In this paper we report on our experiences using ubiquitous computing devices to introduce music-based creative activities into an Australian school. The use of music applications on mobile tablet computers (iPads) made these activities accessible to students with a limited range of prior musical background and in a general purpose classroom setting. The activities were designed to be meaningful and contribute toward personal resilience in the students. Two theoretical frameworks inform the research design; the meaningful engagement matrix and personal resilience. We describe these frameworks and how they inform the activity planning. We report on the activities undertaken to date and share preliminary results from questionnaires, interviews, musical outcomes, and observation.