Derek Paravacini suffers from severe intellectual disabilities which make performing even the simplest daily tasks seem daunting. But put him in front of piano and Derek really comes alive.
While most of his brain struggles, it seems all his music-playing neurons are intact. His amazing talent sees him recalling any music he’s ever heard and reproducing it on the keys.
Astoundingly he can even play any piece in the style of musical greats like Scott Joplin and Dave Brubeck. It’s incredible to hear him making “My Favorite Things” into a ragtime tune.
There’s sadly an element of performing monkey to this 60 Minutes story, but it’s hard not to marvel at this man’s extraordinary gift.
