Music with autistic children

Hi,

Thank so much for your detailed advise and encouragement it sounds great. Coincidently my daughter has been asking to learn keyboard so I booking her into lessons!

I found your advise very inspiring, supportive and very motivating, thanks for the links I have been viewing them.

I keep you updated of her progress.

Hi! I work in music and sound. I had a quick look and (if I saw correctly) her mannerisms reminded me of a conductor. Maybe have a look at Alondra de la Parra www.youtube.com/.../UCA8DN1IvowozAae2ol_T9HA

I'd recommend Piano and also drum lessons as she is interactive with the music - more so than just a performer. Certain personalities work incredibly well for fronting a band - usually an extrovert who knows how to 'work' a crowd. I see her working the music. She might be capable of producing or directing a band, conducting or she might enjoy just learning to play everything and get lost in the art of crafting. The Piano and the Guitar are good instruments to start from. Vocal lessons are better suited when she's in her teens, but someone with opera technique who can teach her how to internally sense/feel and use various muscles to produce a tone might prove the most helpful. Instructors are all different. Some might not know the mechanics, but from my experience (being autistic), I found it easier when tutors could help me understand very fundamental principles rather than ask me to produce a happy or sad tone. 

Sheila E was a drummer. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k9UxkiKaHxo she could be be good to watch.  

If she finds an instrument she resonates with and is eventually able to practice uninterrupted for hours on end, then she's on the right path! Sometimes getting into practicing with children can be difficult, but I always suggest just play 10 minutes of scales 5 days a week. If you go longer great! And if she's still playing after 2 hours, tip toe in with water and a sandwich and back out! :) 

Thank you for this tip quite coincident my daughter has shown interest in piano. I will but her into lessons

Thank you, Eunice.

But haven't really come across information for theatres or music establishments who take up autistic children with singing or performance skills. Some of her works are on Youtube  "Autistic but talented - Anu"

That's so nice to know, great job! You can see Anu on Youtube Autistic but talented - Anu

I loved music as a child.  Piano became a reliable friend.   I am now in a full time job as a musician.  My hobby is also how I earn a living.  I was diagnosed a few years ago and was told my unusual focus was good in music as it meant I could use the developed results

Hi Anusinger,

Warmest welcome to our community! And thank you for your enquiry.

You may like to search the keyword 'music' at our directory for options, https://www.autism.org.uk/directory 

Hope this helps.

Kind regards,

Eunice Mod

Thanks you

O that's great thanks for your response any tips you can give Anu?

It's good to combine singing with learning an instrument.

I love musicals and I run my own youth theatre group.

I am a primary school music teacher. 

O thank you! so nice to hear from you. you can view her on YouTube "Autistic but talented" - Anu. I am now trying to find her establishment that she could work and perform on stage. thanks for your response!

I have been a performer for years! I've danced for 14 years and went to college for performing arts! It was absolutely my passion for years. So happy to hear other autistic girls love this too. I hope she goes far!