William Martinez

William Martinez is a keynote speaker, actor, and singer whose work is rooted in performance, advocacy, and education. As a child of deaf adults (CODA), Martinez brings a personal perspective to his work, drawing on his background to promote American Sign Language (ASL), belonging, and the role of education in personal transformation.

Martinez earned a bachelor's degree in musical theatre from the University of Northern Colorado before relocating to Los Angeles to pursue acting and singing. He has developed a platform that highlights the importance of ASL and inclusive education, particularly through his signature presentation, "SIGNing The Song." This presentation tells the story of a boy raised in a deaf household with limited exposure to television, radio, or movies, and how, with the support of his parents and an influential music teacher, he discovered his voice through music.

Martinez has toured the educational market with presentations such as "SIGNing the Song: You Have Changed My Life" and "The Power of Belonging." These programs combine ASL and music to encourage teachers to recognize the impact they have on students, sharing his experiences growing up in a deaf household and the significant influence of a dedicated teacher.

"SIGNing the Song: You Have Changed My Life" serves as the DVD companion to the educational book "The First Days of School: How to Become an Effective Teacher" by Harry and Rosemary Wong. The DVD has received multiple awards, including two Telly Awards for Motivational Non-Broadcast Video and several AVA Digital Awards, such as the platinum award for On-Camera Talent. The theatrical version of "SIGNing The Song" has also received recognition, including a Broadway World Award.

As a stage performer, Martinez has appeared in productions including "Hunchback of Notre Dame" at Sacramento Music Circus and La Mirada Performing Arts Center, "Parade," "Blood Brothers," "High Fidelity," "Titanic" with Musical Theatre Guild, "Big River" at Taper, and "Oliver!" at Deaf West Theatre. He has toured nationally with "Thank You for The Music: A Modern Tribute to ABBA" and performed as lead male singer on Silversea Cruises, showcasing opera, Broadway, pop, and jazz styles alongside "SIGNing the Song."

Martinez has performed at award shows, honor galas, and charity events, including Paul Newman's SeriousFun for children, where he sang with Carol King, Michael Keaton, and Natalie Cole. His work also includes film, television, and voiceover roles, as well as serving as a backup singer for Kristin Chenoweth in Los Angeles.

Martinez supports the community by performing for elementary school students with Musical Theatre West, Musical Theatre Guild, and New West Symphony, and is a member of Actors Equity. He advocates for the integration of ASL in classrooms as an effective communication tool for teachers and students. On stage, on screen, or at the podium, Martinez continues to use his voice and hands to engage audiences in conversations about accessibility, inclusion, and the power of education.