There is a time and place for debates about politics and religion. This is neither one of them. Just appreciate this man and the fact that he's a musician with abilities far above most.
Heartwarming, all lives are a mystery and Derek is perhaps a key to the great beauty within that most of us only glimpse in ourselves. Thank you 60 minutes.
It's not about God or religion. It's about how little we know and understand about the universe and how amazing and "magical" (to put it simply) the universe is.
@stoleaccount If God is omnipotent he would have given him both his sight and his gift because there is no reason at all to make him suffer, which would make God a cruel being. How about considering that there is no God and that what happened to Derek is just a biological flaw and that his gift simply may or may not be a consequence of that? God is a man-made concept created to solve the inability of humans to explain reality with reason
@DarkRiver756 Really annoys me when people give the credit to God rather than the person, this guy is amazing on his own accord and through his own struggle.
I always feel as though, americans, when interviewing seem to slightly mock the person. I noticed it when she started asking him basic questions like holding up three fingers which she already knew he was unable to do so. I felt she could have found other ways less condescending to show the extent of his disabilities. Nonetheless this video does show that anyone can achieve anything no matter what their circumstances.
It's kind of obnoxious how they say he isn't thinking when he is taking requests and playing them in a random key in a random style. How do they know?
By the looks of it, Derek has autism which is basically lack of function of the brain (mainly in social area) and which is unique for people with like autism, aspergers etc you can focus the brain to something, for example Derek has unique talents in piano.
I believe humanity (scientists) will use the evidence of savants in some evolutionary breakthrough where we will be able to access these abilities and more without any of the perceived negatives.
They say that when the brain is not fully formed or damaged, it can rewire itself and give you savant-level abilities like this. The major drawback with most savants like this is that they are extremely deficient in other areas, mostly the ones we all take for granted.
There is someone that I know who is also mentally handicapped, (don't know if that's the PC way of saying that or not D:) and he remembers every person he meets phone number by memory, and if asked he can state the numbers of anyone he knows both forwards and backwards.
@reyguel God didn't do shit, dunno if you listened to the documentary at all (but since your religious to begin with I can only assume that your ignorant from the start) but he struggled to achieve his talent.
@XelOfficial : its amazing how ignorant you can be. Apparently you don't believe in God or the fact the He gives gifts of varying degrees to EVERYONE. He had to develope his talent. Thats not struggling. Everybody don't have the gift to play like he does. Get it right.
He has his own youtube page under derekparavicini and he's already uploaded a few piano covers, including a recent cover of Michael Jackson's "Thriller." Check it out and subscribe!
@irenetom9440 it could be for a variety of reasons. Because he can't see, the sunglasses are to protect his eyes since he wouldn't know when to squint when he is out in the sunlight (to keep the tissue in the eye from getting damaged). Another reason might be because of people's reactions, to prevent them from staring at him or making him feel self-conscious in public...Or it might be for a completely different reason.
"Professing to be wise they became fools" Derek is truly a magnificent work of God's wonders. God bless him and those of you who do not recognize that God is the center of all good things. zcrawford81 it's a good thing for you that God does not believe in atheists :)
Derek I wish you can read this and comprehend how inspring u were to me tonight! Cheers to you and to all the mentally challenged people out there! Creativity has no limits :)
God Gave him those abilities... its not religion... its reality, and a relationship. I know cuz i've exprienced this first hand, and i used to be like you dudes, Athiest-like, but i've now seen too many miracles to prove you wrong about God
@CaramelMarshmallow 3 - Derek is the gift, not just his talent. Like others you see the physical disablilities and not the incredible person he is. Please don't speak on subjects that you clearly know nothing about - yes I am referring to God. It would be like me talking about your family whom I know nothing about... well that would make me an idiot? Get the picture. God shows His power through weakness. Focus on the gift and not the disabilities and you might actually see the Divine!
I can't fathom why people insist on arguing about what God did, or didn't do, when defining our existence. Derek has many gifts! He is an exceptionally talented, extremely happy young man who is able to reach out from his life and bring joy to so many people, including many who have even less than himself. He's an extraordinary individual who, in his own unique way, makes this world a better place. As far as I'm concerned, the only people who are "handicapped" are those who can't recognize that.
OK, think of all the brainpower that goes into visual processing, into social grey-area situations, remembering "right" and "left", processing financial worth and proper speech, that is used to provide the proper pronunciation and grammar for every language that is spoken in each person. Now: apply that to speaking through music.
