A Grammy-nominated singer with an international following is making western Connecticut their home.

Alfio Bonanno hails from Australia, but now calls Stamford home. The Grammy and Emmy-nominated crooner came to the United States 12 years ago, and can sing in six different languages.

"Music transcends all barriers, transcends all differences between countries, between languages," says Bonanno.

Bonanno is a believer in following your dreams -- just like his father did when he left Italy for Australia in 1956.

"It took him 34 days to get from Sicily to Australia," says Bonanno. "With his accordian in one hand and his suitcase in the other hand."

Bonanno is passionate about his music. He has even written a song for the great Luciano Pavarotti.

He says his goal is to use his music to make people "happy for a couple of hours."

Bonanno is performing at the Palace Theater in Stamford Saturday. He will also be part of Monday's Columbus Day Parade in New York City.