Acceptance is the key. Gianna is successfully working on her mission of autism awareness and importance of acceptance and inclusion. She is a guest speaker at schools, fundraisers, and events. Her singing is playing an important role for awareness and for her belief that autistic people can do great things given a chance. We are proud of Gianna for her dedication towards autism awareness.

Can you tell us about your journey as a singer? How are you preparing yourself for your goal of becoming the first autistic singer on Broadway or at the Metropolitan Opera?G: Ever since I was diagnosed with autism, music has always helped me process things better. I also developed a talent and passion I never knew existed. Then, I discovered that, although they may be non-verbal, many other people on the autism spectrum have an amazing ability to understand and play music. I took voice lessons at the Boston Conservatory in a music program for autistic students. I was also in the chorus in high school and in the choir in church. I am now a Music Major in Voice and a Minor in Theatre and French at Gordon College. I am looking forward to participating in a internship in my Junior or Senior year in Music.

How did you motivated to become a speaker? What kind of advice would you give to autistic kids who are attending school?G: I was diagnosed when autism was misunderstood and services were minimal. As a result, I was severely bullied by children, parents, and even teachers because they did not want to take the time to understand my disability. Teachers didn’t think I could learn and put limitations on me. As a result, the bullying got so bad we actually moved from PA to MA for a new start. It was then that I knew I needed to spread autism awareness, stop the bullying and promote the importance of inclusion. So I am now a guest speaker at schools, fundraisers and events bringing my mission of autism awareness and importance of acceptance and inclusion. I believe that autistic people can do great things is they are given a chance and included. Through my singing, I hope to change perceptions of autism one song at a time. My advice: Ignore those that put limitations on you. Never give up and be patient, you will make it in your own time. You are an amazing person and no one should ever take that away from you!

Tell us your experience about singing at Fenway Park in Boston? How is singing helping you to raise awareness about Autism?G: When I was in 8th grade I sent in an audition tape to the Red Sox to sing the National Anthem, and I was picked! Then in 2013, The Red Sox asked me back to sing God Bless America. I have always been underestimated, but when people hear me sing they don’t underestimate me anymore, and start looking at me as a singer who just happens to have autism.

Do you get nervous before a performance? If yes, how do you overcome the nervousness?G: Not at all. After singing in front of 35,000 people at Fenway Park, nothing makes me nervous.

ow are you changing the perception of Autism? What kind of help are you expecting from the community in this change?G: I believe that if musically talented people with autism could develop their craft, it would create a path of inclusion in society for them. When people hear me sing, they realize that autism will not stop me, and I am capable of succeeding if given a chance. It is very important to me that whatever I do with my future, it must include using my abilities and talents to help others, since I have been so blessed in my life. I hope that through my success, the public will include others on the spectrum, and look past their disabilities and focus on their talents. Temple Grandin told me once that the world can not function without autistic minds.

Who is your favorite singer? Did you ever sing his/her song in your performance?G: Renee Fleming, Kristen Chenoweth, and Audra McDonald. I just sang a song from Carousel for my sophomore voice juries in college that Audra McDonald sang.

What are your other hobbies?G: Drawing and acting

What is your favorite place to visit and why?G: Disney World. It makes me feel included and I hope maybe someday, I could work there as a performer.

What do you like to do when you are with your friends?G: I enjoy just hanging out with the girls in my dorm.

Any special message for our community?G: Inclusion! Inclusion! Inclusion! If you give those on the autism spectrum a chance, you will be amazed at our talent!