Sensory-Accessible Concerts
Sensory-Accessible Concerts is a free, monthly series offering a safe, inclusive, and welcoming space for everyone to enjoy chamber music. Designed with consideration for autistic, neurodivergent, and intellectually disabled community members and their families, as well as seniors experiencing age-related hearing and vision changes, the series welcomes anyone who may find traditional concert environments challenging—yet all are invited to attend!
Hosted by pianist Jennifer King and Certified Music Therapist Anna Plaskett, and co-presented with Halifax Public Libraries, these concerts run from fall to spring at the Halifax Central Library. Each program is thoughtfully curated and features low lighting, noise-reduction headphones, open spaces to move and dance, a quiet room, and a relaxed atmosphere where attendees are free to move and vocalize. Trained music therapists and dance artists from Phin Performing Arts are on hand to assist, enabling family members to unwind and everyone to enjoy the music together.
“There is something so lovely about neurodivergent folks being welcome and included – it’s more than just saying it – it’s a whole vibe. Jennifer was an excellent host – we love that the pieces were explained and introduced in simple language... Bravo and thank you.”
“I was delighted to see so many seniors mixed with kids in the audience – there is something very special happening at these concerts.”
“What you’re accomplishing with these events is, in my view as the parent of an autistic daughter, unprecedented in the province. I hope you can continue with them well into the future.”
“Thank you for a delightful afternoon. Nice to see many of the formalities tumble down for the betterment of many.”
Upcoming Concerts
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Support This Fund
Every donation is an investment in strengthening our community. Your contribution to the Sensory-Accessible Concerts Fund is more than a donation, it helps create a more inclusive community where autistic, neurodivergent, and intellectually disabled community members can enjoy and benefit from phenomenal classical music performances. All donations will receive a tax-deductible charitable gift receipt.
Our Partners
We are grateful for the support of this program from the Canada Council for the Arts, the Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia, the Craig Foundation, the Cecilia Concerts Season Sponsor Jules Chamberlain/Red Door Realty, and our presenting partner the Halifax Central Library. We appreciate the gifts from the many individual donors who support this important initiative.