Anthony Plog on Music

Conversations with performers, composers, and entrepreneurs

Amy Scurria and Ryan Gardner: A multi-award winning composer in discussion with Professor of Trumpet at UC Boulder on building connections, understanding, and highlighting the power of embracing autism in music

Anthony Plog, host
Eddie Ludema, producer
Date posted: Sep 28, 2025

Today, we welcome two remarkable guests: composer Amy Scurria and Dr. Ryan Gardner, Associate Professor of Trumpet at the University of Colorado Boulder. Amy, a multi-award-winning composer, has seen her work performed worldwide, including at Carnegie Hall. With a unique perspective shaped by her late autism diagnosis, she began composing at just eight years old, using music as a language to explore her emotions. Ryan, originally from Santa Monica, California, has spent over a decade teaching trumpet and is known for his innovative approaches to performance psychology. He also serves as the artistic director for Music for Autism, a program that creates inclusive concert experiences for autistic individuals and their families.


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Part 1

In the first part of our conversation, we dive into the intersections of music and autism. Amy shares her insights on neurodiversity and how it shapes her approach to composing, while Ryan discusses the transformative power of music for autistic audiences. As Amy poignantly states, "Neurodiversity means we’re just scratching the surface of what the human brain is capable of and how it works." Their stories and perspectives promise to offer enlightening views on how music can bridge differences and create connections.

Become a Contributing Listener to enjoy more from Tony's interview with Amy and Ryan!

[Subscriber Content] In the subscriber section, we delve deeper into Amy's journey as a composer and her educational experiences. She reflects on her influences, including her composition teachers at Rice University and Duke University, and shares thoughts on how improvisation has played a role in her creative process. Ryan also discusses the impactful training he received and the importance of understanding individual learning styles in music education. Their shared wisdom is sure to resonate and inspire anyone interested in the rich tapestry of music education and neurodiversity.



The podcast theme music, Four Sierra Scenes, written by Anthony Plog, is taken from Crystal Records S205, copyright ©1980 Crystal Records Inc., and is used by permission. Unauthorized duplication is not permitted.