Addressing auditory processing challenges and accessibility in live music settings

With the social media boom connecting people worldwide and easing the sharing of experiences, the everyday lives and struggles of people who are considered neurodivergent as well as those with invisible disabilities suddenly became widely known and the accessibility of even casual excursions such as grocery shopping and movie viewings came into question. As understanding of sensory processing disorders increases and disability advocacy moves to the forefront of conversations about public spaces, it’s not surprising that live music and the entertainment industry would become the next target of scrutiny. While the creation of sensory-friendly concerts is beneficial and highly valuable as a stepping stone to a greater and more widespread understanding of accessibility for those whose needs are often ignored by society, the limited scope and availability of these events largely excludes a multitude of music enthusiasts. This study aims to highlight the experiences and desires of concertgoers who have auditory sensitivities while also providing potential solutions to these barriers to entry. It is important to consider that this need for accessibility is not limited to individuals possessing neurodivergent identities, but is a universal issue to be considered.