Autism in Childhood and the Incredible Power of Music

Two talks about the incredible impact music can have on children with autism. First, Caitlin Shaughnessy from the University of Roehampton shows some of her remarkable research into the importance of music and musical development in autistic children. Then, conductor John Lubbock talks about his experiences taking members of his orchestra into special schools and interacting musically with severely autistic pupils.

Back on November 7th last year, pianist Derek Paravicini, who is blind, autistic and has learning difficulties, performed at a fascinating all day event called 'Music in Mind' which explored the impact of music as it relates to autism, deafness and visual impairment; especially in relation to childhood development. The event was curated by Derek's mentor, Dr Adam Ockelford, as part of the Wimbledon Music Festival and it was a truly special day with many wonderful insights into how music has an extraordinary power to reach people who may find normal interactions more difficult.

Derek and Adam also spoke about Derek's history and how he came to be the pianist that he is today, complete with many great performances by Derek on piano and we will be posting their talk up soon.

👨🎹ABOUT DEREK:
#derekparavicini is a musical savant. His extraordinary talent developed alongside blindness, severe autism and learning difficulties. With the gift of perfect pitch, a photographic musical memory, the ability to transpose anything instantly to any key, and his incredible abilities to learn by ear and improvise, Derek loves connecting with people via his music and absolutely loves taking requests for songs, styles and keys!

🎵MORE DEREK🎵

#autism #autistic #autismawareness #childhood #education #music