Special Needs Orchestra Makes History Performing at the Vatican
Hearts for Music (HFM), an Akron-based orchestra composed of talented musicians with special needs, was invited by the Vatican to perform on April 29 at the 2025 Jubilee of Persons with Disabilities in Rome, Italy. The group included 14 young local musicians, alongside their parents, volunteers, and a mini medical team.
“We are so grateful for the opportunity to represent our mission on an international stage in front of more than 10,000 people — and take in the incredible sights along the way,” said Kitrael Chin, founder of Hearts for Music. “We hope our music helped show the world that individuals with special needs are not only capable of creating beauty through music but also of inspiring inclusion, connection, and opportunity.”
As the only American special needs/disability music ensemble at this historic event, Hearts For Music represented the entire United States and served as global ambassadors for all individuals with disabilities. This is the first time in history that a special needs music ensemble featuring the widest age range and disabilities has participated in something as unique as the 2025 Vatican Jubilee festivities.
“For the first time ever, there was a multinational, multi-ethnic, multi-disability music ensemble,” said Chin. “Over the years, the orchestra has had some incredible opportunities, but nothing quite like this.”
Originally scheduled as a performance in the presence of Pope Francis, the event served as a tribute following the Pope’s recent passing and just days before the papal conclave elected the next pope.
“It was quite a moving experience to witness,” said Ellana Fishwick, LCBDD Recreation Specialist. “Seeing the performers’ faces light up when they strike a chord is truly an emotional high.”
The Hearts for Music ensemble is more than an orchestra. It is a movement dedicated to transforming disabilities into abilities. Through music, they challenge perceptions and build bridges between communities.
“In 2018, we initially reached out to individuals via the County Board’s programs to identify interest for participating in HFM,” said Fishwick. “Performers have varying levels of abilities and some use iPads and other devices to contribute musically. Obtaining iPads through the Willoughby Rotary Autism Project (WRAP) and grants/donations from Deepwood Foundation are extremely beneficial to this effort.”
Cade and Gabi, two performers who receive services from the Lake County Board of Developmental Disabilities/Deepwood, were part of the orchestra at the Jubilee.
“The musicians truly felt like superstars with all of the attention they received,” added Fishwick. “To see Gabi’s face light up as she exclaimed “I am a superstar! I am a superstar!” says it all.
Despite the excitement of the day, performers were calm and collected as they took the stage. Their performance lasted thirty minutes but the memory and impact will last a lifetime.
During their stay in Italy, the ensemble was fully immersed in Rome’s rich culture and history. From the majestic Castel Sant’Angelo to the awe-inspiring mosaics of the basilicas, every moment was filled with inspiration and joy.
Hearts for Music extends heartfelt thanks to all who made this historic journey possible. Their journey was funded by private donations from groups and individuals across the U.S. and beyond.
“Words can’t express the depth of our gratitude,” Chin shared. “The support received from our community helped us make history.”
As they return home, their mission continues, with a concert scheduled for June 1 at St. Bernard in Akron, Ohio to support the church’s reconstruction.
Hearts for Music is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization providing inclusive opportunities for individuals with special needs to express themselves through music in a professional ensemble setting. To learn more, contact info@heartsformusic.org or visit www.heartsformusic.org/. You can also learn more about the Lake County Board of Developmental Disabilities/Deepwood at www.LakeBDD.org.
