
About Me
Welcome to Spectrum Expression! I’m Adeline, a senior with a love for music. From the early days of playing the piano since second grade to learning the cello in fourth grade, music has always been an integral part of my life. However, it wasn’t until a transformative experience in elementary school that I truly appreciated its profound impact.
During one lunch break, a classmate of mine, who happened to be autistic, was overwhelmed and was having a difficult outburst. The lunch monitors were at a loss, unable to calm him down. That's when they approached me with a request - could I play something on the piano for him?
As I sat down at the piano and began to play, something extraordinary happened. Almost instantly, the tears streaming down his face ceased, and a newfound happiness enveloped him. He even started to hum along with the music, his anxiety and distress melting away. Witnessing this profound impact firsthand, I was struck by the incredible power that music holds - its ability to alleviate stress and anxiety, especially in individuals with autism.
However, it saddened me to realize that my school's special education program did not offer any musical workshops or lessons for children with autism. These students were deprived of the chance to explore and engage with music, missing out on the immense benefits it could provide. This realization fueled my determination to establish this organization. Spectrum Expression aims to raise awareness about the benefits of music for autistic individuals and provide them with comprehensive, tailored music programs.
Through this organization, I aim to create an inclusive and supportive environment where the autistic community can explore and engage with music. In collaborative group settings, individuals with autism will have the opportunity to engage with volunteers who will guide them in singing, playing instruments, reading music, and even exploring movement and dance. Join us as we unlock the immense potential of music, empowering autistic individuals with meaningful and enriching experiences.
“Everyone deserves music.”
— Michael Franti