MEET THE TEAM

Dr Denise White

(Artistic Director)

Dr Denise White FRSA is a multi-award-winning special needs and music educator. Known as The Music Doctor, Denise is the author of the book, The Music Improvisation Model for

Children (Bookhub Publishing, 2020). Having over 25 years’ experience in the field of early years, primary, post-primary, special educational needs, further and higher education, Denise is known for her innovative and creative teaching methods that transform lives. She is the founder of the scientifically proven music invention “Conductology.”

Shaun Healy

(Master Conductologist)

Alongside Dr Denise, Shaun is one of the architects and co-founders of the Conductology gesture system. He is a performer, composer and improviser who has performed with ensembles such as the Ulster Orchestra and the Benyonces Quartet, and in locations such as Ireland, the UK and Portugal. Shaun has led creative workshops in music improvisation in Ulster University,

presented to politicians and policy makers on the creative potential of those with disabilities, and composed and performed pieces for gamelan ensembles. He has collaborated with RIAM, DCU, UU and numerous ensembles. He is a music technology enthusiast who plays a range of music technology, piano, percussion and VR. Shaun has performed in several musicals and he was a key researcher in developing Conductology.

Rachel McGarrigle

(Tutor)

Rachel is one of our Conductology tutors. Since a young age, Rachel has always had a passion for music. She holds Grade 6 Piano and Grade 8 Singing. With her love of music, Rachel progressed on to university and now holds a Bachelor of Music degree and PGCE in Primary Education. Throughout these years, Rachel has worked alongside many children and adults with learning disabilities ranging from mild to complex and has used music as a tool to enhance communication and life skills. She loves how powerful music is and how it can transform all lives both inside and out. Her musical motto is 'Music is a universal language which can be accessed by anyone and everyone!'

Conor Doherty

(Chairperson)

Conor is a highly experienced creative. Having spent most of his life on the stage, Conor has also written a musical and starred in a feature film. Passionate about participation in the arts, Conor is a huge advocate for equality, accessibility and every individual having the opportunity to reach their full creative potential. Currently a successful entrepreneur, Conor continues to play a vast role in the lives of those with additional needs. 

Peter McCauley

(General Manager)

Peter holds a first-class honours degree in English Language and Literature from the Open University, and previously worked as 'Work Experience Programme Officer' for the business-education partnership charity School Employer Connections, assisting school students to find meaningful work experience placements. Peter is a self-employed proofreader/copywriter, and a creative writer with work published in an Ulster University anthology and shortlisted for an RTÉ writing prize.