A Rising Star

There are many talented, artistic and creative people in Northland; some of them live with a disability.

Eleanor is an amazing lady living with autism who has been supported by IDEA Services to realise her dream of writing and singing her own songs, putting together her own CD and performing locally.

After a bit of a chat, lots of laughs, a few tears and a music jam ‘And I love you’ was born two hours later.

I encourage you to read the story of her musical journey written by Sydney Henemaia (Support Team at IDEA Services) and Eleanor’s own story of her involvement and experiences participating in the ‘Our Stories’ project.

Excert from Sydney Heremaia’s story (IDEA Services Support Team):
Here in Whangarei Eleanor came to work as she does every week day however today El didn’t seem her usual self, something was up. I went to the music room in the hope that El would follow, that she did. After a bit of a chat, lots of laughs, a few tears and a music jam ‘And I love you’ was born two hours later.
Sydney_Heremaia_story.doc

Excert from Eleanor’s story:
The kids were surprised and interested to learn that I have been to lots of concerts and musicals, like ‘Cats’ and ‘Queen’, and that I plan to go to the ‘Big Day Out’, in Auckland next year.

They asked me a lot of questions, it was a bit scary at first but the kids made me feel good on the day.
Eleanor_Beggs_story.doc

If you would like to purchase a copy of Eleanor’s CD, Eleanor Unplugged, please visit IDEA Services at 14 - 20 Clyde Street and 11 Cook Street.  The CD has three songs, two which have been written by Eleanor including ‘And I love you’.  CD’s cost $8.

Below is a audio tape of Eleanors interview with Craig and Jax from Classic radio where she also sings her song ‘And I love You’.

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