Derek's is a specialist mind, not a generalist. As a specialist, he is using his speciality to assist others. Otherwise, how very lonely it would be for him!
I retract the part of my previous comment where I effectively labeled all religious people brainless. It's not all of you. Just the really mouthy ones are. But as I stated previously, this is not a miracle of a god or gods. That's the bottom line. At most, it's a miracle of science, but miracles really don't exist. There's an explanation for this, as there is everything. We just don't know what it is yet.
thing is, the average human can only focus up to around 10% of their brain activity on any one thing. he can focus so much more on his playing because he is unable to do much else. therefore, he is a genius of memorization and playing.
Unfortunately some folks' reaction to anything and everything carries a "glory to god" connection. The sad part about this is not their faith, it's that some of us find such self assurance offensive. And those pushing their religious faith are often unable to understand that. We believe what we were raised to believe, and that's fine. It's attempts at compelling others to change beliefs that have so often caused wars, and those are the saddest of all.
Derek is an instrument of God. He is a living testament to a loving God. His disability results from a premature birth, and his brain has developed to process sound to a degree that we would never experience. The normal brain receives 80% of its information from visuals. Derek's brain has been freed up from processing visuals, and audio processing of sound has naturally developed to a high degree that we would never experience. Who's normal? Derek is supernaturally normal.
@sheenaL33 Please tell me WTF *isn't* an instrument of God? Because The Creator's glory is EVERYWHERE, so a statement such as yours is meaningless. The very existence of a pebble is a fookin' MIRACLE equal to Derek's existence.
The brain has extra-ordinary ways of rerouting power in order for survival, which happens with severe drinking. I wonder if the brain re-routes power into mathematical or piano-playing (for lack of the actual brain part), when it lacks in the cognitive or social parts?
@Jennymaysmith Hi, yes we surely are created by God for a special purpose in this life. Our purpose in life is preordained by Dearest Creator before we are even born. Even a disability such as blindness, in the long run, generally turns out to be a blessing in disguise. The God given gift of Musical Talent that Derek Paravicini has clearly shows this.
I feel simply elated, transformed and grateful because this universe gives us presents in strange wrapping. Perhaps, it is time for humanity to communicate with sounds rather than words.
Wonderful talent, amazing, and its great that he loves to meet people and engage with them, good luck to him, he has a lot to cope with, with no sight..etc...
i'd really like to know what goes on in this mans head. to be able to fully understand and speak english, and have extreme natural talent, but not understanding a concept such as "three fingers" amazes me
How could an immaterialist ever resist their learned habit of claiming that Derek's abilities are a gift from a supernatural entity. If an immaterialist ever did resist claiming that, then their act of resisting this nonsensical & learned claim would be a true "miracle." Derek is truly a passionate and masterful musician, who also has to manage with his physical and mental challenges.
Maybe God had something in mind that eludes us! He may be flawed, but God gave him an immense talent to make up for it! And simply mentioning God has nothing to do with religion - it's merely acknowledging Derek's creator! He definitely looks happy to me! God bless and keep Derek!!
This guy is definately amazing! I wish him the very best. He's a beautiful person.. As well as his other disabilities he shows all the signs of Classic Autism. He's had many hurdles to cross in life but luckily also has this incredible talent. It's not uncommon for autistic people to have a talent, some do and some don't. I have an autistic son. He has talent for the sciences and computers but also has signif difficulties. Hopefully one day 'autistics' won't be seen as disabled just accepted...
God is all things..and those that don't see it will be below us all on judgement day...He is the one that give us our talents...and I do have a brain ...you two must not...
Nature i.e. premature birth caused his mental situation. God does not pre-decide what we are or become. Nature takes it course along with environment.
Awe inspiring..... good onya Derek you're the best !! - and kudos for all around him who support him and love him for what he is.... He HAS the connection to the musical spheres of creation.....
Why does this have to be about God? It's the wonders of the human brain, don't bring religion into it. This is why people with a brain don't respect religion. It has to be made the center of everything by mindless zealots.
@zcrawford81 Excuse me? This is why people with a brain don't respect religion? Well, who died and made YOU queen of the fucking universe? I happen to have a brain (which I received from God) and I respect religion. Who are you to judge someone for that? Last I heard this was a free country and everyone is entitled to his/her opinion. You can disagree if you want, but you certainly have no right to call people names or disrespect them..
