Each year, the Sensory Friendly Concert series, titled “Symphonic Storytime” is presented by the WP Chamber Wind Ensemble. The concerts feature music pertaining to a story or work of literature. Past performances have included Dan Brown’s Wild Symphony, Prokofiev’s Peter and the Wolf and Scott Watson’s Aesop’s Fables. In March of 2026, the concert will feature the soundtrack and animation to the well-loved children’s book, “We’re Going on a Bear Hunt” composed by UK composer Stuart Hancock. The goal of “Symphonic Storytime” is to introduce young audiences to the wonders of the concert band and large-ensemble music-making while providing a safe space for those with sensory needs to experience live Classical music performances. Our Sensory Friendly school-day and community performances are designed to be a welcoming, inclusive and comfortable musical experience for those on the autism spectrum or with other sensory or cognitive needs, though they are well-suited to audiences of all ages and abilities. Accommodations include low to medium volume and lighting ranges, areas for students to move or walk around with a chaperone’s supervision, provision of ear plugs, and an adjoining sensory-friendly space for those who need a break from the concert environment (outfitted with sensory manipulatives and carpeting). To learn more about upcoming Sensory Friendly concerts presented by the WP Chamber Winds, please visit www.wpband.org or email Purcellgilest@wpunj.edu
