RiChmusic

RiChmusic sessions are a major part of the life of Parkview School since 2003 when Chris Blake first came to Parkview, leading workshops with RiChmusic co-founder Ricky Matson. 

Inspired by the reactions of many of the pupils to music, Chris introduced music lessons for individual pupils as well as class groups.

In 2010, after thirty one years as a professional musician, Chris resigned from the Ulster Orchestra to focus on providing music lessons to children with severe learning difficulties.

In December 2011 Chris graduated from Queen's University, Belfast, gaining a Distinction in an MSc in Autistic Spectrum Disorders.

Working alongside the Specialist Music Teacher Joanne Boyd,  Chris has a busy timetable over three days of the week which include individual pupil music Lessons covering a wide range of musical disciplines. 

The common theme in all RiChmusic sessions is the reluctance of pupils and staff to finish; such is the pleasure that all derive from the joy of the music.

Funding for RiChmusic is currently provided through parent donations raised through participation in Marathons and Fun Runs; the Parent Staff Association and in the last school year has also included a very generous anonymous donation.  Additionally some families pay for individual music lessons.