@zcrawford81 because God's glory is shown in the weakness. If derekhad been normal this would not have been quite as fantastic as it is. Watching this I could only gasp in awe at God's greatness.
Anyone who chooses to use his or her brain will realize that Derek has a gift that can only come from God. Why God created him in this unique way will never be known, but the only response to have to this story is, WOW!!!!!!
@zcrawford81 How have you survived as long as you have being so closed minded? Seriously? That's unbelievable that you could be this way. I'm not a deeply religious person but I have VERY deep respect for the idea and you are making yourself look very stupid with comments like this.
@zcrawford81 Either it is about God or it is about chaos. Those with a brain do not disrespect the religion of others. Everyone is religious (Read "The Varieties of Religious Experiences" by the atheist philosopher William James-may help you to be less narrow minded) it is just a choice of organized or disorganized, or to the extent to which your religion pervades your life...
This comment has received too many negative votesshow
To God be the glory! What an astounding miracle with his God given ability. Thank you so much for sharing this wonderful talent with us Derek! To whom much is given...much is required.
So what do you suppose Derek would say if you ask him if he was happy? He seems like a happy guy to me. Do you think that having the same senses as you do are a requirement for living?
I would venture to say that he can outhink you, zcrawford and me put together. I'd also be willing to bet that he has more insight than any dozen "normal" people.
I cannot spot a single handicap. For the gifts he is providing to the world, I would be honored to tie that guys shoes.
@CaramelMarshmallow There are plenty of people who are neither mentally handicpped nor blind who are unhappy and unfulfilled. This guy is floating in a sea of love, the greatest gift of all. Does he look unhappy to you ?
@CaramelMarshmallow Even though he's blind and handy, his life is better than mine, and im perfectly great. His life is like a dream to most people. THerefore, God really does care about him
I want to invite you to ask Derek's parents if he's a burden and sad thing to watch, or rather a gift which they enjoy and smile whenever they see him play amazingly. I am not saying God should be incorporated to everything (although that might be true), but I want to state that God does love him, giving him this great gift probably very few in the world can even mimik what he can do. I bet he want to show the world that this man is not to be ignored but to be respected
@rgouette I associate nothing with god because god isn't real. We made him up. And get over your serious arrogance in think you have the slightest idea of what a creator would be about. If there is some form of creator (certainly NOT the god of our fictitious bible) we couldn't POSSIBLY understand such a being. Stop living the lie.
@rgouette Very lame comeback. You have nothing you CAN say. Go bang your bible. Someday the world will wise up to the whole religion money making scam. What a shame you are only making it worse for the world with your beliefs.
@Michael55443 You are right, a real God cant be figured, that is why you haven't. If you would stop pretending you have you will see Him in His creation, even His grace in you because no matter how much you hate Him, he still loves you.
@Maribel1944 Keep your fairy tales to yourself. Wake up and live in the real world. I hate when you religious nuts claim to have some knowledge that the rest of the world can't understand. You are fooling yourself! If god existed, he would surely not create someone as stupid as you.
Derek is a living miracle. A truly inspirational story. Talent like this is far and few between. I congratulate Derek and his teacher. May they work together for many years to come.
When I was doing my practicum observation for my music education degree I got to meet a 1st grader who is like Derek. You don't even know the emotions you will have watching this video and seeing it in real life...in the real life one, it grabs your heart and never lets go...it is so moving
How incredible! Anyone who has ever played any instrument knows what a true talent this man has. Thank goodness he was "discovered" and nurtured. When God takes away one ability he often bestows another one. May God continue to bless Derek.
I mean to say... what is it about the our brains that makes us so limited? Why does it take being a savant to be able to easily do amazing things like this? Granted, they aren't on easy street by any means. But my point is our brain limitations. Side note: I'd like to think this is what playing music will be like in Heaven.
This just goes to show you what the human brain is capable of. If only we can WILLING access this power and develop it as easily as he has? Remarkable. To me, this is what I imagine playing music will be like in Heaven.
What's the song at 02:20
marc137 4 days ago
@marc137
My favorite things from Sound of Music
MQnoob 2 days ago
@MQnoob thank you good sir
marc137 2 days ago
6:10 is the moment of Truth.
EditorThunderBay 4 days ago
He is, without a doubt, the most precious human being I have ever set eyes on. So talented. Words don't even describe.
kaboom96hockey19 5 days ago
Derek doesn't need words. His music speaks for itself.
