Improvising Across Abilities: Pauline Oliveros and the Adaptive Use Musical Instrument

Improvisation is a powerful tool that can be used to bring people of all abilities together. Pauline Oliveros' AUMI is an inclusive musical improvisation instrument that has been used to create a sense of community and belonging among people of all ages, genders, abilities, races, and socioeconomic backgrounds. This book invites readers to use AUMI in their own communities and provides wisdom from those who have been affected by it. AUMI has been used as an avenue for people to build friendships with others whom they may have never otherwise even glanced at in the street, and to grow in listening to others who may speak differently.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 404 pages
Publication date: 31 January 2024
Publisher: The University of Michigan Press

Improvisation is a powerful tool that can be used to bridge gaps between people of different abilities, cultures, and backgrounds. Pauline Oliveros, a composer, improviser, and humanitarian, recognized this potential and created the Adaptive Use Musical Instrument (AUMI), a groundbreaking initiative that brings together scholars, musicians, and family members of people with disabilities to explore the societal and community impact of inclusive musical improvisation.

AUMI was designed as a liberating and affordable alternative to traditional musical instruments, which were often designed only for people with normative bodies. This innovative instrument opened a doorway for people of all ages, genders, abilities, races, and socioeconomic backgrounds to access artistic practice with others, fostering a sense of community and collaboration.

More than a book about AUMI, this publication serves as an invitation to readers to use AUMI in their own communities. It contains wisdom from many who have been affected by their work with the instrument and the people who use it, showcasing how music and extemporized performance have touched the lives and minds of scholars and families alike.

AUMI has provided a platform for people to grow in listening to others who may speak differently or not at all, fostering empathy and understanding. It has also been used as an avenue for a diverse set of people to build friendships with others whom they may have never otherwise even glanced at in the street. By providing a space for every person who comes across AUMI to perform, listen, improvise, and collaborate, the ongoing development of this instrument contributes to a world in which every person is heard, welcomed, and celebrated.

In conclusion, the Adaptive Use Musical Instrument (AUMI) is a remarkable initiative that has the power to transform the way we think about music and disability. By bringing together scholars, musicians, and family members of people with disabilities, AUMI has created a space for inclusive musical improvisation that celebrates diversity, fosters empathy, and promotes social change. This book serves as an invitation to readers to use AUMI in their own communities and to continue to explore the transformative power of music and improvisation.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780472055739