Sensory-Friendly Spotlight: Relaxed Open Rehearsals

The Detroit Symphony Orchestra is an inclusive and culturally relevant community where all people can experience their world through music. Each season, the DSO holds Relaxed Open Rehearsals and sensory-friendly events for individuals who may not feel comfortable in a traditional concert environment. Special focus is given to audience members on the autism spectrum and those with other sensory sensitivities.

The culture of attending live performances can be unforgiving for those who are unable to conform to the standard concert etiquette of quietly sitting still for extended periods, including those who may express emotions such as joy or excitement through vocalization. The DSO’s Relaxed Open Rehearsals aim to remove barriers, enabling participants to be themselves and enjoy a musical experience in a safe and judgement-free environment.

Kiersten Alcorn, the DSO’s Community Engagement Manager, is passionate about the organization’s commitment to advancing accessibility measures. “This programming is so important because it embodies our mission of cultivating an inclusive community and musical experiences that are accessible to all,” said Alcorn. “Through this work, more people can enjoy the magic of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra in ways that empower our community and prioritize comfort and safety.”

On September 22, 2022, 50 attendees enjoyed a Relaxed Open Rehearsal as DSO musicians prepared for a weekend of DTE Community Concerts under the baton of DSO Assistant Conductor Na’Zir McFadden (Phillip & Lauren Fisher Community Ambassador). Attendees had access to resources to prepare for the event including a program guide, social story, and Spotify playlist to hear selections in advance. The DSO removed barriers to this event by hosting a limited number of audience members and providing other accommodations including noisereducing headphones and fidgets, a quiet area to take a break from the rehearsal if needed, and the opportunity to see and touch instruments beforehand.

The event was well received by those who attended, and filled a community need that is sometimes overlooked. “It is an environment where it feels safe to enjoy the music/experience in the way each of us enjoys it—some clapping, some singing, some helping the conductor, and some just listening in a way not usually available to us,” said one attendee.

The DSO looks forward to hosting more Relaxed Open Rehearsals in the future and continuing efforts to promote accessibility throughout The Max and community venues. Thanks to a donation from the Mid-Michigan Autism Association, the DSO now offers sensory toolkits (including noise-cancelling headphones and fidget toys) and a quiet room, available for patrons to use at every performance, beyond the dedicated sensory-friendly events. Visit the Accessibility tab at dso.org/yourexperience to learn more.