A 16-year-old boy with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) captivated the audience at a music recital held at Enabling Village. The event, which concluded with enthusiastic cheers, saw the young performer kickstart the recital with a melodic piano performance and spontaneous showmanship. He even shared an impromptu handshake with Guest-of-Honour Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Culture, Community and Youth and Social and Family Development Eric Chua, eliciting laughter from the crowd. Despite his spontaneous gestures, the boy was met with patience and guidance from his father and teachers. This young musician is thriving at The Radiant Spectrum (TRS), a music school dedicated to teaching children with special needs.
Background
Aedan, diagnosed with ASD, has always had a passion for music. However, finding a school that could accommodate his needs was challenging until he discovered TRS in 2021. TRS is the first and only music education centre in Singapore specialising in teaching students with various diagnoses, including non-verbal, selectively mute, ADHD, and those on the autism spectrum. The school empowers students to reach their full potential through an individualised curriculum and dedicated support from teachers trained in special education.
A school that caters to those with special needs
Aedan’s father, Mike, shared that Aedan’s musical journey took a positive turn when they found TRS. The school’s founder and principal, Samantha, instantly connected with Aedan. “When Ms. Sam and him first met, it was like they clicked instantly,” Mike said. Aedan expressed his admiration for Samantha by drawing a mascot named Samantha the Songbird for the annual recital, a significant gesture for someone who usually only draws Disney characters.
How lessons are conducted
Samantha tailors Aedan’s lessons to fit his needs. “If Aedan is not feeling okay, Sam will not force him to do anything. But there is also a structure that helps him focus on what he needs to accomplish,” Mike explained. The focus is on allowing Aedan to enjoy and express himself through music rather than passing piano exams. Teacher support is crucial, a sentiment echoed by another parent, Xing Ping, whose son Jake also attends TRS.
Patient teachers
Jake, nine, has been fascinated by sound-producing toys since he was young. His mother, Xing Ping, decided to explore his musical talent after hearing him play “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star” by memory on a xylophone. Jake loved playing the piano from his first lesson at TRS and quickly picked up the lessons tailored to his unique needs. Despite being non-verbal and struggling with writing, Jake can now play with both hands and read music scores. He even performed the national anthem “Majulah Singapura” at this year’s recital. “But Teacher Samantha is very gentle and patient,” Xing Ping said, noting that Samantha adapts the lessons to Jake’s mood and needs.
Inclusive hiring
For some, learning music is not just a hobby but a potential career path. Sabi, 26, has always aspired to be a teacher but faced challenges due to her ASD. After several opportunities didn’t work out, her mother, Komathi, reached out to TRS about inclusive hiring. Samantha was immediately open and inclusive, offering Sabi a traineeship. Sabi started with administrative tasks and gradually took on more responsibilities, eventually teaching two students of her own. “I think that was a very important milestone in her teaching journey,” Komathi said.
A place for everyone to shine
All three parents hope the public becomes more open-minded about children with ASD. They wish to challenge the perception that individuals with autism are limited to specific roles and behaviours. “Take some time to learn about the kids, and you will be very surprised by what they can do,” Xing Ping said. At TRS, Samantha aims to create a space where every child with special needs can learn music, pursue their interests, and perform on stage. The annual recital allows each child to showcase their abilities to the world, especially to their families, resulting in endless smiles and cheers from performers, proud families, and teachers. Hip hip hooray indeed.
