be hosting a workshop at this year’s Audio Developer Conference. The session will promote the work happening across the audio industry to support accessibility and inclusive design. It will facilitate roundtable discussion between key developers in the industry, also offering attendees the chance to ask questions. - [Join the Accessible Music Publishing Round Table](https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/join-the-accessible-music-publishing-round-table/) - Our friends, the international DAISY Consortium and the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) invite music publishers, composers, and music-setters/engravers to take part in their upcoming online Round Table on Accessible Music Publishing. ## Categories - [Accessible Notation](https://soundwithoutsight.org/category/accessible-notation/) - Reading and composing, screen access technologies, obtaining and creating accessible scores, large print and braille music, etc. - [Audio Production](https://soundwithoutsight.org/category/audio-production/) - Recording, editing, mixing, live/event sound work, radio, podcasts, audiobooks, etc. - [Culture, Industry, and Support](https://soundwithoutsight.org/category/culture-and-industry/) - Networking, artist/career development, attending events, well-being, support, etc. - [Inclusive Design](https://soundwithoutsight.org/category/inclusive-design/) - Tips for designing music and audio products inclusively and accessibly. - [Performance and Instruments](https://soundwithoutsight.org/category/performance-and-instruments/) - Music or audio performance of any kind; instrumental, vocal, speech/voiceover; individual or group; professional or amateur. ## Tags - [inclusive design in harmony](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/inclusive-design-in-harmony/) - [inclusive design](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/inclusive-design/) - [accessible music technology](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/accessible-music-technology/) - [accessibility](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/accessibility/) - [music](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/music/) - [music technology](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/music-technology/) - [adc23](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/adc23/) - [sound without sight](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/sound-without-sight/) - [conference](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/conference/) - [audio](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/audio/) - [competition](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/competition/) - [community](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/community/) - [Research](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/research/) - [blind musicians](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/blind-musicians/) - [Devo](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/devo/) - [mark mothersbaugh](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/mark-mothersbaugh/) - [partially sighted](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/partially-sighted/) - [Teaching music](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/teaching-music/) - [noyo](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/noyo/) - [reaper](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/reaper/) - [garth humphries](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/garth-humphries/) - [braille music](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/braille-music/) - [music braille](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/music-braille/) - [transcription](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/transcription/) - [translation](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/translation/) - [conversion](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/conversion/) - [large print](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/large-print/) - [enlarged music](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/enlarged-music/) - [MusicXML](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/musicxml/) - [notation app](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/notation-app/) - [notation editor](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/notation-editor/) - [Modified Stave Notation](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/modified-stave-notation/) - [audio developer conference](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/audio-developer-conference/) - [workshop](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/workshop/) - [Slau halatyn](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/slau-halatyn/) - [studio work](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/studio-work/) - [disclosing](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/disclosing/) - [language](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/language/) - [talking about sight loss](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/talking-about-sight-loss/) - [James risdon](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/james-risdon/) - [retail](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/retail/) - [user experience](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/user-experience/) - [software accessibility](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/software-accessibility/) - [audio software](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/audio-software/) - [musescore](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/musescore/) - [musescore studio](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/musescore-studio/) - [higher education](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/higher-education/) - [university](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/university/) - [college](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/college/) - [undergraduate](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/undergraduate/) - [conservatoire](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/conservatoire/) - [access to work](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/access-to-work/) - [access rider](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/access-rider/) - [legal rights](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/legal-rights/) - [equality act](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/equality-act/) - [employment](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/employment/) - [freelance](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/freelance/) - [Emma tracey](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/emma-tracey/) - [access all](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/access-all/) - [bbc](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/bbc/) - [meet-up recording](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/meet-up-recording/) - [opera](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/opera/) - [contemporary](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/contemporary/) - [guitar](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/guitar/) - [online lessons](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/online-lessons/) - [podcasting](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/podcasting/) - [podcasts](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/podcasts/) - [midi](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/midi/) - [drake