David Kirtlan’s programme for iPad Band engaged over 250 children across the North East, culminating in a fantastic Battle of the iPad Bands on 13th July. Working in collaboration with the North Tyneside Learning Trust, and the North Tyneside Music Hub, the programme was an amazing success, engaging children and the wider community across North Tyneside.
We’ve had lots of questions about the #ipadband, so we’ve put together the answers to some of the most frequently asked ones here. Enjoy!
What was the ability range of the kids involved in the iPad band at NorthTyneside?
The programme involved schools from all areas including mainstream, SEN and SEMH. The iPad bands were made up of children of varying ability, and included those with learning difficulties and disabilities.
Are they all musicians?
No. The iPad bands were made up of musicians and non-musicians.
The point of an iPad band is to give non-musicians the opportunity to take part in a performance. Whereas traditionally non-musicians would be given a triangle, and told to hit it on every fourth beat, the iPad band enables them to actually play key parts as part the performance. This develops transferable skills such as listening, collaboration, leadership. self management etc. The iPad band allows non-musicians to access the benefits of music education; and along the way inspires non-musicians to learn to play an instrument.
How did the programme work?
After an initial teacher engagement/training day with the lead teachers, each of the schools were allocated one full day to work with David. The schools each selected their choice of song, and the songs were arranged by David. David ensured that each school was proficient in their song by the end of the day. After which, the schools were responsible for their rehearsals in order to prepare for the battle of the iPad Bands.
What app do you use for the iPad band?
Garageband. That’s it. There’s no wizardry or a combination of complicated apps, everything you hear is done through Garageband, whether played as instruments or used as an amp.
How long has David Kirtlan been creating iPad Bands?
As well as being one of the UKs top education consultants in digital learning, David Kirtlan is also the creator of the iPad band concept. When the iPad was introduced to the world, David saw its potential in enabling non-musicians to play a key part in performances alongside their musician peers. And so since 2010, David has created iPad bands in schools throughout the UK and beyond, bringing them into the consciousness of music teachers worldwide.
Does David Kirtlan create iPad bands with all schools and abilities?
Yes. David has created iPad bands with primary, secondary, FE and HE. He has also worked with SEN schools to create engaging music projects including iPad bands.

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