Erin Parkes, Ph.D.

Erin has studied and researched for many years about music and teaching. She received her Bachelor of Music, Master of Arts in Musicology, and Graduate Certificate in Piano Pedagogy Research from the University of Ottawa. She also has a Ph.D. in music education from McGill University. Her Ph.D. research was on how to help music teachers teach students with autism.

In 2012, Erin started the Lotus Centre for Special Music Education. This is a charity that works to make sure that everyone can learn about music, including people who have autism, developmental disabilities, or are sensitive to light, noise, or crowds.

In addition to directing the work of the Lotus Centre, Erin is also a part-time professor at the University of Ottawa. She teaches classes and helps students learn about special music education. Erin regularly attends music education conferences and gives presentations throughout North America to share her knowledge about making music education accessible to everyone.