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Stars of the Show

Thursday, October 30, 2008

The Emmy award-winning documentary "Austism: The Musical" follows a group of parents and autistic children who participate in a specially written musical production called the Miracle Project. Elaine Hall, an organizer of the event, joins us to talk about the Miracle Project and the documentary.

The Miracle Project online


Comments

  • [1] Jennifer H from Brooklyn October 30, 2008 - 02:12PM

    SO BEAUTIFUL - MAKES ME WANT TO WEEP


  • [2] thatgirlinnewyork October 30, 2008 - 02:13PM

    i have a nephew who had autism, but has since been mainstreamed via much therapy.

    from what we were told, music (and its associated metering) is much like the counting associated with autistic people--and it serves to "keep" the autistic in the bubble that keeps them from interacting fully with the non-autistic. given that so many autistic prefer to stay in a "comfort zone" of music or counting (including these "savants"), this is, in the opinion of many, counter-productive to bringing them out.

    yes, these children are often entertaining to us, but at what cost? they are merely imitating what they hear, no?


  • [3] Janet Sullivan from The Upper West Side October 30, 2008 - 02:23PM

    This is a meaningful and important program but I think it would be vital for you to mention the field of Music Therapy, where licensed and trained professionals work with a whole range of conditions, including autisim via music. I know that Dr. Sacks is quite knowledgable about this field. Please, do mention the field.

    Thanks, Janet Sullivan, music therapist


  • [4] Simeon Berman from West Orange, NJ October 30, 2008 - 02:26PM

    How do these methods described today differ from the Tomatis method, a technique to teach music appreciation and training advanced about 40 years ago, Dr. Alfred A. Tomatis, a French Ear, Nose and Throat specialist?


  • [5] Jessica Kesselman from Rockland County October 30, 2008 - 02:37PM

    During my 4 year old son's weekly music therapy sessions, he makes eye contact, takes turns, initiates play, laughs, sings, creates, and RELATES to others!!! Music therapy has increased my son's vocabulary, increased his imitation and initiation skills, and most importantly, has given us a way to share experiences with our son. Unfortunately, this therapy is not cheap, and is not covered by insurance. But it is an integral part to our son's development.


  • [6] manjing October 30, 2008 - 03:26PM

    I have 8 years old son with ASD, he started learning playing piano this June and loves listening music very much. I noticed taht he learned/played piano quiet special. I hope I can be provided to get usefull inforamtion to help/guild my son.


  • [7] carmen from Queens October 30, 2008 - 04:17PM

    beautiful guest and a beautiful show


  • [8] Richard Phoenix from Brighton, England, UK December 18, 2008 - 08:21AM

    I work with people with learning disabilities, ranging from severe physical and mental disabilities to people with mild autism and aspergers.

    I support and facilitate people to play in bands together, write songs, perform in front of people and generally do things that most musicians take for granted. Some of the changes in people that i have worked with have been incredible, a real confirmation that music can improve confidence, self worth and reach people that are often hard to reach.


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