Jacob Velazquez Interview

Talented Pianist Boy - Focused on capabilities instead of disabilities

Wishes do come true! 8 year old Jacob wished to meet his favorite star Talyor Swift and a miracle happened. Jacob got to meet with Taylor Swift. Not only is this young talented pianist fortunate enough to work with Miami-based producer Hal Batt for his debut album “Jacob” but he has also appeared on numerous TV shows like "Good Morning America". Jacob is lucky to have parents like Tina and Willie who saw Jacob’s excellent talent and focused on Jacob’s capabilities instead of his disability. He was recently admitted to the National Musicians Guild after performing ten classical music pieces from memory. Hats off to Jacob who continued with his journey of learning Piano instead of stepping back after hearing news about his autism. Jacob is definitely setting a unique example with his talent and hard work. Let’s hope his next wish will happen soon to live perform on stage with Taylor Swift and Yanni …..

The interview with Jacob Velazquez was conducted by Uplifting Voices in November 2015. More Info


Are you excited about your debut album “Jacob”? Do you want to share any funny moment while you were working with Hal S. Batt?J: Yes I am! I had so much fun recording it!. When I first started recording my album I was only 6 years old and my feet didn't reach the floor and I would swing my feet while I was playing. We would have to do retakes sometimes because the mic picked up my feet kicking the piano!


How did you feel when you met Taylor Swift?J: I felt very excited and happy when I met Taylor Swift! She gave me a hug told me that she was going to be nervous playing the piano on stage since I would be watching.



Who would you like to perform with on stage?J: Taylor Swift and Yanni


What is the first tune you played in piano?J: The first song I played at a competition was Minuet by Bach.


Do you practice every day? If yes how long do you practice?J: I take lessons twice per week for one hour each and then maybe 3 other days I will practice about 20 minutes.


What are your other hobbies?J: I love recording music in the recording studio. I also love playing the Nintendo 3 DS & Wii U, swimming, drawing, coloring, & writing, going to school, and watching Taylor Swift & Wii U videos on YouTube.


What is your favorite place to visit?J: Disney world!!


What do you like to do when you are with your friends?J: I like to play video games and tag and going to birthday parties & the playground with my friends


What is your favorite dessert?J: Ice cream, cookies, cake, and cupcakes.


Any special message for our community?JIf you dream of something that you really want, don't give up on it until it comes true!

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