May Impact Story 2024

Sensory-Friendly Music Fair

The Sensory-Friendly Music Fair, which took place on April 13, was a collaboration between Rising Above Ministries and the School of Music at Tennessee Tech University. This day of music and fellowship was presented to offer an inclusive, safe, and fun atmosphere where participants were guided through music stations and activities that allowed them to experience music in their own way: they could sing, clap, dance, play instruments, and enjoy performances by musicians from the School of Music. The day culminated with a special concert by the Tennessee Tech University Orchestra under the direction of Professor of Music, Dan Allcott and with special guest Cecilia Wright. Ms. Wright is a Board-Certified Music Therapist, song-writer, and performer, recently featured in Knoxville’s “40 Under 40”.

In addition to Rising Above Ministries, Prof. Allcott, and Ms. Wright, the School of Music’s Dr. Kexin Xu helped organize events with the collegiate chapter of National Association for Music Educators, and other volunteers. “All families should be able to enjoy music” says Allcott. “This [was] a time for everyone to enjoy music activities and a concert in a way that makes them most comfortable."

"I am the father of music-loving young man with autism. Nothing gives Carter more joy than live music but his reactions to it can be unpredictable for those around him. I love the fact that this day is especially for families like ours -  who love music and want to experience it together." -- Dan Allcott

Rising Above Ministries' mission is to provide hope and encouragement to special-needs families both locally and around-the-world, and offering events for families with special needs is moving that mission forward in amazing ways!