*The upcoming Jazz Hands for Autism concert is more than a night of entertainment. It is also a celebration of inclusion, talent, and opportunity for neurodivergent musicians. This year’s event will honor Earth, Wind & Fire legend Philip Bailey.
The concert takes place on May 23 at Playa Studios in Culver City (California). Musicians in the program will perform songs from the Earth, Wind & Fire catalog in front of Bailey himself. Organizers say the event blends music, advocacy, and community support.
Founder Says Organization Started with One Simple Idea
Dr. Ifunanya Nweke founded Jazz Hands for Autism in 2014 after volunteering with autistic individuals and meeting a talented musician on the spectrum. She said she immediately noticed there were few spaces where autistic artists could showcase their gifts publicly.
“I met a really talented musician who was autistic, and I wondered, ‘Why is there no place where he can actively share his talents with his family and the community and be celebrated for his talents?’” Nweke said in a conversation with EURweb founder Lee Bailey.
What began as a simple concert platform has since evolved into a conservatory and career development program. Today, the organization provides music education, mentorship, and performance opportunities for neurodivergent musicians.
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Music Became the Bridge Between Passion and Purpose
Dr. Nweke said music has always played a major role in her own life. A singer-songwriter herself, she described music as the language she understands most fluently. That passion helped shape the direction of the nonprofit.
“I was really passionate about music and really passionate about autism, and I felt very intuitively that there was a bridge between those two things,” she explained.
Her research led her to discover the deep connection between music and brain development. She said music can help individuals on the autism spectrum strengthen communication, confidence, and emotional expression.
How Music Performance Builds Confidence and Skills
According to Nweke, learning music is only part of the journey. She believes performing in front of an audience creates even greater impact for autistic musicians and their families.
“When a person with autism performs music on stage, their peers, their families, and community members see so much capability in them,” she said. “That expands opportunities in their life.”
She explained that performing music demonstrates resilience, memory, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. The experience also changes how audiences view neurodivergent individuals and their potential.
Founder Shares Personal Connection to Autism Journey
Nweke also revealed that her younger brother’s autism diagnosis deeply shaped her understanding of the community. Although she spent years supporting and advocating for him, she did not realize he was autistic until adulthood.
“It wasn’t until 2021 that I discovered my brother was autistic and has ADHD because he told me,” she revealed. “Everything just made sense.”
She said her brother struggled socially and academically while growing up but excelled once he discovered robotics in high school. Looking back, she now recognizes many of the signs that were overlooked during their childhood.
Black Families and Autism Awareness Remain Important Topics
Nweke said awareness around autism has grown significantly over the last decade, especially within Black communities. However, she noted many families still do not openly discuss neurodivergence or diagnoses.
“Especially in many Black or African communities, autism or neurodivergence are not things that are discussed,” she said. “You just think, ‘This is my brother, and he has some challenges, but everyone has challenges.’”
She hopes increased awareness will help families recognize signs earlier and connect children with important resources. Early intervention, she said, can improve long-term quality of life and support systems.
Philip Bailey Tribute Concert Will Feature Special Guests
The May 23 concert marks the organization’s first event honoring a music legend. Students have spent the past six months preparing Earth, Wind & Fire classics for the special performance.
“Our musicians have put so much work in, and they sound fantastic,” Nweke said. “You don’t want to miss this.”
The evening will include a VIP reception and fireside chat with Bailey discussing his musical and philanthropic legacy. Organizers will also honor Emmy-winning producer Janet Grillo for her advocacy work connected to autism awareness.
Concert Aims to Create Access and Opportunity
Dr. Nweke said the event was designed to create connections between the entertainment industry and the neurodivergent community. Guests will include music executives, elected officials, artists, and supporters.
The event will also feature accessibility services, including American Sign Language interpretation. Nweke emphasized that inclusion remains central to everything the organization creates.
“The event is an inclusive event,” she said. “We’re bringing everybody together to celebrate autism awareness and acceptance.”
How to Attend the Jazz Hands for Autism Event
The concert takes place May 23 at Playa Studios in Culver City. Red carpet activities begin at 5 p.m., followed by performances and special presentations throughout the evening.
Tickets and additional information are available at jazzhandsforautism.org or directly through Eventbrite at jhcs25.eventbrite.com. Organizers encourage attendees to arrive early and experience what Nweke calls “the Jazz Hands Joy.”
For more on Dr. Ifunaye Nweke and Jazz Hands for Autism, click here and/or here.
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