By Margaret Maccoll
Emma Tomlinson sometimes has problems with the ordinary tasks of everyday life but once on stage the singer shows extraordinary talent.
Emma was diagnosed with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) at four years of age. With treatment from an early age she has managed to deal with her disorder and benefit from the gift of music it has given her.
Her mother, Danielle, said she survived the bullying she faced at school by escaping into music and has become an advocate for women with ASD to show that with determination and support they can also achieve their dreams.
“I absolutely immersed myself in musical theatre, classical and opera as it allowed me to feel calm,” Emma said.
“I pour all my emotions into my melodies and lyrics, composing what not only relates to me but can relate to others.
“I generally, I have found through my journey that most musicians have a passion for supporting individuals who are different because they see they have the ability to shine through writing and singing. It seems the stigma of ASD is something of the past especially in the eyes of the entertainment industry. How often do we see quirky interesting entertainers who seem to have a story to share but produce beautiful quality music.”
The 18-year-old who is studying a Bachelor of Creative Industries at the University of the Sunshine Coast (USC) began singing lessons with opera singer Maggie Noonan at the age of 14 and has been mentored by Peter Koppes from The Church. Both encourage the young performer to seize opportunities and she has taken that message on board.
Emma is now gaining attention across the coast with regular gigs at a range of venues including Streets of Harlem in Hastings Street and Foxy on Coolum, The Majestic Theatre, Pomona and the Cooran Arts Memorial Hall where she produced a concert called “Opera Funk”.
Earlier this month Emma performed at the closing ceremony of USC’s Relay for Life event and last weekend she was at Cooroy’s Fusion Festival.
