For centuries, musicians have made remarkable contributions to the world of art. Legendary artists like Beethoven, Ray Charles, and Paul Stanley have created songs and albums that will stand the test of time. And what makes their legacies even more inspiring is that all of them lived with disabilities. These performers show that talent has no limits.
Making Music: Holli's Story
By embracing accessibility and inclusivity, the music industry continues to evolve, creating more opportunities for diverse talents to shine. Their success shows that musicians with disabilities have great potential, while challenging outdated ideas about who can be an artist.
In the YouTube video, "Disabled Musician Holli Shares Her Experiences of Making Music," from Youth Music, Holli, a disabled musician, discusses her journey in music creation. She was also a co-researcher for the "Reshape Music" report, which explores the lived experiences of disabled musicians. Holli's insights shed light on these issues, including difficulty in finding teachers and adapted instruments tailored to their needs.
Spotlight on Musicians with Disabilities
Paul Wittgenstein, a pianist who lost his right arm, commissioned works using just his left hand. Itzhak Perlman, a violinist who lost the use of his legs to polio, continues to perform today, and is a teacher and mentor. Gaelynn Lea, a folk singer and violinist with brittle bone disease, won NPR’s Tiny Desk Contest and promotes disability rights. Lachi and Elly-May Barnes use their platforms to advocate for inclusion in the music industry.
Read the article here: https://will.illinois.edu/clefnotes/entry/disability-pride-month-spotlight-on-musicians-with-disabilities
What are your thoughts on musicians with disabilities? Do you know any disabled musicians? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
Featuring...
Elevatus Training
"Elevatus Training is revising our curriculum, Sexuality Education for People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, with funding from the Policy and Research Group. The goal is to focus more on helping young people reduce their risk of sexually transmitted infections. We are looking for young adults with intellectual disabilities to participate in paid interviews to inform the new content."
Who Do We Want to Hear From?
- 18 - 24 years old
- Has a diagnosed intellectual disability
- Can communicate in English (either orally or using assistive technology) or American Sign Language
- Are willing to discuss topics related to sex
- Lives in the United States
What Is Involved?
- Take a 10-question pre-screening survey
- (some may not qualify)
- Attend a 45-minute Zoom call
- Receive a $50 online gift card after the interview
- Interview information will be kept confidential, and interviewees can stop at any time or decline to answer questions.
Want to Participate? Take the pre-screening survey here:
Have Questions? Contact Katherine McLaughlin: kath@elevatustraining.com
Featuring...
Empower Tomorrow: Youth Advocacy Summit 2025
This FREE conference will focus on Leadership Advocacy Skills: Understanding School to Adult Life Transition and Healthcare/ Wellness Goals
Join us in person to learn strategies and resources from SPAN!
There will be a variety of Exhibitors providing resources.
***PLEASE READ***
Parents and caregivers (who can attend separate tracks) must accompany the conference with their young adult/youth. SPAN does not provide support to individuals, but they are welcome to provide their support person.
***DISCLAIMER***
No youth/young adults can be left unattended or dropped off at the event at any time.
Contact Nicole Pratt at npratt@spanadvocacy.org for any questions.
Date and Time: Saturday, April 26 · 8:30am - 3pm EDT
Location: Mercer County College Conference Center
1200 Old Trenton Road West Windsor Township, NJ 08550
Register To Attend: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/empower-tomorrow-youth-advocacy-summit-2025-tickets-1236331644229?aff=ebdsoporgprofile
The SPAN Youth Chat
Join us virtually on April 2nd from 4:15 to 5:00 PM. Join Jeremy Hayer and the Youth Engagement Team, as we chat about independent living as a young adult. We'll cover everything from finding accessible housing, to budgeting and rent, and much more!
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Resources...
Link to SPAN's website: www.spanadvocacy.org
Link to SPAN's Youth in the Know Resource Page: Youth in the Know
We're here for you! Call SPAN if you need assistance: 1-800-654-7726.
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