Alice Hammel is a widely known music educator, author, and clinician whose experience in music is extraordinarily diverse. She teaches for James Madison and Virginia Commonwealth Universities in the areas of music education and music theory respectively, and has many years of experience teaching both instrumental and choral music in public and private schools. She has maintained a large, independent flute studio for over 25 years. Her primary goal is to become a better teacher with each passing day.

Ryan Hourigan received the award for Outstanding University Music Educator from the Indiana Music Educators Association. He is the immediate Past Chair of the Students with Exceptionalities Special Research Interest Group for the National Association for Music Education and is a National Workshop leader for the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.

"This insightful text provides practical strategies grounded in the latest research. I appreciate each chapter's interesting, thought-provoking discussion questions. Hammel & Hourigan have created a progressive resource which music educators at all levels will find useful." --Ann Marie Stanley, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Music Education, Eastman School of Music

"What a practical resource for the music classroom! This book explains the jargon and provides insight into the humanity and privilege of working with students with special needs. Its many suggestions for adaptations/modifications are invaluable." --Berta Hickox, Elementary Vocal Music Teacher, Halifax Area School District, Halifax, PA

"Hammel & Hourigan have created a manual that provides a pathway to a better understanding of the myriad challenges of students with special needs in the music class, and clearly outlines both the opportunities and challenges music teachers may meet in providing their students a rewarding music experience. This book is a resource, a guide, and a handbook that should find a place of immediate and consistent access on every music teacher's desk." --Don Krudop, D.M.A., Vocal Music Chair, The Visual & Performing Arts Academy at Salem High School, Virginia Beach, VA

"Music educators teaching in early childhood through college settings can benefit from the resources and practical applications in this publication. Hammel & Hourigan provide means for educators to effectively teach ALL learners. Every music educator should own this valuable resource!" --Susan A. Harvey, D.M.A, Assistant Professor of Music, Midwestern State University

"An eminently practical guidebook that equips teachers with proven curricular strategies." --Teaching Music

"A wonderful guide for working with students who have special needs...Incredibly informative and an important resource for any teacher." --American Music Teacher

"Clear, concise, and accessible to music educators...The authors have done an excellent job of presenting their information...The book has a multitude of strengths, and I would highly recommend it for music ecucators at any stage of their careers." --Nancy L. Glen, Music Educators Journal