With the 2015-16 Sensory Friendly Concert series coming to a close, I wanted to take a moment to thank all of the incredible people behind the project.

An exciting journey began three years ago after a chance meeting with CJ Shiloh, director of The Musical Autist. Of her many endeavors as an advocate for the autistic community, Sensory Friendly Concerts (SFCs) are a shared passion. Her diligence and commitment to the work she does has been an incredible source of inspiration. It is thanks to her that we are able to facilitate Sensory Friendly Concerts and provide equal access to the fine arts and a platform for self-advocacy for autistic individuals. Because of her vision, Sensory Friendly Concerts are happening all over the world, including here in our home state of Minnesota.

Support has come from many organizations and communities through marketing, financial donations, volunteerism, and participation. A special thank you to some of these groups in particular – The Autism Society of Minnesota, The Steps of Hope grant, Toneworks Community Foundation, The Musicians of The Minnesota Orchestra, and The Music Therapy Association of Minnesota. With your contributions, the Sensory Friendly Concert series continues and grows every year.

In addition, I want to thank Kate Nettlemen from the MN Orchestra. She was instrumental – pun intended, in establishing our collaboration with The Musicians of the Minnesota Orchestra two years ago. MoMO has graciously provided musicians for the SFCs, including guest artists Pam Arnstein, Helen Chang Haertzen, The Peter Kogan Jazz Quartet, Michael Sutton, and Kristen Bruya.

This year, we were able to continue this partnership with the Minnesota Orchestra, thanks to Jessica Leibfried, Director of Education and Community Engagement. Thank you for your continued support and talents, enabling the SFCs to reach a new potential at Orchestra Hall. We are looking forward to many concerts to come and what the future offers!

A final thank you to the numerous musicians and performers who have participated in our concerts. You prove every day that musical talent does not discriminate.

Sincerely,                                                                                                                                                                                        Lyndie Walker