Name: Marco
Age: 6
Amber Service: Amber Music Awards
Instrument: Percussion
6 year-old* Marco loves music. He was born with bilateral retinoblastoma, which was diagnosed when he was six weeks old. Marco underwent several chemotherapy treatments for the first two years of his life, which saved his eyes and restored some of his vision. He is now severely vision-impaired.
Marco is an Amber Music Award recipient, receiving funds for drumming lessons with his teacher, Alberto.
Musical engagement can not only help with physical development, but it can also improve a sense of well-being and enjoyment. ‘Making music is funny!’ says Marco. ‘I enjoy using different percussion all the time with Alberto.’
Marco’s mother, Anna, reports that Marco’s lessons are so engaging that ‘sometimes the whole family joins in!’
“I love drumming because I like music, concerts and funky music. I like Alberto because he is my friend”. Marco
Reflecting on his time working with Marco, Alberto says, ‘Teaching Marco for the last two years has been a pleasure – his family are very welcoming. Marco is gifted musically and has an excellent sense of rhythm. He enjoys playing musical games with percussion instruments – he always wants to be the leader!
It’s wonderful to hear of the musical bond Marco shares with Alberto, and the young talent that is being nurtured.
*Age correct at time of publishing
To support other children like Marco on their musical journey, please donate to The Amber Trust. Your support enables us to provide music opportunities to vision impaired children across the UK, including those with additional needs.