Rosie Offers Local Kids An AU:SUM Chance To Rock

by Jenna Smith on March 26, 2012

Newcastle’s local music school, Rosie’s School of Rock is quickly earning the title of being life changing for its students. Under the guidance of ex-Screaming Jets member, Craig ‘Rosie’ Rosevear, this four year old Performance Music School has opened a music program specifically for children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Deemed AU:SUM (AU being borrowed from Autism and SUM being the combination of two or more elements), this one-of-a-kind program aims to improve and advance social development, communication and self esteem of children aged 7-18 that have been diagnosed with ASD, through the use of music.

There is much research which suggests the benefits of Music Therapy for individuals with ASD to address the communicative, social skills and social interaction that generally lacks from individual therapy. The introduction of the AU:SUM program allows for a combination of individual and interactive group learning, with the music and its elements enabling communication and expression, thus attempting to address some of the core problems of kids living with ASD.

Developed in conjunction with ASPECT Australia, this 10 week program has the underlying philosophy, “We Teach Music - You Learn Life”, and features visual approaches such as numbers and colours to teach music skills. Children enrolled in the program will gain confidence as they advance through and write, perform or record their very own song. The success of the program so far amongst children diagnosed with ASD, has resulted in a greater enrolment at the School and it has been envisaged that the program will serve as the model for Musical Social Connection throughout Australia.

Craig ‘Rosie’ Rosevear, the founder of Rosie’s School of Rock, has a long history within the music industry and can really appreciate the value of music in teaching vital life and social skills, especially amongst kids diagnosed with ASD.

“Music for me has been a great way to make heaps of friends and give me a life full of confidence. AU:SUM is a way we can bring this same experience to others. We use Music as a tool to increase Social Skills, Confidence and Self Esteem,” said Rosevear.

The development of artistic and social benefits at a young age may serve as a legitimate career pathway for those with ASD into the entertainment industry - it is always important for anyone to remember that anything can be achieved if you try hard enough.

This program runs at Rosie’s School of Rock, located at 2A Ravenshaw Street in Newcastle’s West. No experience is required for students wishing to join the AU:SUM program, and each session happens once a week for one hour.

For more information on the AU:SUM program and the other programs offered at Rosie’s School of Rock, visit their website or contact Rosie himself on 0425 342 182 or craig@rosiesschoolofrock.com.