DePaul Concert Orchestra & Music Education Program Present a Sensory-Friendly Family Concert

The DePaul Concert Orchestra is partnering with the School of Music's Music Education program to offer a sensory-friendly children’s concert. The goal of this concert is to give children and families a live orchestral music education experience in a relaxed setting that welcomes all audiences, including people who are neurodivergent, autistic, or have sensory sensitivities. Guests are welcome to bring headphones, fidget tools, or other sensory supports. The hour before the concert we will offer an instrument petting zoo and games for kids of all ages in the building lobby.

Our sensory friendly adaptations will include having dimmed house lights that remain on during the concert, hosts who will guide the audience through the concert, flexible seating, open entry and exit to the hall during the performance, and a designated quiet area for anyone who needs to regroup. We will also offer a digital “pre-concert social story” that will be accessible ahead of time to walk people through the experience so that they know what to expect from start to finish.