Singer, Claire Khodara, Releases Modern Lullaby Album For Autism Awareness

Claire Khodara, former soprano soloist for two Vatican popes, American Idol contestant, and founder of StarRock Productions, releases Modern Lullaby album in support of Autism Awareness and Acceptance today.

Modern Lullaby is a deeply personal project for the mother of three as her firstborn, Winston, has autism spectrum disorder and the realization of the lack of understanding and support within, and for, the world of Autism compelled her to become a passionate Autism advocate.

The album was the creative result of a moment in Khodara’s life where illness, including her son being on the spectrum, was a major theme in her family. In 2021, her mother was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer that inspired Khodara to make the album, which for her is a creative seam sewn between herself, her mother, and to the experience of being a mother. It manifests in what the artist describes as an “outpouring of love” through this album designed for both parents and children to enjoy.

Khodara, who trained at Accademia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia in Rome and studied classical opera under renowned Italian soprano and opera director Renata Scotto, is known for a voice which is soulful and full of power. For this album, she compiled her family’s favorite pop songs and covered them as lullaby versions which include Beyonce’s Halo, Like a Prayer, and Empire State of Mind. She also wrote an original song titled There You Are and on the song Twinkle-Wonderful World Winston sings backup. This is a massive milestone for the boy, age 5, who only began to speak 2 years ago.

“People are distracted and parents are busier than ever, holding down jobs and managing households. My goal in creating Modern Lullaby is to create a moment in the day of natural connection and peace between parents and children,” explains Khodara. “Classic lullabies felt less relevant for the fast paced world we live in, so recreating my version of the covers help make the songs relatable to parents as much children. My album helps bridge an experience between them and make bedtime, the last hour of the day, more easeful.”

The proceeds of the album sales will be donated to Easterseals. The non-for-profit has been in operation for over 100 years and works toward improving and enhancing the quality of life for disabled members of society through the expansion of educational programs, employment opportunities, and access to healthcare. Easterseals is also a leader in providing essential services and support for the autistic including providing of therapies which increase the skills of autistic individuals and those with other developmental disabilities.

Claire Khodara’s Modern Lullaby album is available to stream or download here on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and others.