WordsOfReverie 1 week ago
PPPPEEEEPPPPERRRRROOONNIIII NEEEEEWWWW YORK!
NathanielJohnMaynard 2 weeks ago 2
There is a time and place for debates about politics and religion. This is neither one of them. Just appreciate this man and the fact that he's a musician with abilities far above most.
PainInTheAssInternet 3 weeks ago
they talked to the teacher far too long
harrynelsonizkool 3 weeks ago
Heartwarming, all lives are a mystery and Derek is perhaps a key to the great beauty within that most of us only glimpse in ourselves. Thank you 60 minutes.
zerotestltd 3 weeks ago 2
How can anyone dislike this?
It's not about God or religion. It's about how little we know and understand about the universe and how amazing and "magical" (to put it simply) the universe is.
deenuabishek 1 month ago 6
He sounds like Doctor Who to me :)
sjeses 1 month ago
I laughed and cried while watching this video. I only wished there would less of the talking and more of Derek's music.
321Swapna 1 month ago 3
Simply amazing.
seehanth001 1 month ago in playlist Favorite videos
Matt Smith...?
Baks9 1 month ago
@Baks9 exactly what I thought when I watched this! Strange..
howgoyoufar 1 month ago in playlist Favorite videos
Bet you he cant do dragonforce on expert
ripndipp 1 month ago
@ripndipp haha!!
quailman8760 1 month ago in playlist Favorite videos
god gave him the ability to play the piano in exchange for his sight...
stoleaccount 1 month ago
@stoleaccount If God is omnipotent he would have given him both his sight and his gift because there is no reason at all to make him suffer, which would make God a cruel being. How about considering that there is no God and that what happened to Derek is just a biological flaw and that his gift simply may or may not be a consequence of that? God is a man-made concept created to solve the inability of humans to explain reality with reason
DarkRiver756 1 month ago 3
@DarkRiver756 Really annoys me when people give the credit to God rather than the person, this guy is amazing on his own accord and through his own struggle.
XelOfficial 1 month ago 2
@DarkRiver756 If you've no such talent then perhaps it is you and most of us who suffer. Or perhaps there really is balance in all things.
Vote4RonPaulLiberty 1 month ago
20 people are trying to be "that guy"
TheHappyShot 1 month ago
a genius at work
TheHappyShot 1 month ago
I always feel as though, americans, when interviewing seem to slightly mock the person. I noticed it when she started asking him basic questions like holding up three fingers which she already knew he was unable to do so. I felt she could have found other ways less condescending to show the extent of his disabilities. Nonetheless this video does show that anyone can achieve anything no matter what their circumstances.
BloodRunsThrough 1 month ago
he should be arrested by the sopa and pipa people lol
NibiruProductions 1 month ago
It's kind of obnoxious how they say he isn't thinking when he is taking requests and playing them in a random key in a random style. How do they know?
enunna 1 month ago
By the looks of it, Derek has autism which is basically lack of function of the brain (mainly in social area) and which is unique for people with like autism, aspergers etc you can focus the brain to something, for example Derek has unique talents in piano.
6buster 1 month ago
Derek, you're nine hundred and seven.
jerrmiahb 1 month ago
Anyone else think Derek looks just like Matt Smith, aka the 11th Doctor?
BlackRadioProject 1 month ago
savants are our retarded x men
miyor123 1 month ago 2
House made an episode of off this character.
Abteilol 1 month ago
I believe humanity (scientists) will use the evidence of savants in some evolutionary breakthrough where we will be able to access these abilities and more without any of the perceived negatives.
garym33 1 month ago 3
this is what happens when the royal family inbreeds
webbly 1 month ago
@webbly you are a cunt
Ligerzeronz 1 month ago
@Ligerzeronz you're awesome
ramalho09 1 month ago
@webbly People like you have a special place reserved in hell.
6buster 1 month ago
Dutchess of Cornhole**
fybpm 1 month ago
They say that when the brain is not fully formed or damaged, it can rewire itself and give you savant-level abilities like this. The major drawback with most savants like this is that they are extremely deficient in other areas, mostly the ones we all take for granted.
antiscian 1 month ago
9:45 "OOOU I LOVE THAT BEAT".
Stixnstonez49 1 month ago
"We say about music being the most universal communication. And I have no fear. Communicate with the future through sound."
ReflexEight 1 month ago
Amazing...
NewDrekSilver 1 month ago
Problem Stevie Wonder?
meeputube 1 month ago 4
Mr. Blue Sky, Csharp, dubstep GOGOGOGO!!!!
