How to identify a Talented Musician in Children with Autism

Juang Seng CHUA

doi:10.64663/aet.57

Authors

Juang Seng CHUA Merlion Paediatric Therapy Clinic, Singapore https://orcid.org/0009-0004-0812-7249

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.64663/aet.57

Keywords:

Musical Traits, Musical systemizing ability

Abstract

Many parents whom I have met in my course of work often ask me this question: “Can my child with autism become a talented musician?” There is no direct answer to that question (also see Howlin et al., 2009). To the best of my knowledge, autistic musicians often possess unique and extraordinary talents, often excelling in areas such as perfect pitch, composing, or creating innovative musical styles (Pring, 2005). Just like the autistic savant artists (Camulli & Goh, 2018), autistic savant musicians also do possess extraordinary systemizing ability, but in the creative domain of music (Treffert, 2010). Their attention to detail and ability to focus intensely on their craft can result in exceptional music. One good example is Jacob Collier, who is a Grammy-winning multi-instrumentalist, composer, and arranger. is open about being autistic. Similarly, in another example, Tony DeBlois, a blind and autistic musician, plays over 20 instruments and has performed worldwide.

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