Estimated reading time 2 minutes
Table of Contents
Introduction
Do you want your autistic child to play piano? Or are you an adult with autism who’s wondering if piano would be a good fit? Playing piano brings a lot of benefits beyond just the fun of playing music. Read more to find out the answer to the question, “Is playing the piano a suitable activity for autistic people?”
This post contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission from purchases made through the links. I’ll only recommend products I use, use in lessons, or ones my students or colleagues have recommended.
Playing the Piano is a Suitable Activity for Autistic People #1: The Spectrum
“Is playing the piano a suitable activity for autistic people?”
Piano will be a good fit for most people on the autism spectrum.
- People on the spectrum have a range of strengths and struggles.
- Music teachers need to assess students to figure out which teaching methods will work best.
Every person with autism is different.
- Some people communicate well and learn music well (or may even be musically gifted) but still can have problems with social situations.
- Other people on the spectrum can have extreme communication problems and will need a lot of support to learn effectively.
- Color coding has been scientifically proven to help students who struggle with reading music.
With appropriate multisensory strategies, many people with classic autism can learn piano.
Playing the Piano is a Suitable Activity for Autistic People #2: Expressing Your Emotions
“Is playing the piano a suitable activity for autistic people?”
Yes, and music can be a great release after a stressful day.
- Social situations can be tough if you’re on the spectrum.
- Sadly, social interactions permeate almost everything we do in life.
- Regardless of whether you have autism or not, playing piano provides you with a great way to express your feelings.
Playing the Piano is a Suitable Activity for Autistic People #3: Makes You Feel Good
“Is playing the piano a suitable activity for autistic people?”
It can sometimes be really difficult being a person with autism having to operate within a neurotypical world.
- Piano can help.
- When social interactions go wrong, or things go haywire at work or school, it can do real damage to your self-esteem.
- The sense of accomplishment from acquiring skill on piano feels good and builds confidence.
Having said that, if you have troubles with learning, the links above can help.
If you want to play piano, these are the piano books I use when I teach lessons.
Ages 4-6
Ages 5-7
Ages 8-10
Ages 10-12
Teens and Adults
Playing the Piano is a Suitable Activity for Autistic People #4: Making Friends
“Is playing the piano a suitable activity for autistic people?”
Whether you play in a rock band, jazz band, or some other ensemble, group music activities can be a good way to make friends.
- Music helps people bond, creating connections while breaking down social barriers.
- Besides joining bands and ensembles, you can play piano in group lessons or in music therapy sessions.
In addition, becoming part of an ensemble will develop a sense of teamwork and belonging.
Conclusion
“Is playing the piano a suitable activity for autistic people?”
Yup, ‘nuf said.
© 2023 Geoffrey Keith
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