Philadelphia Performances for Autism is a free, public concert series presenting classical chamber music in a fun, interactive way. Designed in a sensory-friendly and family-oriented manner, Philadelphia Performances for Autism was created to provide opportunities for families with children with autism to bond over the shared experience of the joy and magic of live music.

All of our public performances are FREE, open to all members of the public, and sensory-friendly. We offer a small library of noise-cancelling headphones, fidget toys, and other support for audience members on the spectrum to borrow throughout our events, but also recommend bringing your own supplies if you know what you need!

Come prepared to relax, and experience classical music in a uniquely supportive, engaging, and joyous environment. All behaviours are welcome.

Presented by cellist Arlen Hlusko, a graduate of the Curtis Institute of Music, Philadelphia Performances for Autism is designed to make the best in classical music, performed by world-class musicians, accessible to families of children on the autism spectrum. All concerts are free, and everyone is welcome—please join us!

Philadelphia Performances for Autism (PPfA) is an interactive, classical music-based concert series with a focused mission to provide free, high quality, sensory-friendly professional performances in traditional and alternative concert venues throughout the greater Philadelphia area. For every public performance offered, musicians also give free private community concerts—in local public and private schools, and other community spaces that support people with autism. This initiative’s goal is to enhance the quality of life for families with children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) through mutual experience and enjoyment of live arts and culture. All of our programs are specifically designed for individuals with autism and their families, but are open to all to enjoy. We offer an all-inclusive, supportive environment for families to experience the power and joy of music together, within and beyond the traditional concert hall.

Previous public performances have been offered at: Old Pine St Church, the Ethical Society of Philadelphia, the Curtis Institute of Music, the Free Library of Philadelphia, Independence Seaport Museum, Haddonfield First Presbyterian Church, Christ Church’s Neighborhood House, Variety Children’s Charity, the Dornsife Center, and more.

With thanks to the Curtis Institute of Music and Tarisio Trust for previous financial support, as well as CHOP: Center for Autism Research, AJ Drexel Autism Institute, Autism Cares Foundation, and Cooper University for helping us reach families who may benefit from these free concerts.

Click here to see our concert schedule. (Main-stage performances only; school performances are private and scheduled separately.)
Click here  for FAQ about attending a concert.

Please see our calendar for more details, and feel free to contact us with any questions!