Music Program
The Boston Conservatory Autism Project, developed by the Autism Higher Education Foundation (AHEF) in partnership with the prestigious Boston Conservatory, is a groundbreaking, first in the nation music program for young musicians with an ASD diagnosis.
The program’s objective is to develop musical talents and abilities such that the students may eventually have the musical skills to apply to a Conservatory or College Music Program at age 18.
Program Description
Up to 24 students between the ages of 8 and 22 have the opportunity to take individualized weekly music lessons at the Boston Conservatory in the following: voice, violin, viola, cello, piano, guitar, music theory, and music composition. Each student is paired with a Boston Conservatory Music Education graduate student for up to one hour lessons taking place on Saturdays. These music education graduate students have broad musical backgrounds and can support young students who wish to study classical music, popular music, folk music, and jazz.
Additionally a Music Program Consultation Team, including a Music Therapist, a Speech Pathologist, special educators, and professional musicians and/or music educators with a diagnosis on the Autism Spectrum, supports each student. The Consultation Team supports the student by troubleshooting issues that may arise in the learning process.
In addition, generalization of the music lession to the home environment is supported on a weekly basis through a one hour mid-week generalization conference between the student (and/or parent) and the instructor via teleconferencing, computer based video conferencing or e-mail. An end of the year recital opportunity is also included in each student's program as appropriate.
Program Dates (see below) and Cost: $1,125 per semester
Lessons are up to one hour in duration on Saturdays.
Fall 2009 Semester Lessons:
10/3, 10/10, 10/17, 10/24, 10/31, 11/7, 11/14, 11/21, 12/5
Makeup day: 12/12
Meet and greet: 9/26
Spring 2010 Semester Lessons:
2/6, 2/13, 2/27, 3/6, 3/27, 4/3, 4/10, 4/17, 5/1
Makeup days: 3/13 & 3/20
Recital Date: TBA
We are currently accepting applications for 24 spots in the upcoming Fall 2009 semester. Spots will be filled on a first come-first serve basis. For application materials, you may send inquiries through our contact page.
Student Requirements
- Student must have a documented ASD diagnosis.
- Student must have a basic proficiency in the instrument of study (i.e. can play without hand over hand instruction).
- Parent/caregiver must be on premises while lesson is in session.
- Prospective students (and caregivers) will be interviewed by the Autism Higher Education Foundation to determine eligibility for the program.
For inquiries please go to our contact page.
