What can investigating experiences of 3 disabled musicians working in Community Music offer to understanding inclusion in organisations?

Disabled musicians face specific barriers in become those who deliver rather than receive music. For example, those wishing to become community musicians may face environmental, structural and attitudinal barriers in their careers. A multiple case study investigated the experiences of 3 disabled musicians who worked for an inclusive music charity in Scotland, Limelight Music. Each musician was part of delivery teams of at least 3 community musicians which always included 1 experienced musician, 1 woman and 1 disabled practitioner. In-depth qualitative and cross case analysis identified themes as follows. 'Personalisation', each practitioner identified goals for professional development. 'Creativity' was through novel ways of delivering workshop as seen in new activities and structures created bu each practitioner. 'Disability-led: each practitioners' experience of disability informed new ways of working, adding to Limelight's expertise in inclusive music delivery. Conclusions are 1: appreciating artistic and pedagogical contributions of disabled musicians offers novel ways of envisaging professional identities, creativity, communication and inclusion and 2. for organisations, planning and funding applications need to account for the time taken to build relationships and develop inclusive practice. This is challenging in current funding climates but essential to achieve equity of access to careers in community music and the dynamic evolution of the practice itself.