Band Together Pittsburgh's open mic events offer a 'safe, supported, fun and cool environment' for those on autism spectrum

A big smile emerged on Madeline Segal's face as she finished her vocal performance of "A Thousand Years."

"Thank you," she said as other participants at an autism-friendly open mic event in Irwin applauded.

Segal, 19, of Murrysville, has become a regular at such events held by Band Together Pittsburgh, a nonprofit organization that provides music-related programming and opportunities for people on the autism spectrum. The welcoming, supportive atmosphere helps with nerves, she said before hitting the stage.

"So even if you mess up, they understand and they still support you anyway," she said. "It also gives me an event to look forward to."

Band Together Pittsburgh holds a few open mic events in Westmoreland County every year, but Lisa Hnath is hoping to expand those offerings by partnering with local organizations and school districts. The organization has regular open mic events in Allegheny County. Hnath, who does event planning and fundraising for Band Together Pittsburgh, and other parents said the autism-friendly events have helped their child gain confidence.

Sunday's event was held at Achieving True Self in Irwin which provides care and services to people of all ages on the autism spectrum and their families.

Christopher Brozek of North Huntingdon had the audience clapping and dancing in their seats while drumming to "Jumpin' Jack Flash." Brozek, 32, has trouble communicating verbally, said his mother Lisa Brozek, but he has no problems with a set of drumsticks in his hands.

"He's phenomenal with music," she said. "That's his way of communicating."

She's seen him blossom after getting his first drumset 20 years ago and participating in Norwin's marching band. The judgement-free open mic events are welcoming to anyone on the autism spectrum, regardless of ability, Brozek said.

"It just gives them some confidence to get them up there to play in front of people," she said.

Hnath introduced each performer, some of whom had a couple songs ready to go.

"This has become ... a community of like-minded individuals ... where it's a safe, supported, fun and cool environment," she said.

Patrick Kletzing, 21, of Upper Tyrone, had two songs prepared on guitar.

"It gives me a chance to just express myself," he said.

He's always been interested in music in various forms and getting involved with Band Together Pittsburgh has offered him a lot of new opportunities to perform, said his mother Jill Kletzing.

"It's one of those things that feels easier for him when a lot of things feel harder for him," she said.

The crowd at open mic events have become a support group for her as she navigates a new world — Patrick Kletzing was diagnosed as being on the autism spectrum a few years ago.

It's been a blessing for Marilee Segal, too. Her daughter can have social difficulties with her peers, but all of that is erased when she's on stage.

"It's so great because she can be who she is," Segal said.