Lesley Crawford
Creative Music Facilitator and Technologist
Dream
Make
Do
My Philosophy
Through 15 years working in the community music and education sphere I have developed a core philosophy of radical inclusion and a deep understanding of the transformative power of meaningful creative participation. I fully believes that the arts hold the power to heal and connect, build confidence, communication, self-worth and can give voice to the complexity of human existence... and that everyone has a right to that experience.
My facilitation work takes me across charities, community groups, local authorities and grassroots organisations, bringing creative music making to children and adults with disabilities, additional support needs, neurodivergence and teenagers who need extra support. I'm passionate about providing inclusive and individual approaches which allow people to engage with music in a way that is meaningful to them.
At its most basic level my work is about bringing people together, listening and collaborating. I believe that music and art are fundamental human activities and I strive to create spaces where curiosity, play, expression and connection are encouraged and made possible through care and safety.
Collaboration is foundational to everything I do and I am committed to working flexibly and responsively, tailoring my approach and offering to the needs of the person or people in front of me. I work with individuals empowering them to turn their ideas into reality and elevate their voices on their own terms, creating the opportunity to be heard and to find joy and freedom in musical expression. They lead the work, shape the decisions and define what success looks like.
I am passionate about creating tailored and bespoke solutions that allow people to access music making where it would have previously been difficult, if not impossible. This can look like many things – alternative notation systems, instrumental adaptations or the creation of new ways to play and interact, always developed in full collaboration with each individual.
I am committed to the principals of equity and believe that through honesty and authenticity we have the power to build the communities, cultures and ways of being that reflect the complexity and diversity of life.
Dream big. Take risks. Reject gate-keeping. Redefine success. Do things. Life is messy, lets embrace it.
Qualifications
MSc Sound Design
Bmus (hons) - Music Technology
COSCA Certificate in Counselling Skills
Mental Health First Aid
Child Protection
PVG Scheme Member