Asperger’s and Ukuleles

My name is Tom Peters. I am a professional musician, composer and non-profit consultant. I’m 48 years old with a wonderful wife and son. I also have Asperger’s Syndrome.

So what is Asperger’s Syndrome?

Asperger’s Syndrome is a mild form of autism, characterized by an inability to understand how to interact socially. Those of us with Asperger’s—or Apies, as a term of endearment—tend to have few facial expressions and are apt to stare blankly at other people. It’s nothing personal; we really can’t help it.

Aspies are often accused of being “in their own world” and preoccupied with their own thoughts.  We are often clumsy with uncoordinated movements, are socially awkward, have repetitive routines or rituals, odd speech and language, and non-verbal communication problems. God knows, I qualify for all of those!

So why is this blog called Asperger’s Ukulele? One hallmark of Asperger’s Syndrome is an intense interest in one or two subjects, and we often torment those around us about our special interests. For me, one special interest led to another. I know, I know…I’m being all Aspie and not getting to the point, but bear with me—I’m getting there.

In addition to performing classical music, I compose and perform live film scores here in Los Angeles for films from the silent era. Last November I was working on a new score for the original film version of Chicago. I needed a jazz-era score, so I pressed my Grandfather’s banjo into service and blew the dust off my old ukulele. The ukulele stuck.

After playing classical bass for nearly 40 years, I’m now on an interesting journey in learning a new instrument. I hope you’ll join me on my voyage of self-discovery and music.