Music with autistic children

Hi there, I Have just joined and it good to be part of this team. My daughter is autistic but her passion is in music. She loves singing and performing on stage. I was just wondering if anyone may have similar skills or passion for music. Or if anyone may know any programme within NAS (national Autistic Society) which encourages young singers/performers in line of music with special needs. Thank you

Parents
  • 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! :) 

Reply
  • 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! :) 

Children