We are delighted that Chapman’s family have written such a lovely piece to go with Chapman’s Musical Moment of 2022! Without further ado, we hand over to Chapman’s family.
When it comes to Chapman’s ‘Musical Moments of 2022’, it has to be his piano solo recital debut moment. The recital was held at Westminster Music Library on the 31st of Aug 2022.
Why have you selected this Musical Moment to share?
Chapman has participated in many different concerts and performances, but this is his first personal recital. The performance took place in a historic building where Sir Isaac Newton once lived.
Chapman received great feedback from the audience. Everyone was so proud of him! Even his previous music school (Haw Par Music) back in Hong Kong made a post on their social media to cheer on their young alumni.
How did Chapman feel during this moment?
This opportunity boosted Chapman’s confidence hugely. Before this recital, Chapman had never attempted a performance of over 10 minutes in length. But he was determined, and after a month of practicing, he managed to put on a 30 mins show.
A show of this length requires a lot of memorising as Chapman cannot see, not to mention the aspect of his additional learning difficulties. But he did it! We know that he was hugely satisfied with his accomplishment. If you look at his smiling picture at the end of the video clip, you can tell how happy he was!
Do you have any reflections on the last year of music-making?
In the past 12 months, Chapman has grown and improved a lot after we moved to the UK exactly one year ago. We felt like we did something right for him in his music aspirations, despite all the obstacles. We think we made the right choice moving to the UK because the inclusiveness and music opportunities are much wider here.
Why does Chapman enjoy music?
Apart from blindness, Chapman also suffers from a speech disorder and learning difficulties. Music has become his language. Through music, he can share his world with others, without saying a word. We knew he enjoyed music when he was 2-3 years old. He would always turn public announcements or background sounds into some sort of musical rhythm.
At the age of 5, he taught himself to play “It’s a Small World” on a toy piano after we took him to Disneyland. Fast forward to today, he is already preparing for his performance grade examination.
How has The Amber Trust helped Chapman in his musical journey?
Amber plays a very important role in Chapman’s musical journey, and it makes him less lonely in the process. As parents, Amber gave us the drive and hope when seeing so many young talents who can overcome all sorts of obstacles and embrace what they love. We find this truly inspiring.
Most importantly, the music lesson support he gets from The Amber Trust ensures he has suitable music training that will pave the way for his future.
Someone once said “If you give a man a fish, you feed him for a day. If you teach a man to fish, you feed him for a lifetime.” This is exactly what The Amber Trust does to our young talents.
Thank you Amber Trust!