1. Setting the scene with Music Videos

• Make sure that you have the right device and connection required
• Start with a musical conversation; find out what music matters to the person and how they liked to enjoy it. For example, did they prefer to attend concerts or watch musicals?  Once you know this, research what concerts or musicals are available to view
• Think about if you can try and make it a moment in their day by creating a sense of occasion? For example, can they watch with others? 
• Get comfortable – make sure the sound and visual quality of the film is good and set at the appropriate levels
• Set the scene. Are you able to provide a live musical introduction on your instrument? 

‍2. While watching, observe, engage and notice

• Watching videos together can spark interaction through conversation, movement and gestures. It is important to observe how the person is responding so you can interact with these communications, which might be non-verbal
• Take note of the range of their expressions and responses, and how this is communicated. Look out for what music seems to interest them and what doesn’t. What seems to excite them or calm them? What encourages movement and contact? 

‍

What are you noticing? 

Music has the power to transport us to other times and places. Often this can create real joy but sometimes, it can evoke unwanted memories or feelings

• Know that any response to the music, both positive and negative, is a key aspect of self-expression. It is important that you try and understand the feeling behind the expression; for example, tears could indicate either a negative response, or joy
• If a song or piece of music appears to be causing distress, agitation or unhappy tears, reassure the person or group that you’re going to change or switch the video off. Remember that you can always take a break and come back to the music
• Reassure the individual by sitting near them, holding their hand or using spoken communication. This can help to create a sense of closer connection during the moment
• Remember to make space during the video with conversation, movement or sitting together in silence if that is comfortable for them. The quality of the experience you are having is more important than the length of time you are watching for together

3. Until the next showing

• Note any observations that you think would be important to share with others
• Was there a particular response to the video or any comments the person made about their experience? Think about what worked, what didn’t and what you might do differently next time
• Were there particular songs or pieces that you can incorporate into the next live session or their playlist?

‍