Autistic children to stage concert

By PANG HIN YUE

An ensemble of children with autism will make its debut at a fund-raising concert in December, thanks to the commitment of two psychologists and the generosity of a music teacher. 

WITH some corrugated paper boxes, tambourines and drumsticks, Takeo Miyoshi got a group of children to beat according to the tune of Chan Mali Chan as his wife, Naoko Miyoshi, played the keyboard. 

Although they were not exactly in sync, Takeo continued enthusiastically to get the children numbering 20, with ages ranging from six to 14, to play. As trained clinical psychologists, each with more than 20 years of teaching experience in Japan, the Miyoshis were just glad to get the children engaged even though at times, they missed the beat.  

Takeo, a percussionist and Naoko, a double bass player, believe that children, regardless of their degree of disability, should be given a chance to learn in various media, including music.