We are thrilled to announce that ‘Count Me In!’ has arrived in Northern Ireland for the very first time!
Thanks to generous support from the Arts Council of Northern Ireland through its Annual Funding Programme, Live Music Now NI has launched a 10-week pilot of this inspiring programme at Donard Special School in Banbridge.
The Count Me In! Approach
Created by a team of leading academics and practitioners, Count Me In! is built on a powerful belief: disability and difference should never be a barrier to making music together.
The programme recognises that children with severe learning difficulties, who may find language and everyday communication challenging, can demonstrate remarkable and sophisticated musical understanding.
Rooted in the internationally respected Sounds of Intent framework of musical progression, Count Me In! enables every child to participate meaningfully in group music-making. Each child takes on a musical role carefully matched to their interests, strengths, and abilities — ensuring that everyone has a voice in the ensemble.
Leading the Way
The Northern Ireland pilot is being led by musician Cindy Yung, alongside project musician Jared Green. Together, they are bringing creativity, expertise and boundless enthusiasm to this exciting new chapter.
This pilot marks an important step in widening access to high-quality, inclusive music-making across Northern Ireland. We can’t wait to see — and hear — the incredible musical journeys that unfold over the next 10 weeks.
