Our 
Story

Especially Everyone is rooted in the diverse experiences of founder Pete Kozak—as a musician, educator, therapist, coach, and event producer. Since its inception, the organization has aimed to create authentic spaces where music can foster genuine connection, creativity, and belonging for people of all abilities.

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The seed for Especially Everyone was planted in 2016, when Pete, working as a job coach, invited a client who loved music to one of his band’s concerts. Despite expressing deep appreciation for music, the client declined, revealing he’d never attended a live concert before and wasn't comfortable doing so. Pete quickly realized that aspects of traditional concerts—loud, dark, crowded, and late—presented significant barriers for individuals with sensory sensitivities or social anxieties.

Recognizing this unmet need, Pete founded Especially Everyone in 2018, assembling musicians who shared his vision to produce sensory-friendly concerts that welcomed and engaged all audiences.

In 2020, when the pandemic temporarily paused live performances, Pete and members of the band used this period to reflect, innovate, and create original music designed specifically for inclusive and interactive performances. This creative evolution led to the relaunch of Especially Everyone in December 2022, where new original music was tested and refined.

By October 2023, Especially Everyone had grown its vision into a full-scale production—The Especially Everyone Experience—a dynamic and interactive concert experience that celebrates neurodiversity, empowers authentic self-expression, and builds community through music.

Now, Especially Everyone continues to expand its impact. With a dedicated team that brings diverse expertise and shared passion, the organization is committed to creating opportunities for meaningful participation, community engagement, and authentic self-expression for neurodivergent adults through music.