Harmony in Sensation: A Sensory-Friendly Concert
The Gulf Coast Symphony fellows will present their first sensory-friendly concert for audience members with autism and related disabilities.
The reality is that the traditional concert-going experience is inaccessible to many in our community. To improve the current culture of classical music, the Gulf Coast Symphony welcomes people with sensory disabilities and their friends and family to an innovative and friendly concert experience.
Guests can expect:
- A welcoming environment, modified to accommodate attendees. Everyone is encouraged to experience music in the way they find most comfortable
- Reduced stimuli in the form of dimmed lights and muted sounds
- Flexible seating, entry, and exit
- Headphones for individuals who are sound-sensitive (bringing your own is encouraged)
- Fidgets, and a quiet/cool-down space available
- Scarves, feather boas, and sensory/fidget toys
Sensory Friendly FAQs
What kind of music will we hear?
Most symphony concerts feature a specific era/style of music or major multi-movement such as a symphony or concerto. This performance is designed around our audience. Each member of our fellowship program has selected a work they hope you will enjoy!
Do I need to have autism or a related disability to attend?
No! This program intends to accommodate individuals with disabilities and their families, but the broader community may attend. We only ask that all attendees be respectful of all audience members. Some will have needs you may not anticipate, and that may make you uncomfortable. However, it is our responsibility as a venue to accommodate everyone so we all can enjoy the experience.