UberOcelot 1 month ago
I could do this blindfolded! oh wait...
KyleSpringer12 1 month ago 2
alright.....they guy with the onions has to FUCKING LEAVE!!!
DUHFUNKIEPURPLEHIPPO 1 month ago 4
@DUHFUNKIEPURPLEHIPPO NINJA
Zeuspwns 1 month ago
There is someone that I know who is also mentally handicapped, (don't know if that's the PC way of saying that or not D:) and he remembers every person he meets phone number by memory, and if asked he can state the numbers of anyone he knows both forwards and backwards.
imzurcboi 1 month ago
not to sound like an asshole but why are people like him kind of slow and awkward but can do stuff like this? Do we have an answer yet?
laxfan727 1 month ago
@laxfan727 yes lots of autistic or other disorder people have stuff like him.
qbizouard 1 month ago
who's cutting onions?!!!!!
Goontron 1 month ago
Record as many songs as he can conceive of!
privatepanik 1 month ago
superhuman
foshouken 1 month ago
His British accent makes him sound smart, anyway.
jsndacruz 1 month ago 29
looks like john mayer
WhereAreMyChucks 1 month ago
This is amazing.
RandomDetritus 1 month ago
Well, I sure HOPE God has a sense of humor -- or I'm in deep trouble!
AnjuliMcDonald 1 month ago
God doesn't have a sense of humour and never makes a mistake! Beautiful…Beautiful Noise! xo
TheMissShevy 1 month ago
God must have sense of humour ,when he make a mistake he over compensates
davidiansmithson 2 months ago
This guy is amazing to say the least. Although he is blind, God gave him an extraordinary gift . Wow!
reyguel 2 months ago
@reyguel God didn't do shit, dunno if you listened to the documentary at all (but since your religious to begin with I can only assume that your ignorant from the start) but he struggled to achieve his talent.
XelOfficial 1 month ago
@XelOfficial : its amazing how ignorant you can be. Apparently you don't believe in God or the fact the He gives gifts of varying degrees to EVERYONE. He had to develope his talent. Thats not struggling. Everybody don't have the gift to play like he does. Get it right.
reyguel 1 month ago
@XelOfficial Finally, someone who feels the same way I do. All people that are religious are blind to reasoning.
prohacker305 1 month ago
@XelOfficial you're>your... ignorant.
92jaminton 3 weeks ago
If you are interested in young Derek - but would like to see a real documentary - look for 'extraordinary people the musical genius'
ALIYASEXYGIRLNUMBER1 3 months ago
asi me yamo yo
Thefuryspeed100 3 months ago
how can 17 people give this a thumbs down??
cootiebug96 3 months ago
Really Blessed , Thank you Lord for You Love for Derek..
bahdousheh 3 months ago
He has his own youtube page under derekparavicini and he's already uploaded a few piano covers, including a recent cover of Michael Jackson's "Thriller." Check it out and subscribe!
alika207 3 months ago
If Derek can do it... so could we boys and girls!
ludwigvf 4 months ago
@ludwigvf what?
you could be declared a 'musical savant?'
ALIYASEXYGIRLNUMBER1 3 months ago
He reminds me of the The Doctor.
5678tron 4 months ago
What does religion have to do with God. This is all about God...but not about religion at all.
banjosqueezebox 4 months ago
Why does he have to wear glasses when he is blind? What does it help him with?
irenetom9440 4 months ago
@irenetom9440 it could be for a variety of reasons. Because he can't see, the sunglasses are to protect his eyes since he wouldn't know when to squint when he is out in the sunlight (to keep the tissue in the eye from getting damaged). Another reason might be because of people's reactions, to prevent them from staring at him or making him feel self-conscious in public...Or it might be for a completely different reason.
cougargirl2009 4 months ago
I honestly cried when he said "I don't know how old I am no......."
D:
domochris69 4 months ago 41
@domochris69 I thought it was beautiful.
Vote4RonPaulLiberty 1 month ago
He's a sweet man, made me laugh when he talked about pizzas.
eryberrie 4 months ago
Whether you believe in God or not, Derek is proof that HE believes in every one of us..
