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Artist
Derek Paravicini
6+ albums
pianoClassicalacousticinstrumentalKlassische Musik
about
Derek(b 1980), was born premature, at 25 weeks, and weighing just over half a kilogram. As a result of the oxygen therapy required to save his life, Derek lost his sight, and his development was affected too. It later became apparent that he had severe learning difficulties. However, he soon acquired a fascination for music and sound, and, by the age of four, had taught himself to play a large number of pieces on the piano, of some melodic and harmonic complexity (such as 'Smoke Gets in your Eyes'). Almost inevitably, with no visual models to guide him, his technique was chaotic, and even his elbows would frequently be pressed into service, as he strove to reach intervals beyond the span of his tiny hands! At this time, his enormous potential was recognised by Adam Ockelford, then music teacher at Linden Lodge School for the Blind in London. In due course, weekly and then daily lessons were arranged, in an extensive programme of tuition that was to last for several years. Painstakingly (through physical demonstration and imitation) Derek acquired the foundations of technique that were necessary for him to move forward. His natural affinity for jazz, pop and light music soon became evident; together with his improvisatory talents, ability to play in any key, and flair for performing in public! Derek's first major concert was at the Barbican Halls in London, when he was just 9 (in 1989). He played jazz with the Royal Philharmonic Pops Orchestra. Numerous national and regional
top songs
1
The Entertainer
1,1672It's Only a Paper Moon
3813Over the Rainbow
3574Tea For Two
3325Ain't Misbehavin'
2676When the Sun Goes Down
2627Buddy Bolden's Blues (i Thought I Heard Buddy Bolden Say)
2458Fish Gotta Swim Birds Gotta Fly (can't Help Lovin' Dat Man)
2379My Very Good Friend the Milkman
17110Send in the Clowns
166