Our Commitment to Accessibility
At Sonic Haven Studios, located in the vibrant heart of Nashville's Music Row, we firmly believe that music creation and appreciation should be accessible to everyone. We are dedicated to ensuring that our website and studio facilities are designed and maintained with accessibility in mind, adhering to best practices and standards defined by the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) and other relevant accessibility guidelines.
This accessibility statement outlines our ongoing efforts to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all artists, musicians, engineers, visitors, and employees. We recognize that accessibility is an ongoing journey, and we are continuously working to improve the accessibility of our website and physical spaces.
Accessibility Features of Our Website
We have implemented a variety of features to enhance the accessibility of our website, including:
- Semantic HTML: We use semantic HTML elements to structure our content in a meaningful way, making it easier for assistive technologies to understand and navigate. For example, we use proper heading levels (
<h1>, <h2>, etc.), lists (<ul>, <ol>), and landmarks (<nav>, <main>, <footer>).
- Alternative Text for Images: All images on our website include descriptive alternative text (alt text) that conveys the content and function of the image to users who cannot see them. This is crucial for screen reader users and those with visual impairments.
- Keyboard Navigation: Our website can be fully navigated using a keyboard, allowing users who cannot use a mouse to access all content and functionality. We have ensured that focus is clearly visible for each interactive element.
- Color Contrast: We have carefully selected color combinations that provide sufficient contrast between text and background, making it easier for users with low vision or color blindness to read and understand the content.
- Resizable Text: Users can easily increase or decrease the text size on our website without losing content or functionality. This can be done through browser settings or assistive technology.
- Clear and Consistent Navigation: Our website features a clear and consistent navigation structure, making it easy for users to find the information they need.
- Forms with Labels: All form fields have clear and descriptive labels that are properly associated with the input elements, making it easier for users to understand what information is required.
- Video Captions and Transcripts: All video content on our website includes captions and/or transcripts, making it accessible to users who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Accessibility Features of Our Physical Studio
We are committed to providing a physically accessible studio environment. Our accessibility features include:
- Ramps and Accessible Entrances: Our studio has ramps and accessible entrances to ensure that all areas are accessible to people using wheelchairs or other mobility devices. The main entrance is equipped with a gently sloped ramp that adheres to ADA standards.
- Accessible Restrooms: We have accessible restrooms that are equipped with grab bars and other features to meet the needs of people with disabilities.
- Assistive Listening Devices: We offer assistive listening devices for those who are hard of hearing to improve their experience during recording sessions, meetings, and workshops.
- Adjustable Height Workstations: We provide adjustable height workstations in our mixing and editing suites to accommodate users with varying needs and preferences.
- Designated Parking Spaces: We have designated accessible parking spaces near the entrance of our studio for easy access.
- Signage: We have clear and visible signage throughout the studio to assist with navigation.
- Large Print Materials: We can provide large print versions of important documents and materials upon request.
Assistive Technologies
Our website is designed to be compatible with a variety of assistive technologies, including:
- Screen Readers: We have tested our website with popular screen readers such as JAWS, NVDA, and VoiceOver.
- Screen Magnifiers: Our website is compatible with screen magnifiers, allowing users with low vision to zoom in on content without losing clarity.
- Voice Recognition Software: Our website can be navigated and interacted with using voice recognition software such as Dragon NaturallySpeaking.
Feedback and Contact Information
We welcome your feedback on the accessibility of our website and studio. If you encounter any accessibility barriers or have suggestions for improvement, please contact us:
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: (615) 555-2345
- Address: Sonic Haven Studios, Accessibility Department, 123 Music Row, Nashville, TN 37203
We will do our best to respond to your inquiries and address any concerns in a timely manner. Our Accessibility Officer, Brenda Lee Johnson, is dedicated to ensuring that all feedback is carefully reviewed and considered.
Ongoing Efforts
We are committed to continuously improving the accessibility of our website and studio. Our ongoing efforts include:
- Regularly auditing our website for accessibility compliance using automated tools and manual testing.
- Providing accessibility training to our staff.
- Incorporating accessibility considerations into our design and development processes.
- Staying up-to-date on the latest accessibility standards and guidelines.
We strive to maintain a website and physical space that meets or exceeds the requirements of WCAG 2.1 Level AA.
This Accessibility Statement was last updated on October 26, 2023.