YANNIS DRUMMER CHARLIE ADAMS LAUCHES DVD - LIFES JOURNEY THROUGH MUSIC, FAMILY & AUTISM Part of proceeds to benefit Autism Society

Charlie Adams, Yanni's drummer for over 20 years, today unveiled his latest DVD project, "Charlie Adams, Stories and Solos: Life's Journey Through Music, Family and Autism," at the Autism Society of America (ASA) 35th Annual Conference in Seattle.

SEATTLE, WA (PRWEB) July 7, 2004 -- Charlie Adams, Yanni's drummer for over 20 years, today unveiled his latest DVD project, "Charlie Adams, Stories and Solos: Life's Journey Through Music, Family and Autism," at the Autism Society of America (ASA) 35th Annual Conference in Seattle. Mr. Adams will donate part of the proceeds of this DVD to the ASA, the oldest and largest grassroots organization within the autism community, to help fund programs that will increase autism awareness.

The DVD compiles the story of Charlie Adams from childhood to the present. You'll see never-before seen videos, including clips from Charlie and Yanni's rock-n-roll band, Chameleon. In addition to the incredible drum solos and other concert footage, Charlie shares his personal story of having four children -- including two autistic young boys -- and his family's struggles and hopes for them and for the autism community.

"I hope people will find this DVD entertaining, but most of all I wish, that by sharing our story of how autism has affected our lives and the challenges that come with raising autistic children, it will not only spread awareness of autism but help others realize that they are not alone," says Charlie.

Charlie and his wife, Andrea, will continue to support the ASA by participating in a number of ASA events, including the kick-off of the ASA's 2004 Annual Convention, July 7-11, in Seattle and the 2005 ASA Annual Convention in their home town, Nashville, TN.

"We are grateful to Charlie and Andrea for their selfless efforts to support the Autism Society of America and for helping to spread the word about this complex disorder that affects an estimated 1.5 million Americans today. Charlie is a true hero, and we will be honoring him at our Evening of Champions" event on July 8, 2004, in Seattle," ASA President Rob Beck said.

About Charlie Adams
Charlie is one of the world's best and most recognized drummers. He has been with Yanni for over 20 years and their CD's have gone platinum and double platinum. "Live at the Acropolis" sold over 8 million copies and the video set pledge drive records when played on PBS. Charlie is currently preparing for Yanni's Ethnicity 2004/2005 tour. For more information about Charlie, visit http://www.charlieadams.com

About ASA
For more than three decades the ASA has been acknowledged as the leading source of education, information and referral about autism and has been the leader in advocacy and legislation initiatives. Today, over 50,000 members and supporters are connected through a working network of over 200 chapters in nearly every state. For more information, please visit http://www.autism-society.org