​​​Recognizing his musical talent at a young age, Giovanni Lamanna's mother enrolled him in lessons and encouraged him to follow his passion despite her struggles battling life-threatening systemic mastocytosis. Through her love and support, he found his desire to become the first in his family to graduate college. Giovanni completed his bachelor’s in music education in spring 2014 at Sonoma State University with a 3.61 GPA and will continue his education in the credential program at Sonoma State beginning fall 2014.

Giovanni discovered a passion for teaching while he was giving free guitar lessons to foster youth. He saw how the children came alive during their lessons. He also uses music to fundraise for the Mastocytosis Society through performances and sales of his original song about the disease. At Sonoma State, Giovanni works as an usher during performances in the Green Music Center and also actively participates in the organization of various chorus and band festivals. In addition to teaching, Giovanni hopes to eventually obtain his master's degree and doctorate in music.​