Hi and welcome!

I'm Laura Santoni the founder of Sing the Change; a creative platform that uses the power of music and song to empower people from the inside out.  Music has taught me so much over the years. When people come together on common ground and give a voice to their hearts, it generates a unifying force that opens minds and reveals a sense of belonging. 

I’ve had the privilege of seeing young social artists emerge from the classroom inspiring their peers with their newly found vision and voices.  I've seen how their struggles and vulnerability can bring about feelings of connection that inspire their creativity and confidence. I've had the privilege of working with people of different ages and backgrounds, and watched diversity and disconnection transform into one voice for the greater good. Witnessing the unfolding of this fertile space and the blossoming of its beautiful seeds into positive change is a thrill.

My relationship with singing and songwriting evolved through a variety of experiences and modalities for therapy that later inspired Sing the Change. As an ex-school teacher with a background and passion for singing, personal development, acting, and vocal coaching, teaching what I love ignites me. 

My father's musical career influenced my singing and songwriting. From a young age singing and dancing were my greatest allies while dealing with feelings of not belonging and low self-esteem. Music was a loyal companion that helped me to find my authentic voice, while songwriting opened a door to self-discovery and personal growth. My background drew me to different cultures and musical genres. Born in Hong Kong to Italian parents and having grown up in Australia made diversity the norm. Over the years, I performed in bands, formed a few of my own, recorded my compositions, and put together a one-woman production. 

My interest in creating youth empowerment projects began after moving to South Africa in the 90s. I was invited to run my first musical project in Crossroads Township at a school called Qinqqa Mntwana. It was an unexpected beginning with much to learn and experience. I was deeply moved by the spirit of Ubuntu and the sense of community. Hearing the children sing their traditional African songs with their rich harmonies pulled at my soul. I felt compelled to integrate it all into the program that was then called Masicule Masidanise. 

Today Sing the Change allows me to collaborate with different organizations, learners, artists, musicians, NGOs, schools, and businesses. I'm passionate about exposing people to the power of music and song. It's a transformative process that is heart-driven and resonates deeply with the best of human nature. If you would like a Sing the Change experience, I'd love to hear from you. 

Laura 

        

In 2014 Laura gave a TEDx Talk called "Finding authenticity through music". This talk shares her personal journey with music and her evolving projects up until then. She shares her stories about the power of singing and songwriting for personal development and social change. 

Laura Santoni - Tedx Talk AIMS 2014 Cape Town, "Finding authenticity through music."