Clavinova Connection is a revolutionary, group-based music wellness program. This program is designed to encourage physical and mental improvement through music. The team of researches that developed this innovative program was made up of musicians, music therapists, a physician and a music educator The physician involved in the research, Barry Bittman, M.D., says, “For me it is impossible to ignore the intense impact of music on the human condition.” This program will not only help you learn your favorite songs, but will inspire you to express yourself musically. Whether you have always wanted to play music and never have or you are looking for a new venue to use the musical knowledge you have, Clavinova Connection is a wonderful social experience and will help you optimize your well-being.

The class is set up in three different levels, each lasting eight weeks requiring one lesson per week. As a participant, you will have your own clavinova keyboard to play on. The facilitator has the lesson plan on a particular clavinova and can control some of what goes on in each keyboard. Through Yamaha’s SmartLIGHTS technology, the facilitator unit can transmit lights to each student unit to help you learn the notes. Each class begins with a breathing and relaxation time. The facilitator will help guide you in movements and breathing techniques while the clavinova plays calming background music. Following, the class participates in a Drum Circle activity simply by selecting drums on their keyboard and all the keys instantly have percussion sounds. With an upbeat tune selected by the facilitator, you will immediately become the percussionist and play along with the music. Improvisation is the next activity that will allow you to play, on black keys only, whatever you desire. There is orchestral music that helps add to the experience while individuals instantly use their creativity and becomes a composer. The main part of the program happens when each student receives his or her very own piece of music and a disk each week. The SmartLIGHT system will help guide you in learning the pre-selected, familiar tune. Once the facilitator introduces the song and a few musical concepts you will be on your way to playing a new song each week.

Music Wellness Research

---