Get Your Free
Sensory Friendly Resources!

Plus join 1,100+ newsletter subscribers who learn about sensory overload and how to apply simple, sensory-friendly solutions.

We won't send you spam. Unsubscribe at any time.

Be Part of Our Sensory-Friendly Movement!

Join 1,100+ newsletter subscribers who learn about sensory overload and how to apply simple, sensory-friendly solutions.

We won't send you spam. Unsubscribe at any time.

Case Study: From Rockin’ to Relaxing: How Christina Martin Made Her Music Sensory-Friendly

Beyond the Stage Lights: Creating an Inclusive Music Experience

Canadian singer-songwriter Christina Martin is leading the charge in adopting inclusive, sensory-friendly performances, both at her in-person and online shows. In this blog post, she shares insights from her journey to making her music more accessible. Christina answers a series of questions about the challenges she faced, the steps she took toward inclusion, and the impact of her training and certification with Sensory Friendly Solutions.

What has made inclusion and becoming sensory-friendly important to you as a musician?

In Real Life:

The fact that some fans told me they could not get inside my event.  As a result, this made it important to learn more about accessibility, inclusion, and sensory-friendly events.

Moreover, at some of my shows, I feel there are still barriers for individuals. For example, we still perform at some concerts that have staircases.  In fact, some don’t have accessible toilets. My approach now is to talk to the venue about what their accessibility plan is for the future.  Furthermore, I also consider accessible venues when we return to a location or area in the future to perform at public events.

Sometimes there are no low-cost ways to make events sensory-friendly performances. For instance, I was performing at a venue in Amherst, Nova Scotia called Trider’s Craft Beer. Trider’s had a lip at the entrance of the venue which made it difficult for someone using mobility devices to access an event. However, Trider’s was extremely open to working with StopGap Foundation to bring a portable accessible ramp in time for our event.

Moreover, if my intention is to connect with more people with my music, it makes sense to try to make shows more inviting, welcoming, comfortable, and safe for all.  But, I’m still working on it.  I try to encourage my fans to reach out before the shows if they have any questions.  Finally, I think it’s important to let your audience know in advance what to expect.  This applies both to online and in-person events.  The details are important.  That way they can make up their mind if it’s a comfortable atmosphere for them to attend.

Online:

I have some fans who support me online.  But they live with intense anxiety and crowds don’t feel like a safe place for them. This made me see the importance of embracing the online community.

It made me start to do Facebook Live events and to create new online content for fans to enjoy from the comfort of their own homes.  I started that even before Coronavirus.

Arts and culture are at the forefront of creating sensory-friendly virtual events; even The Andy Warhol Museum has them!

Christina Martin, a leader in sensory-friendly performances, playing guitar and singing on stage.

As you learn about inclusion, becoming sensory-friendly in your shows, what has surprised you the most?

I was surprised at the number of great resources available to musicians online.

This was a great first step to learning more about hosting more inclusive events.  A resource I like is attitude is everything.

I continue to be pleasantly surprised at how open venues are to want to make positive changes to their events. Also, if you ask people for feedback on ways to improve events, they are very generous with suggestions. Most healthy humans and businesses want to grow and make public events more safe and successful.

What has been the easiest thing to do/action to become more inclusive as part of what you learned from Sensory Friendly Solutions’ training and certification?

Infographic with 3 tips to offer sensory-friendly performances.
  1. Asking fans for feedback is easy.  They will tell you what helps!
  2. Asking venues about their inclusivity and sensory-friendly strategy is easy.
  3. Posting more information about the kind of event you are hosting is easy.
    • Start time and end time.
    • Any sensory-friendly performance information.
    • Contact information if people have questions.

Christina Martin playing guitar and singing on stage.

What do you think has to happen for other musicians to adopt sensory-friendly performances?

I think almost all musicians would want to adopt sensory-friendly performances.  The biggest barriers to incorporating more sensory-friendly practices are education, perceived financial barriers or limited resources.  However, there is a lot that can be done for free, by educating yourself and/or consulting with experts.

What is the biggest barrier you encounter in becoming inclusive at performances as a musician?

Sometimes we perform events that are not all-inclusive. I feel financial pressure to tour as much as possible and to tour in many different types of venues.  For example, some venues have age restrictions. Some concert venues are still not accessible for individuals with mobility or sensory issues. Some venues struggle with the financial barrier to make their venues more inclusive.  I would like to try doing more events that are all-inclusive in the future. That means I have a lot to learn because there are so many music-loving people who have very specific needs.

Unmute the Music: Creating Sensory-Friendly Experiences for All Fans

At the 2023 Sensory Integration Education Conference, the Sensory Friendly Solutions team presented a poster about Christina Martin, showcasing how live performances can be adapted to meet the needs of fans with sensory sensitivities. Music and live shows are a powerful part of life, but they can be overwhelming for many—especially for those who experience sensory overload. That’s why we’re committed to helping artists and venues create more inclusive, sensory-friendly experiences.

Poster Presentation about Christina Martin's Sensory Friendly Performances

Christina has made significant adjustments to her shows, ensuring her music can be enjoyed by all fans, regardless of sensory sensitivities. You can support Christina’s ongoing efforts to make music more inclusive by becoming a patron on her Patreon. Through Patreon, you’ll gain access to exclusive content and insights directly from Christina herself as she continues to lead the way in sensory-friendly music.

