I found this article below about a new CD available in stores today promoting "awareness" for children with special needs. I love the story behind this musician's work and love that his back up singers all have Down syndrome!
Chicago-based musician Leonardo, is hoping his newest CD, Makin' Waves (October 21, 2008; Dune Disc; $12.99, run time 40:33), makes a big splash in the kids music world, but not for the reasons you might think.
In honor of his younger brother Mario, who has both Down syndrome and autism, every song on the album features a chorus of teens who have Down syndrome. Leonardo said that in recording the CD, it seemed natural to use some of the material from his performances for kids with special needs and even more important, to invite them to perform with him.
Leonardo has always been a musical advocate, performing at camps and fundraisers for to raise awareness for children with special needs. The release of the CD coincides with Down Syndrome Awareness Month, which is held every October.
During home recording sessions, Leonardo noticed that his brother, Mario, who is not usually very vocal, was eager to participate. The recording of his first CD, Parents Choice-award winner Makin’ Lemonade, became a family affair, with Leonardo’s young cousins singing backup, while Mario contributed chicken clucks and bee buzzing.
According to the National Down Syndrome Society, Down syndrome is the most commonly occurring genetic condition. One in every 733 live births is a child with Down syndrome, representing approximately 5,000 births per year in the United States alone. Today, more than 400,000 people in the United States have Down syndrome.
To learn more about The CD Makin' Waves visit Leonardo's
In honor of his younger brother Mario, who has both Down syndrome and autism, every song on the album features a chorus of teens who have Down syndrome. Leonardo said that in recording the CD, it seemed natural to use some of the material from his performances for kids with special needs and even more important, to invite them to perform with him.
Leonardo has always been a musical advocate, performing at camps and fundraisers for to raise awareness for children with special needs. The release of the CD coincides with Down Syndrome Awareness Month, which is held every October.
During home recording sessions, Leonardo noticed that his brother, Mario, who is not usually very vocal, was eager to participate. The recording of his first CD, Parents Choice-award winner Makin’ Lemonade, became a family affair, with Leonardo’s young cousins singing backup, while Mario contributed chicken clucks and bee buzzing.
According to the National Down Syndrome Society, Down syndrome is the most commonly occurring genetic condition. One in every 733 live births is a child with Down syndrome, representing approximately 5,000 births per year in the United States alone. Today, more than 400,000 people in the United States have Down syndrome.
To learn more about The CD Makin' Waves visit Leonardo's
1 comment:
I will be checking it out and buying it as well, it sounds amazing and I have never heard of it. Thanks so much for sharing Cheri!
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