Full Spectrum: Exploring the Role of Music in the Autism Community Series

Hosted by the Mary Pappert School of Music and City Music Center of Duquesne University in partnership with Band Together Pittsburgh and Achieving True Self. Underwritten by the Pittsburgh Foundation.

This free event series will explore how music plays an important role in the autism community.

Session 1 “Exploring Sound and Rhythm” – Saturday, April 11, 2026 (11am-1pm)

This will feature an instrument petting zoo and lead participants in a community drum circle. Engage in call and response drumming and improvisation. Our current music students will lead sing-alongs, offer demonstrations on instruments, and play musical games.

Participants will also have the opportunity to sit in on a real recording session with a live band in a fully functional music production studio! Bring your instrument and jam with the band or take a turn behind the audio console during mixdown.

Session 2 “Full Spectrum Artist Showcase” – Saturday, April 18, 2026 (11am-2pm)

The final day of the series will conclude in two segments with Full Spectrum’s partners at Band Together Pittsburgh (BTP):

1. An open-mic event where anyone in attendance can participate in music making on stage.
2. A collaborative concert featuring BTP artists who are on the spectrum themselves alongside Mary Pappert School of Music students.

Stay for a reception following the concert to interact with members of sponsoring organizations, discover resources, and make new connections with fellow guests.

Register in advance to receive a free welcome bag at the event!

Attendees should park in the Forbes Ave. garage.

Full Spectrum is hosted by the Mary Pappert School of Music and City Music Center of Duquesne University in partnership with Band Together Pittsburgh and Achieving True Self and underwritten by the Pittsburgh Foundation.