Despite disability, musicians impress at nonprofit gala fundraiser

Feb 23, 2021

Being a musician in a pandemic is no picnic — but two Dartmouth musicians wowed a virtual audience at an online gala fundraiser for the Arc of Massachusetts earlier this month.

Violinist Lindsey Melo of Dartmouth performed at the virtual “cocktail soiree” on Feb. 11 to help raise funds for the nonprofit. 

The Arc of Massachusetts aims to enhance the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including autism.

Melo — a 23-year-old who is currently studying Violin Performance at UMass Dartmouth — was diagnosed with autism at the age of three.

She has been playing violin since fourth grade.

“I like the way that it sounds and the way that you play it,” Melo said. “And the instrument itself!” 

Her mom Kelly Melo said that learning violin was initially “a huge challenge” for Lindsey.

“We both thought it was maybe unreasonable,” Kelly said. But thanks to some wonderful teachers and other supporters, violin has “become a crucial part of her life.”

“It’s really helped her,” noted Kelly. “She’s come a long way.”

Lindsey said she was excited to play in the gala. 

“It felt very very good,” she added.

After playing one of her pieces, Melo was congratulated by award-winning journalist and Boston news anchor Paula Ebben.

“Thank you, Lindsey. That was incredible,” Ebben said.

And it’s already resulted in another gig.

Lindsey will be performing again on Feb. 24 via Facebook Live in one of the monthly shows for the Doug Flutie, Jr. Foundation for Autism.

“Music is one of the things that is universal to other people,” Melo said. “It helps to connect with others.”

Trumpet player and Dartmouth High School sophomore Benjamin Valente also performed at the virtual gala, although he could not be reached for comment on the experience.

Melo’s performance can be seen at youtu.be/xQDuqkuzm1w?t=777, and Valente’s performance at youtu.be/xQDuqkuzm1w?t=1943.