"The human iPod“, “The Musical Genius”, “Human jukebox”, “Pianist or Superhuman” and so on…Yes all these numerous titles refer to an extraordinarily talented pianist Derek Paravicini. Born with the gift of music and an amazing musical memory, he has many thouands of pieces of music in his repertoire. Derek never looked back after performing for first time in Tooting Leisure center at age of seven. At age 9, he gave his first major concert at the Barbican Halls in London with the Royal Philharmonic Pops Orchestra. His delightful personality and great improvising skill have enabled him to give concerts in venues across England, Europe and the United States. Thank you Derek and Kelly Smith for your time. Derek your interview will inspire all our brave superheroes and their families.

How would your musical journey have been different if you had not heard Mr. Adam Ockelford playing the piano during your first visit to the Linden Lodge School for the Blind?D:  I was lucky to meet Adam when I was at Linden Lodge. He gave me lessons and took me out.
K: When Derek first met Adam, his playing style was very chaotic. Adam recognised that Derek had amazing musicianship and potential and worked very hard with him for many years, to iron out his technique, teach him new things and enable him to play in the way that he does now. Without Adam's dedication and skill as a teacher, Derek would almost certainly not be the player he is today.

Which musicians do you admire? With whom would you like to perform on stage?D: I admire Art Tatum, George Shearing, Jerome Kern, Bill Evans - all the great jazz pianists really! I would love to perform on stage with Stevie Wonder!

Nature is filled with wonderful sounds. Have you ever thought of “perfect pitching” those sounds?D: When I hear birds sing, I could play them on the piano!
K: Derek has such a musical ear, that he hears the notes in everyday sounds, including nature!

What are the different types of genres that you like to play? Which one is your favorite and why?D: My favourite style to play is jazz music! I like improvising and making harmonies. I also like to play classical music, rock and roll, Christmas music and songs from musicals.

Do you think practice makes the man perfect? If yes, how long do you usually have to practice before concerts?D: Yes practise makes perfect! I practise a lot.
K: If Derek is learning a new piece of music, it can take anything from 5 minutes to 5 months to learn, depending on the length and complexity of the piece.

hat do you like to do for fun?D: I like to play the piano for fun! I also like listening to music, going out for food and drink and watching a movie or going to the theatre.

What are your other hobbies?D: I like aromatherapy, yoga and the gym!

How can music play an important role for our special children?D: Music makes people feel happy. Music has a wonderful way of reaching people in a way that nothing else can. It is accessible to everyone - it is multi-sensory, non verbal and motivational.
K:  Derek's playing seems to really reach out to children with special needs and he does a lot of work, playing in concerts for children with a wide range of disabilities.

Any special message for our community?D: Be yourself and work hard at whatever it is you enjoy doing!