At Spectrum Dreams, each concert is a gentle way to help children on the autism spectrum be seen, heard, and celebrated.

Sharing the stage with professional musicians is more than a performance—it’s a conversation of hearts. Through music, they find a voice, a connection, and a moment to shine in their own beautiful way.

At three, Bowen Duan had not yet spoken but showed extraordinary musical sensitivity. He began piano at six and graduated from Azusa Pacific University’s School of Music in 2023. Widely recognized for his talent and perseverance, he is known as the “Autistic Piano Prince.”

Bowen Duan brings extraordinary sensitivity and focus to Liszt’s La Campanella. His performance shines with a bright tone and precise rhythm, combining delicacy and elegance even in the most demanding passages. Through his sincere musical expression, he reveals a harmony between talent and soul—each note flowing with purity, warmth, and gentle strength.

“The Light You Are” is an original song composed by Junfeng Wang, dedicated to children with autism. It celebrates their inner light, courage, and unique way of connecting with the world. This piece is also a tribute to the families, teachers, and friends who accompany them with love and patience. My heartfelt thanks to Dr. Joel Clifft and Kevin Shi for their beautiful and heartfelt performance, which brought this music to life with warmth and sincerity.

Fourteen-year-old Leo Li, diagnosed with autism at an early age, continues to embrace life with a sincere smile and a kind heart. Since beginning piano at age five, music has become his language to communicate with the world and express his emotions.

With deep sensitivity and emotional depth, he performs Rachmaninoff’s Prelude in G Minor, a piece known for its dramatic power and intensity. Leo’s playing is steady yet passionate, rich in tone and nuance. Through his interpretation, the music reveals resilience, warmth, and honesty—illuminating the quiet strength within his heart.

Kevin Shi began studying piano at the age of three and quickly revealed remarkable musical talent, especially in improvisation and composition. As a child with autism, he expresses sincerity and purity through music, allowing his creativity and warmth to shine from within.

In Burgmüller’s The Merry Shepherd, Kevin performs with natural flow and lively rhythm. His bright tone and clear phrasing capture both innocence and freedom, reflecting a delicate sensitivity and the joyful spirit of creation that define his musical voice.

Diagnosed with autism in early childhood, Arden Yang possesses remarkable musical memory and talent. He plays piano, clarinet, and saxophone, and his pure singing has become a source of confidence and heartfelt expression.

In this performance, Arden sings the beloved Italian song “O Sole Mio,” accompanied on piano by fellow autistic musician Bowen Duan. Together, they create a touching dialogue of voice and piano—two young artists sharing warmth, courage, and the radiant beauty of music.

Autistic pianists Bowen Duan and Leo Li join together in a thrilling four-hand performance of Khachaturian’s “Sabre Dance.” Known for its rapid tempo and driving rhythm, this piece bursts with excitement and energy.

With dazzling precision and deep focus, the two young musicians perform in perfect harmony. Their playing sparkles with vitality and passion, capturing the spirit of collaboration and the pure joy of making music together.

Professors Joel Clifft, Alex Russell, and Marek Szpakiewicz perform “You Raise Me Up” with heartfelt warmth, offering their music as a gift of love and encouragement.

Beyond their excellence as musicians and educators, they stand as mentors and friends to children on the autism spectrum. Through this touching performance, they embody Spectrum Dreams’ belief that music can awaken hope, build connection, and remind every child that they are seen and valued.

“Ombra mai fu” (“Never was a shade”) is the opening aria from Handel’s opera Xerxes. With its calm and flowing melody, the piece expresses deep admiration for the beauty and peace of nature.

In this performance, tenor Li Zhentao and autistic pianist Bowen Duan bring a gentle and heartfelt interpretation of this timeless work. Li’s expressive voice and Bowen’s pure, sensitive touch create a moment of harmony and light—illuminating the quiet beauty and humanity at the heart of Handel’s music.

Pianists Junfeng Wang and Bowen Duan join together in a moving performance of the first movement from Mendelssohn’s Piano Concerto in G Minor. Brimming with youthful energy and lyrical brilliance, the music captures Mendelssohn’s signature blend of passion and grace.

With Wang’s rich, expressive tone and Duan’s pure, sensitive touch, the two pianists create a dialogue filled with balance and depth. Their interpretation brings both power and tenderness to life, allowing Mendelssohn’s radiant spirit to shine through every note.