[MusicTlk] Several Updates from Sound Without Sight

[Ella Yu]

Hey everyone,
In the last few days, Sound Without Sight has introduced a few new things
that may be of interest to you. Have a look.

1. Introducing our community-led user testing initiatives: help drive
accessibility innovation in
<https://soundwithoutsight.org/introducing-our-community-led-user-testing-initiatives-help-drive-accessibility-innovation-in-music-and-audio/>
"At Sound Without Sight, we firmly believe that the most effective
accessibility solutions are co-created with blind and partially sighted
people, not simply for them. That’s why we’re excited to be launching a new
community-led user testing initiative, designed to connect blind and
partially sighted people with developers, arts organisations and technology
companies seeking authentic accessibility feedback.
The pilot programme, which will begin to roll out this month, aims to
bridge the gap between product creators and people with relevant lived
experience, helping to build more inclusive products, services and cultural
experiences.
Thank you to all community members, audio developers, and arts
organisations who shared thoughts through our ‘Access Through
Collaboration’ research over the last few months. The insights reflect a
growing need for meaningful engagement between the blind and partially
sighted community and those developing products, services and experiences."
To get involved you can join the open user testing group, see the above
link for details.

2. Cast your vote: webinar topics for our next season
<https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/cast-your-vote-webinar-topics-for-our-next-season/>
Sound Without Sight is giving the community the opportunity to vote on what
topics you'd like to see addressed in its future webinar/meetup series. If
you want to vote, complete the form by Monday July 6.

3. Introducing our new Drop-in Sessions
<https://soundwithoutsight.org/news/introducing-our-new-drop-in-sessions/>
"Sometimes the most valuable conversations happen when there isn’t an
agenda. Thanks to support from the Elizabeth Eagle-Bott Memorial Fund,
starting in July 2026, we will be hosting a 9-month pilot of open Drop-in
Sessions.
Following community demand, these sessions are informal gatherings for
blind and partially sighted musicians, audio producers, sound engineers,
educators and anyone with an interest in music and sound. They provide a
welcoming space to connect with others, share experiences, ask questions,
exchange ideas and build relationships within the community.
Whether you’re looking for advice, inspiration, collaboration
opportunities, or simply a friendly conversation with people who understand
your experiences, you’re welcome to join us – first Tuesday of each month
at 7.30pm UK time!"

Hope this finds you well.