Autism, or autism spectrum disorder, refers to a range of conditions characterised by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviours, speech and nonverbal communication, as well as by unique strengths and differences.
Music and young people with autism
- Sensitivity As explained by the National Autistic Society some children and young people with autism may experience over or under sensitivity to sounds, touch, tastes, smells, light, colours, temperatures or pain. You may need to find out whether the children or young people you are working with are able to cope with being a room where lots of noise or music making is taking place, or whether specific instruments, volumes, or pitches affect them.
- Repetitive, obsessive, or highly focussed Some children and young people with autism may enjoy singing or playing their favourite tunes or songs over and over again, because certainty and rules are important, and change can be uncomfortable. Many young people with autism can become highly accomplished, including as musicians – this can be lifelong, or can change as they get older.
Benefits of music
- In this article, Chris Blake, co-founder of RiChmusic and Specialist Music Teacher for people with severe learning difficulties (SLD), discusses his personal experiences of music and the growing research base to suggest that music may have a fundamental connection for many autistic people.
- Music for Autism raises public awareness through autism-friendly, interactive concerts developed specifically for individuals with autism and their families. The subsidised concerts feature professional musicians, and allow children and young people with autism and their families to respond spontaneously to the music and interact with musicians.
- Associates – you can find a list of Associate provider with experience of working with children and young people with autism by selecting “Inclusive Music Aware” in the Associate Status filter in our directory here. (Associates: if you are not on this list and have experience please contact Ruth Jones to update your status!)
- If you are interested in a networking or CPD session with a focus on autism please get in touch cpd@wiltshiremusicconnect.org.uk
Other resources