music](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/drake-music/) - [dmlab](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/dmlab/) - [adc](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/adc/) - [adc24](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/adc24/) - [midi association](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/midi-association/) - [MASSIG](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/massig/) - [blind musicians collection](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/blind-musicians-collection/) - [aph](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/aph/) - [smb](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/smb/) - [sao mai braille](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/sao-mai-braille/) - [accessible notation](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/accessible-notation/) - [braille](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/braille/) - [braille200](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/braille200/) - [monthly meet-up](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/monthly-meet-up/) - [music industry](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/music-industry/) - [management](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/management/) - [artist development](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/artist-development/) - [sync](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/sync/) - [royalties](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/royalties/) - [distribution](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/distribution/) - [musescore.com](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/musescore-com/) - [taipei music foundation](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/taipei-music-foundation/) - [Chapman Shum](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/chapman-shum/) - [amber trust](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/amber-trust/) - [learning music](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/learning-music/) - [ableton](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/ableton/) - [Ableton live](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/ableton-live/) - [max for live](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/max-for-live/) - [bbc young composer](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/bbc-young-composer/) - [funding](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/funding/) - [abrsm](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/abrsm/) - [youth voice](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/youth-voice/) - [Logic](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/logic/) - [Andre Louis](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/andre-louis/) - [event](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/event/) - [events](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/events/) - [emergent harmonics](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/emergent-harmonics/) - [assistive tech](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/assistive-tech/) - [Berklee college of music](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/berklee-college-of-music/) - [ciara moser](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/ciara-moser/) - [paid opportunity](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/paid-opportunity/) - [adc25](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/adc25/) - [music education](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/music-education/) - [accessible formats in music education](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/accessible-formats-in-music-education/) - [flufs](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/flufs/) - [Mxshi mo](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/mxshi-mo/) - [opportunity](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/opportunity/) - [community showcase](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/community-showcase/) - [survey](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/survey/) - [webinars](https://soundwithoutsight.org/tag/webinars/) ## Authors - [Jay Pocknell](https://soundwithoutsight.org/author/jay/) - [Tilly Gerra](https://soundwithoutsight.org/author/tilly/) - [Lucien Jun Adelaide Freeman](https://soundwithoutsight.org/author/nervousharpist/) - [John Merriman](https://soundwithoutsight.org/author/johnmerriman/) - [Tony Stockman](https://soundwithoutsight.org/author/tstockman/) - [Bobby Goulder](https://soundwithoutsight.org/author/bobbygoulder/) - [Daisy Higman](https://soundwithoutsight.org/author/dhigman/) - [Guillem León](https://soundwithoutsight.org/author/guilevi/) - [James Risdon](https://soundwithoutsight.org/author/jamesrisdon/) - [Tim Burgess](https://soundwithoutsight.org/author/timburg1/) - [James Bowden](https://soundwithoutsight.org/author/jrbowden/) - [Matthew Rusk](https://soundwithoutsight.org/author/matthewrusk/) - [Precious Akindele](https://soundwithoutsight.org/author/pakindele/) - [Chun Shum](https://soundwithoutsight.org/author/chun/) - [Sarah Bayley](https://soundwithoutsight.org/author/sarahbayley/) - [Zenny Jabeera](https://soundwithoutsight.org/author/zennyjabeera/) - [Samuel Kenyon](https://soundwithoutsight.org/author/samuelkenyon/) - [Peter Bosher](https://soundwithoutsight.org/author/petersoundlinks/) - [marshall fairbrother](https://soundwithoutsight.org/author/mfstudios/) - [Jessica Tomlinson](https://soundwithoutsight.org/author/jtsoundtech/) - [Chris Ankin](https://soundwithoutsight.org/author/kkaccess/) - [Linn Davies](https://soundwithoutsight.org/author/linnd21/) - [Jan Wilczek](https://soundwithoutsight.org/author/janwilczek/) - [Rosi Smith](https://soundwithoutsight.org/author/rosismith/) - [Robin Harrison](https://soundwithoutsight.org/author/maestroonline/) - [Yu Lee An](https://soundwithoutsight.org/author/yuleean/) - [Ruby Phyall-Davis](https://soundwithoutsight.org/author/rubypd/) - [Amir Shoenfeld](https://soundwithoutsight.org/author/shoenfeldnburt/) - [Elizabeth Aryslanova](https://soundwithoutsight.org/author/elizabeth/) - [yusuf dumlupınar](https://soundwithoutsight.org/author/yusuf1968/) - [Naomi and Hannah Moxon](https://soundwithoutsight.org/author/nhproductions/) - [Iftah Gabbai](https://soundwithoutsight.org/author/iftah/) - [Clare Burgess](https://soundwithoutsight.org/author/clarewithnoi/) - [Sandra Gayer](https://soundwithoutsight.org/author/sandra/) - [Mihaela Georgescu](https://soundwithoutsight.org/author/mihaela/) - [Sarah Morley Wilkins](https://soundwithoutsight.org/author/sarahmw/) - [Annie Parker](https://soundwithoutsight.org/author/enmasse/) - [Ioana Gandrabur](https://soundwithoutsight.org/author/musioana/) - [Hannah Bennett](https://soundwithoutsight.org/author/drummerhannah/) - [Katrina Foxton](https://soundwithoutsight.org/author/kfoxton/) - [Joe Kenny](https://soundwithoutsight.org/author/joekennymusic/) - [Jeanie Willis](https://soundwithoutsight.org/author/jeaniewillis/) - [Emma Hameau](https://soundwithoutsight.org/author/emma/) - [SightlessKombat](https://soundwithoutsight.org/author/sightlesskombat/) - [Hunter Wiley](https://soundwithoutsight.org/author/hunterwiley/) - [Rebecca Legowski](https://soundwithoutsight.org/author/rlegowski1/)