Jane Stewart, Founder of Westview School, Honored by Music for Autism

The Westview School was honored on February 19, 2011 with a Music for Autism Tribute Concert in loving memory of the school’s founder, Jane Stewart.  Robert Accordino, M4A founder, presented the school with a beautiful photo collage of Jane at M4A concerts.

Jane founded the Westview School in 1981 and developed it into a model school for children on the autism spectrum.  She was admired by the Houston educational and medical communities, as well by the autism community worldwide.  Knowing the profound effect music has on children with autism, Jane proudly hosted M4A concerts as the organization grew to establish a presence in cities nationwide.  Sadly, Jane passed away in November 2010, leaving a wonderful legacy behind.

Beautiful music was provided by a string quartet from the Shepherd School of Music, consisting of Emily Herdeman, violin; Creston Herron, violin; Roberto Papi, viola; and Madeline Herdeman, cello.  Children and adults alike were moved to dance and sing along as the string quartet performed several familiar pieces. Children were delighted and parents were thrilled as they freely and enthusiastically participated in the lively concert.  The Westview School, and everyone who attended the concert, expressed their appreciation to Robert Accordino , M4A’s US Founder and to M4A for honoring the memory of Jane Stewart through such a special day.

The Westview School looks forward to hosting the next Houston M4A concert on April 16, 2011, with the Rice University Graduate Brass Quintet performing.