14-year-old cellist Ronan Sands performs the first movement of Saint Saëns’ Cello Concerto No. 1.

Ronan lives in Maine and has studied cello for seven years with Noreen Silver. He says, “I am neurodivergent and I think that this actually helps me as a musician in some ways. I can be very focused on one thing and I also happen to have very sensitive hearing. I think it’s important to share with others that I am on the Autism spectrum because I want people to know that we are really just like everyone else.”

Ronan is participating in From the Top’s Musicians with Disabilities Celebration. Throughout the spring, From the Top is spotlighting young disabled and neurodivergent musicians who have been invited to share their talents and stories on Daily Joy.