Derek Paravicini - In the Key of Genius

Born blind, autistic and with severe learning difficulties, Derek is a world renowned pianist and one of the greatest musical minds of his generation. A wonderfully creative improviser, he possesses the mind-blowing ability to play anything that he hears and he can effortlessly switch style and key, transforming your favourite pieces on the fly. He has performed twice at Buckingham Palace and in 2011, Derek played ‘Rhapsody in Blue’ and a piano concerto written specially for him, at London’s Queen Elizabeth Hall. He loves nothing more than connecting with people via his music and enjoys taking requests.

Derek regularly works with the charity Music for Autism, going into schools for children with autism and delivering fun and interactive concerts. He will be providing a workshop for students in Bedales Prep before performing at the Senior school later in the evening. We are thrilled to welcome Derek to Bedales.