Anything’s Possible: The Power of Inclusion

Dreams Come True Music Studio after a rehearsal for their performance of Frozen Junior

Written by Allison O’Connor, founder of Dreams Come True Music Studio

It’s Possible. Anything’s Possible… Come learn about Dreams Come True Music Studio; an inclusive music studio for people of all ages and abilities.

‘Get up each day and sing your song.’ Dear friend Ken Fleet composed these precious words which we live by. Dreams Come True Music Studio aspires for everyone of all ages and all abilities to be able to get up each day and sing their song.

The studio celebrates diversity, inclusion, acceptance, and all abilities. Music, with its transformative power, has the ability to touch hearts and change lives. DCT is a living testament to this belief. I founded DCT as a haven for people of all ages and abilities. My goal was to provide a safe space where everyone can experience the magic of music, regardless of their background or challenges. DCT creates opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to participate in high-quality productions and to transform their lives through music.

By witnessing the magic of inclusion, you will be reminded that everyone deserves a safe, inclusive space to celebrate one another. I will share my personal journey of how my dream came true to create a truly inclusive music program.

My journey to create Dreams Come True Music Studio began with my son, Cameron. Adopted from South Korea, Cameron lives with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) and an Intellectual Disability. Despite his interest and passion, he struggled to find a place where he could express himself through music. Having spent my career teaching music with the Thames Valley District School Board, I recognized that many existing programs did not accommodate individuals like Cameron. This gap in the community, combined with the unwavering support from my family and friends, inspired me to create a program where everyone is celebrated for who they are.

It was April 2018 while walking my dog Max, chatting with my sister Heather on the phone about my dream to find a music program which was truly inclusive for all; one in which my son Cameron could be successful. He has been surrounded by music all his life and knowing the importance of music in life, I wanted Cameron to experience success with music. We found our love of sport through Special Olympics but we were missing the music piece. Because of his intellectual disability and FASD, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, he learns differently. But he learns. The goal was for Cameron to experience music and feel confident. Those of you who have been involved in music programs must relish the memories of your rehearsals, your concerts, your shows and your friendships made through music. I want that for everyone.

During that walk with Max, my sister said, “Stop looking for the program. Create it. You are a music teacher specialist and have been advocating for inclusion since you and Cameron became family.”

So began the adventure. We offer Summer, Fall and Winter programs all culminating in amazing Showcase Concerts. Rehearsals are spent together singing, moving, experiencing music and making friendships. We don’t try harder, we try differently. We are a family. We are not a special needs music group. We are not a kids’ choir. We are a fantastic, dedicated and energetic Musical Theatre group! I am so proud of every one of my musicians. It is a privilege to work with our families, musicians, caregivers, local agencies and spectacular volunteers who make our dreams come true. They teach me so much and I am grateful.

Our musicians: Wow! They are capable and we believe in them. We thank them for pushing themselves personally and musically. They make a difference.

One of the most significant aspects of Dreams Come True Music Studio is the opportunity it provides for participants to perform. These performances are not just showcases of talent but celebrations of everyone’s unique journey and growth. While one individual may find their voice and confidence after performing in front of an audience, another may discover a passion for acting they never knew they had. These moments of self-expression and personal achievement are what make DCT truly special, acknowledging and valuing each individual's growth.

Dreams Come True Music Studio is not just a place to learn music; it is a community where inclusion and acceptance are the guiding principles. The environment at DCT is one of friendship and acceptance, fostering a supportive and encouraging atmosphere. Volunteers empower musicians to shine in ways they never thought possible, instilling a sense of reassurance and confidence. At DCT, we don’t focus on trying harder but on trying differently, adapting to each person’s unique learning style and pace.

Dreams Come True Music Studio is a testament to the power of community and the belief that everyone deserves a chance to experience the joy of music. Through dedication, along with the support of families, musicians, caregivers, local agencies, and our beautiful volunteers, we have created a space where dreams genuinely come true. By supporting such initiatives, we can help create a world where everyone, regardless of their abilities, can belong to a community that values them and their unique contributions. DCT also helps foster lifelong friendships within DCT and beyond.

In a world that often overlooks the potential of those who learn differently, Dreams Come True Music Studio stands as a beacon of hope, proving that everyone can experience the transformative power of music with the right support and environment.

Please visit our website, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to learn about our DCT Family.

I want to thank my son, Cameron for believing in the power of Music. He provided the experiences for me to help make DCT happen. Being removed from programs, being told to look elsewhere, motivated me to show others what he CAN do. The journey can be lonely but now with our Dreams Come True Family, we are not alone. We believe. Thank you to our village of support for believing in my son, our DCT Family and our mutual passion for inclusion.

It’s Possible. Anything’s Possible.