Blind and Autistic Musician Santon Overcomes Challenges to Become a Master of His Craft and Honored as the First Mystic Side Opera Artist of Note

Mystic Side Opera Company

Santon is an inspiration to many, and it is no surprise that he has been honored as the first Mystic Side Opera Artist of Note. The Artists of Note honor recognizes inspirational musicians and artists who embody raw passion, extraordinary perseverance, and who demonstrate an unwavering commitment to the pursuit of excellence towards mastering their art.

Santon's journey to becoming an award-winning musician is truly remarkable. Born blind and autistic, he faced many challenges from a young age. However, he showed a natural talent for music from a very young age and began piano lessons at 3.5 years old. He went on to attend Perkins School for the Blind, where he performed with some of the biggest names in music, including Orleans, Felix Cavaliere’s Rascals, Peter Wolf, Bob Weir of the Grateful Dead, and Natalie Merchant.

Santon's passion and dedication to music led him to graduate from Berklee College of Music, summa cum laude. He plays multiple instruments in various genres and composes music, performing as a solo pianist, accompanying singers, and playing piano in the Boston Tango Orchestra. He has also been collaborating with a Kentucky-native writer and spoken word artist CD Collins, composing and playing music to her lyrics.

Santon's performances are not just limited to Boston, he has traveled to Colorado, Kentucky, New York, and several other states to play solo or with his music partners. He has also produced 2 albums, “Flavors of the Rainbow” – solo piano classical favorites, and “Night Animals” – CD Collins & Santon duet of spoken word with music.

Santon is not just a musician, he is a true lover of life. When he is not playing music, he is dancing the Argentine tango, doing acrobatics on a trapeze, windsurfing, riding a tandem bicycle with his dad, swimming, skiing, skating, traveling and fully enjoying life.

Santon's story is a reminder of the value and unlimited potential that every human possesses. His journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and dedication in the pursuit of excellence.

It is truly an honor to have such a talented and inspiring artist like Santon among the ranks of the Mystic Side Opera Artists of Note. He is a reminder that anything is possible with hard work, dedication, and a love for what you do.