Magnet Ensemble: Neurodiverse Musicians Rocking Stages

Meet the magnet ensemble, a crew of neurodiverse musicians straight out of Santa

and in California, smashing stereotypes on stage. Every member deals with ADHD,

dyslexia, or autism, like 20-year-old keyboardists, Roberto Reyes, and his

brother Jesus on timbales. They rock keys, congas, sacks, bass, and vocals, all

thanks to music therapy at the Orange County Children's Therapeutic Arts Center,

a non-profit, helping low income and special needs families. Five years back,

musical coordinator Phoebe Stancell pulled these talented students together to

form the band. What started his therapy sessions turned into real performances

across Orange County. Roberto first hit the center at one year old and picked up

piano S7, transforming his struggles into strengths. Growing up, Roberto faced

bullying for his behaviors and had trouble making friends or coordinating

physically. But music flipped the script, building his confidence in emotional growth.

The ensemble shows the world that giving neurodivergent folks a platform

lets their skills shine loud and clear. No stigma attached. Now they're gigging everywhere,

with some using earplugs for noise or skipping eye contact,

yet their sound hits hard. Roberto calls it his lifelong passion, saying without his diagnosis,

and this journey, he'd never have found his groove. This ensemble proves music therapy

ain't just help. It's a launch pad for real talent to thrive. That wraps California news today.

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