Abstract

The author was immensely moved by the opening ceremony at Vienna. The Opening Ceremony of the International Confederation of Midwives Congress in Vienna was one of the most amazing and awe-striking occasions. We were introduced to the 'No Problem Orchestra'. The young musicians played with vitality, enthusiasm and intense concentration. Their excitement and enjoyment of playing such rhythmic foot tapping sounds was spellbinding. It had the enraptured audience clapping and dancing in the aisles. What was different about this orchestra? Many of the musicians appeared to have Down's syndrome. It was especially poignant to present this orchestra to an audience of midwives. How much preparation do midwives receive to enable them to inform women about Down's screening? If it is not enough, how can we address this? [From the Introduction, see more on the article]