When music fills the air in the Reynolds household, something magical happens. Sixteen-year-old Allee Reynolds and her fifteen-year-old brother Cooper share an immediate connection that transcends words, bound together by their mutual love of melody and rhythm.
The Power of Musical Connection
Cooper lives with autism spectrum disorder level three, which his mother Kristy Reynolds describes as making him non-conversational. While he may not express his feelings through conventional language, his entire being responds to music with unmistakable joy. "His smile and happy moods when music is on say everything," Mrs Reynolds explains.
Allee, a talented student at Wollongong High School of the Performing Arts, is what many would call a triple threat - excelling in singing, dancing, and drama. Her younger brother has become her most devoted fan, finding comfort and connection through her musical abilities.
Music as Therapy and Communication
The siblings' shared musical journey has revealed remarkable insights about Cooper's abilities. "We did music therapy for a while and they told us that he actually had perfect pitch," Mrs Reynolds reveals. This discovery helped explain Cooper's profound connection to music and its calming effects on his anxiety.
Allee describes how music has become an essential part of their daily routine, particularly during challenging moments. "I play to him at night before he's going to sleep, especially if he's a bit anxious during the day or even if he's happy. It's just the level of relaxation you can see after he's had a song."
The repetitive nature of songs makes them easier for Cooper to learn and engage with. Allee recalls a particularly touching moment during her rehearsals for the musical Annie: "It's so funny when I'm rehearsing for a musical, and then I just hear 'tomorrow, tomorrow' in the background," she says of Cooper singing along to the iconic show tune.
A Shared Journey to the Stage
This week marks a significant milestone for Allee as she prepares for her first of three Schools Spectacular performances as a featured vocalist. The massive production involves more than 5,500 students and takes place at Qudos Bank Arena starting Friday, November 28.
While Allee takes the spotlight, Cooper remains very much part of her journey. Their mother observes how music creates a vital bridge between them: "I'd say it would be pretty isolating to be on the outside of conversations all the time. I'd definitely say it's a great connection for them. It just brings him a lot of joy."
Beyond the performance aspect, Allee values the deeper relationship she shares with her brother. "He's very loving and kind and generous, and once you've got his trust, he'll trust you for life, and he'll be there for you all the time."
The Reynolds family's story highlights how music therapy and shared passions can create powerful bonds that transcend conventional communication barriers. As Allee continues to develop her performing arts career, she carries with her the knowledge that her talent brings light and connection to her brother's world in ways words never could.
