By Kate Bartlett
Max Muscato is an American singer, songwriter, writer, director, film composer and philanthropist.
In the music world, Max is known for blending rock, blues and alternative styles as a singer-songwriter, guitarist, and producer based in Buffalo, NY. He is Founder & CEO of Rock Autism Music Festival, a nonprofit organization supporting individuals with autism in the music industry, driven by his personal experience with his brother’s battle with autism and addiction. Max will take the stage headlining the Ellicottville Summer Music Festival on Sunday, July 5th.
Music has been a part of Max’s life for as long as he can remember. Born to a touring musician, some of Max’s earliest memories are backstage at his dad’s shows. “I remember wearing headphones backstage while my dad played,” recalls Max. “Music has always been a big part of my life.” He grew up outside of Baltimore, Maryland, living in various cities before his dad settled back in Buffalo.
Max first learned to play drums like his professional percussionist father Marc and older brother, Sonny. He began learning guitar around age 11, his first song being “Smoke on the Water.” “My dad taught me my first song. I took it and ran. I learned every song I could think of. I learned by listening and lots of practice.” Completely self-taught, he spent countless hours writing original music locked away in his bedroom. He dedicated his first song at age 14 to his dad as a birthday present. “It was a core moment; I’ll never forget how much I enjoyed songwriting.”
Max developed his sound playing in various bands, having fun and bonding over music, but never really found his niche. Eventually, he decided to pursue a solo career. “My dad encouraged me. He helped me believe in myself and pushed me to give it a try.”
Max describes his unique sonic signature as a blend of John Mayer’s soulful depth with the Red Hot Chili Peppers’ energetic edge. He gains inspiration from various types of music including Nickelback, Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd and composers Yanni, Enya, James Horner, Trans-Siberian Orchestra among others.
He released his debut album in 2017, Act One, which is now considered a “good demo” as he aims to rework these songs. “I’m fortunate to have made many connections in the music industry, and I’m hoping to bring new life into these songs with their musical expertise,” explains Max.
In 2017, Max also founded Rock Autism in efforts to provide autistic individuals and their families with the knowledge and confidence to pursue a career in the multimedia arts. “I became frustrated with the lack of resources in WNY to help my brother, Sonny, who has Autism, past the age of 18” explains Max. “I watched him struggle and he got mixed up in the wrong crowd. He became an addict, began
drug-dealing and spent time in jail. I became incredibly frustrated with finding support, so I decided to do something about it.”
Max raised funds at his album release party and formed Rock Autism, a 503c3 nonprofit dedicated to empowering the Autism community with Rock Autism Multimedia Vocational Programs, revolutionary music and film production training and internships that would change the lives of students by fostering.
Max’s bold vision: to put the tech in their hands let their creativity fly. In 2018 and 2019 he hosted the Rock Autism Music Festival in Ellicottville to raise funds and awareness of this organization. “The community was incredibly welcoming, and we had a great time,” explains Max. “Everyone was extremely supportive; the community has a big heart.”
8 years later, Rock Autism Multimedia Vocational Programs has provided many firsts for their students: first friendships, first paychecks and first time truly finding their voice. “Not only do we offer a hands-on experience, but it’s a welcoming and accepting environment,” explains Max. “We treat everyone with respect and nurture their passions to help them find their identity and figure out who they want to be in the real world.” Families are grateful for not only the experience as a productive and creative outlet but also the bonds they’ve shared with others in the community.
Max’s artistic endeavors led him to create and write Sonnyboy, a film that offers an authentic glimpse into his family dynamic and relentless effort needed to succeed in the music industry. His deeply personal songs, inspired by his brother’s struggles with autism and addiction, drive his artistic passion and activism. Max began performing songs from Sonnyboy during his live performances, ultimately developing a live show that derived from the film. “People really love the music,” explains Max. “It’s been an incredible journey performing onstage; it’s my passion project” Through his musical connections, Max hopes to eventually bring the show to Broadway.
Max is looking forward to returning to Ellicottville to perform at the Summer Music Festival at Holiday Valley. “I have many fond memories here,” remarks Max. “I grew up snowboarding on the slopes with my dad. We’d be the first tracks at 6am in the morning, and often were the last ones on the hill.”
While in town for the Summer Music Festival, Max and the Rock Autism team will be filming their touring docuseries. “Our series, Setlist, follows my brother and I on the road, giving a glimpse of a touring musician’s lifestyle as well as meeting and collaborating with other neurodiverse individuals.” The series is a grassroots project in partnership with the producers of It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia. “We’ll be in town all 3 days (July 3-5) of the festival to film content and raise awareness for Rock Autism.”
Max’s artistic passions have led him to create a multitude of projects and his philanthropic endeavors have made a difference in the community and in the lives of those with Autism and neurodiversity.
For more information visit MaxMuscato.com and RockAutism.org and follow on social media for updates and release of Setlist docuseries. Tickets for Summer Music Festival will be available on the Ellicottville Chamber of Commerce website ellicottvilleny.com.