Spectrum Bluegrass

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Spectrum Bluegrass is dedicated to connecting neurodiverse people through bluegrass music.

Welcome to Spectrum Bluegrass.  Founded in 2024, Spectrum Bluegrass has a mission to connect neurodiverse people through bluegrass music. While the groups’ initial focus is on those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), we have a vision to expand and embrace all aspects of neurodiversity. 

Our goal is to ease the challenges and amplify the enjoyment of bluegrass for neurodiverse people by creating an active community where we explore new pathways to express ourselves and connect.

Five musicians perform on stage with guitars, a mandolin, and a double bass, surrounded by musical equipment and illuminated by stage lights.

Spectrum Bluegrass Band Performance at the LA Greek Theatre April 26, 2025

Upcoming Meetings/Events:

Saturday, January 17th – 10 am
in the CBA Suite, onsite at Bakersfield Marriott.

Spectrum Bluegrass will be hosting a meet-up and inclusive jam at this year’s Great 48. Great 48 is a 48 hour jamming event, including workshops, showcase bands, and camaraderie with new and old friends.

In this meet-up, we will review our 2026 goals and discuss ways to increase engagement. Adults and Children of all levels are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Bring your instruments, as there will be a jam to follow. You are also welcome to come to watch/listen and see if bluegrass is right for you. No registration for this meet-up is required but RSVPs are appreciated by emailing Spectrum@CaliforniaBluegrass.net.

Save the Date: June 18-21, 2026
(Meeting Date/Time TBA)

Spectrum Bluegrass will be hosting a meet-up and inclusive jam at the 2026 Father’s Day Bluegrass Festival. More details to come…

Spectrum Bluegrass in the Media:

Bluegrass and Autism
Spectrum Bluegrass Plays Autism Speaks

 

Chapter Leaders:

John Frizzell, Spectrum Bluegrass Co-Founder, long-time CBA member, musician, and professional film and television composer who was diagnosed with ASD as an adult.
Steve Sidney, Spectrum Bluegrass Co-Founder, long-time CBA member and parent of an adult bluegrass musician with ASD.
Melanie Biesecker, CBA member, musician and non-profit leader with a background in programming for children with disabilities.

If you are interested in volunteering to help support the chapter, please let us know.

Contact us to learn more, or join our mailing list or volunteer: Spectrum@CaliforniaBluegrass.net

Five people stand in a row holding musical instruments—including a banjo, two acoustic guitars, a mandolin, and an upright bass—on a black-and-white checkered floor.

Spectrum Bluegrass Band at the LA Greek Theatre