There’s something magical about bluegrass music — the steady rhythms, intricate patterns, and heartfelt melodies. For Hollywood composer John Frizzell, who was diagnosed with autism as an adult, this genre wasn’t just music — it became a calling.

At bluegrass festivals, Frizzell noticed something familiar: many attendees were autistic. That’s when the idea struck: Could bluegrass be a way for autistic individuals to connect? Thus was born Spectrum Bluegrass, a music project creating inclusive jam sessions for neurodiverse musicians.

Co-founded with Steve Sidney — whose son Joel, diagnosed with ASD, has bluegrass as a lifelong passion — Spectrum Bluegrass has already brought dozens of musicians together in uplifting gatherings. One highlight was their performance at LA’s Greek Theatre during an Autism Speaks fundraising concert, where Joel confidently played guitar on stage.

Why bluegrass?

• Pattern-rich music engages hyperfocused interests common among autistic people.

• Group music making offers a shared purpose that can be profoundly empowering — especially for those who’ve faced social exclusion.

• Sensory grounding in rhythm and melody can foster calm, focus, and connection.

As pediatric psychologist Dr. Elizabeth Laugeson explains, music is a powerful form of communication — especially for individuals who find verbal interactions challenging. Group performance, she notes, can leave lasting emotional benefits.

Spectrum Bluegrass is just getting going — but Frizzell’s vision is clear: in a decade, he hopes thousands of autistic musicians have found joy, community, and expression in bluegrass. Their next gathering is slated for this fall at the South State 48 Music Festival in Carlsbad, California.

This post is based upon a story originating on “All Things Considered” on NPR.