Developed by Dr. Tim Anderson of the Drake Music Project, E–Scape is a highly accessible music composition and performance program.

It differs from other computer based music programs in that it can be controlled very simply – for example with a single switch – but still produce complex and sophisticated results.

Playback and performance are highly controllable and enable performance in a group.

It incorporates speech output to enable use by people with visual impairment.

Adele Drake Home

As Head of Business Studies, Deptford Green School 1976-84) I became aware of the advantages of computer technology as an aid to education - saving what has been achieved, and editing it to a higher standard. 

At the time there was innovative work being carried out for children who could not move (or even play with toys), so that, for example, they could 'instruct' a computer to draw a square which could then be drawn out physically by a geometric toy on the ground. 

What was special about my approach?

My aim was to provide appropriate, unique tools for musicians with physical limitations. I approached this in two ways:

• Seeking to develop new software tools; and
• Combining different types of existing software and hardware to make unique music production setups for individuals.

I carried out research to discover more about what different universities and companies were doing (or rather not doing), from MIT in Boston to IBM in Oslo, and in England from Surrey University to the University of London, with particular assistance and encouragement over a number of years from the University of York.

I launched the project using very early home computers, and set about getting some new software to use.

What kinds of music technology are used?

The equipment is computer based, and typically uses MIDI (Music Instrument Digital Interface) to convert music notation or physical performance into computer data.

Crucial to people with disabilities are 'controllers' – the devices which are used to input music and other data, and to control playback and performance.

These may be standard devices such as the mouse, keyboard and tracker-balls, or special adaptive devices - alternative controllers include simple, single action switches, tilt switches, pressure pads, proximity sensors and motion sensors.

Any movement or pressure exerted, however slight, can then used as a trigger to play a sound, note or sequence, or to modify a continuing part.

Sometimes a simple solution like a keyguard (to lessen the chances of accidental keystrokes), or an extra-large qwerty keyboard prove effective. More sophisticated possibilities are touch-screen systems and voice navigation systems.

For detailed information, visit the Drake Music Project and the Drake Music Scotland websites.