I won the first year I entered, and a return performance is always doubly gratifying. I know that if I didn 't have my music, I wouldn't have much of anything. After my accident,it took me awhile to realize after my accident that I could still play piano. The music has helped me to endure. I play to calm myself, motivate myself and relieve tension.
Music runs the gamut of emotions.
Winning and being here in Washington, D.C., to perform shows that, disabled or not, male and female alike can still have their pride, honor and determination to carry on with a happy and successful life. I 've never received such a special award in all my years as a musician. Music has always been a very positive and therapeutic force for me - opening doors to travel and the chance to make new friends, and adding the enriching effect of taking on new challenges. Through the years, music has added a special dimension to my life,allowing me to appreciate all the great music from classical to pop.