To learn more about Christina’s journey and the experiences of others, we encourage you to watch our short documentary, Too Busy. Too Noisy. Too Bright. This 5-minute film dives into the realities of sensory overload and highlights champions like Christina who are committed to creating more inclusive environments. It’s a quick, insightful watch that sheds light on why sensory-friendly performances matter.

In Christina’s own words, “Making my performances more sensory-friendly wasn’t just about changing the environment—it was about changing the experience for my audience. I want everyone to feel comfortable, welcome, and able to enjoy the music.”

And if you’re ready to take your own performances to the next level, consider getting trained and certified—just like Christina did—through Sensory Friendly Solutions. Certification can help you adapt your performances, ensuring that everyone in your audience, no matter their sensory needs, feels included and valued.

Christina Martin
Going through the training and certification with Sensory Friendly Solutions empowered me to be able to offer sensory-friendly performances and shows that are inclusive and accessible to more people.

From Stage Lights to Sensory Sanctuary: FAQs on Creating Sensory-Friendly Music and Performances

How can I make live performances more comfortable for people with sensory sensitivities?

Reducing sensory overload is key. Check out our blog, Bringing Down the Curtain on Sensory Overload for practical tips on adapting live performances to be more inclusive for everyone.

How can I make virtual shows accessible to all audiences, including those with sensory sensitivities?

Creating an accessible online performance involves thoughtful adjustments. Learn more in our blog, Open the Mic to All: Making Online Shows Accessible, for tips on making virtual performances more welcoming.

What are relaxed performances, and how do they make shows more inclusive?

Relaxed performances are designed to create a more welcoming environment by making adjustments to sound, lighting, and audience expectations. Discover how to implement them in our blog, Demystifying Relaxed Performances: A Welcoming World for All.

How can I find funding for sensory-friendly initiatives?

Explore creative solutions in our blog post, Making Inclusion a Reality: Funding Your Sensory-Friendly Transformation.

Where can I find real-world examples of sensory-friendly design in different experiences?

Dive deeper into our library of case studies and explore innovative approaches to sensory-friendly design in diverse environments. From conference to art galleries, and to restaurants and co-working spaces, we showcase real-world examples that empower everyone to participate. Let’s unlock the power of inclusion together!

child sitting on ground at sensory friendly art at night festival event

Outcomes of Sensory-Friendly Collaboration at a Night Art Festival CB…

Three women sitting on stools presenting to an audience at a conference

Making Conferences Accessible for All: The B Corp Example Have…

Mixed race couple with their child eating out at a restaurant

Jungle Jim’s Goes Sensory-Friendly: Creating a Welcoming Space for All…

Referee about to drop the puck between two hockey players on the ice

From Shutout to Win: Creating a Quiet Room to Enjoy…

backs of heads of a full audience watching a theatre performance

Drama for All Ages: A Case Study in Making Theatre…

trio of young women, one wearing noise cancelling headphones, taking a selfie, in a crown of people at night

Making Art at Night Shine for Everyone: A Sensory-Friendly Success…

Young woman wheelchair user sitting in a conference venue hallway

Beyond the Checklist: Innovative Approaches to Sensory-Friendly Conference Design The…

Cozy co-working space with chairs and tables

From Barriers to Belonging: Transforming the Social Enterprise Hub In…

Keep the Music Playing: Sensory-Friendly Solutions for Your Success

Start with Sensory-Friendly 101

Learn the essentials of creating sensory-friendly environments with our Sensory-Friendly 101 Course, designed to help you make any space more inclusive and comfortable.

Ready to move from page to action?  

Audience

  • People with sensory differences
  • Parents & Educators
  • Event Planners & Business Owners
  • Healthcare Professionals & Caregivers
  • The general public

Duration

Less than 2 hours

Get Unlimited Courses and Resources Including Sensory-Friendly 101!

Create Inclusive Performances with Our Sensory-Friendly Performances Course

Ensure your shows are accessible to everyone. Our Sensory-Friendly Performances Course provides the tools you need to adapt performances for those with sensory sensitivities.

Ready to master the art of inclusive performances? 

Audience

  • Performers (musicians, actors, dancers, etc.)
  • Theatre & Venue Staff and Volunteers
  • Educators & Community Leaders

Duration

Less than 3 hours

Get Unlimited Courses and Resources Including Sensory Friendly Performances!

Watch Our Founder’s Short Video

Hear from Christel Seeberger, founder of Sensory Friendly Solutions, on how our training membership can support your journey to creating more inclusive environments.

Stay Updated with Our Latest Blogs

Explore fresh insights and tips with our latest blog posts, offering expert advice on sensory-friendly practices for various settings.

Sign Up for Our Newsletter

Join our community and stay connected! Sign up for our newsletter to receive exclusive tips, resources, and updates on creating sensory-friendly experiences.

Be Part of Our Sensory-Friendly Movement!

Join 1,100+ Subscribers Making a Difference!
Subscribe to our newsletter and gain insights into sensory overload and practical tips for creating sensory-friendly experiences.

🎉 BONUS: Get 2 FREE resources—our Event Guide and Map Guide—to help you start building more accessible and inclusive spaces today!

Exclusive Offer: Enjoy 10% off our All Access Training when you subscribe!

Skip to content