Teenagers with autism perform on the drums. [Photo/tidenews.com.cn]

Ahead of World Autism Awareness Day on April 2, a special concert called Hearing the Warmth of Sound was held at the Moganshan campus of the Zhejiang University School of Medicine's Children's Hospital.

The event was organized by the hospital, the Zhejiang Conservatory of Music and the Zhejiang Dalaba Special Children's Care Center. It aimed to foster understanding through music, bridging emotions and raising awareness for the autism community.

The event opened with a vibrant African drum performance of the musical piece Proud Youth by five autistic teenagers, which created a warm and uplifting atmosphere. The concert also featured interactive sessions where autistic kids engaged in multi-sensory music learning – using body movements to mimic drumbeats and storytelling through rhythm.

Fu Junfen, president of the hospital, emphasized that autism support required a holistic approach. It needed not only to focus on rehabilitation, but also to create an inclusive society where autistic individuals were heard, seen and supported.

Since launching the program in 2023, the Zhejiang Conservatory of Music has collaborated with the hospital to integrate music therapy into medical care, offering comfort and new rehabilitation pathways.

The event also marked the unveiling of a music therapy corner at Moganshan campus, as well as the launch of an original digital album project. Called Hearing the Warmth of Sound, it brings together musicians, scientists and medical experts to develop a specialized music prescription database for therapeutic use.

A teenager with autism sings with students from the Zhejiang Conservatory of Music. [Photo/tidenews.com.cn]