TheDwork1 5 months ago
@TheDwork1 That makes no sense what so ever
adampb23 1 month ago
"Professing to be wise they became fools" Derek is truly a magnificent work of God's wonders. God bless him and those of you who do not recognize that God is the center of all good things. zcrawford81 it's a good thing for you that God does not believe in atheists :)
btorngren 5 months ago
This has been flagged as spam show
Derek I wish you can read this and comprehend how inspring u were to me tonight! Cheers to you and to all the mentally challenged people out there! Creativity has no limits :)
spectatorness87 5 months ago
Comment removed
spectatorness87 5 months ago
14 NEGATIVE people. What a gift he has and that is just wonderful!!!!
11301920 5 months ago
Thanks for inspiring me Dereck
happygirlme20 5 months ago
Thank you for inspiring me, Derek :)
nidnidya 5 months ago
my, my zcrawford81, you certainly are a happy person. What can you do that is wonderful?
coasttocoastone 5 months ago
Comment removed
CheesemanDebby123 5 months ago
His accent is awesome :D
o0hotoko0o 5 months ago
Remind anyone of Bethoven? Deaf but genius?
PunkDonigirl 5 months ago
God Gave him those abilities... its not religion... its reality, and a relationship. I know cuz i've exprienced this first hand, and i used to be like you dudes, Athiest-like, but i've now seen too many miracles to prove you wrong about God
kennathecougar135 5 months ago
Bad things happen (Derek being blind and mentally handicapped) so that God's glory can be shown (his talent)
nach0131 5 months ago
Absolutely amazing and incredible!
Beasterdamus 6 months ago
@CaramelMarshmallow 3 - Derek is the gift, not just his talent. Like others you see the physical disablilities and not the incredible person he is. Please don't speak on subjects that you clearly know nothing about - yes I am referring to God. It would be like me talking about your family whom I know nothing about... well that would make me an idiot? Get the picture. God shows His power through weakness. Focus on the gift and not the disabilities and you might actually see the Divine!
wdlee 6 months ago
I can't fathom why people insist on arguing about what God did, or didn't do, when defining our existence. Derek has many gifts! He is an exceptionally talented, extremely happy young man who is able to reach out from his life and bring joy to so many people, including many who have even less than himself. He's an extraordinary individual who, in his own unique way, makes this world a better place. As far as I'm concerned, the only people who are "handicapped" are those who can't recognize that.
Jammer76010 6 months ago
OK, think of all the brainpower that goes into visual processing, into social grey-area situations, remembering "right" and "left", processing financial worth and proper speech, that is used to provide the proper pronunciation and grammar for every language that is spoken in each person. Now: apply that to speaking through music.
Derek's is a specialist mind, not a generalist. As a specialist, he is using his speciality to assist others. Otherwise, how very lonely it would be for him!
Traveller000001 6 months ago
I retract the part of my previous comment where I effectively labeled all religious people brainless. It's not all of you. Just the really mouthy ones are. But as I stated previously, this is not a miracle of a god or gods. That's the bottom line. At most, it's a miracle of science, but miracles really don't exist. There's an explanation for this, as there is everything. We just don't know what it is yet.
zcrawford81 6 months ago
O.O Mind. Blown.
TheTrueShinobi 6 months ago
thing is, the average human can only focus up to around 10% of their brain activity on any one thing. he can focus so much more on his playing because he is unable to do much else. therefore, he is a genius of memorization and playing.
emperorsenshi 6 months ago
Oh man, I am a tango lover. I would love to hear him play some tangos on the piano!
samirhossain 6 months ago
Unfortunately some folks' reaction to anything and everything carries a "glory to god" connection. The sad part about this is not their faith, it's that some of us find such self assurance offensive. And those pushing their religious faith are often unable to understand that. We believe what we were raised to believe, and that's fine. It's attempts at compelling others to change beliefs that have so often caused wars, and those are the saddest of all.
fcyett 6 months ago
Derek is an instrument of God. He is a living testament to a loving God. His disability results from a premature birth, and his brain has developed to process sound to a degree that we would never experience. The normal brain receives 80% of its information from visuals. Derek's brain has been freed up from processing visuals, and audio processing of sound has naturally developed to a high degree that we would never experience. Who's normal? Derek is supernaturally normal.
sheenaL33 6 months ago
@sheenaL33 Please tell me WTF *isn't* an instrument of God? Because The Creator's glory is EVERYWHERE, so a statement such as yours is meaningless. The very existence of a pebble is a fookin' MIRACLE equal to Derek's existence.
Bunch of religious BS you're serving up here.
MoogNod 6 months ago
Wow...Genius.....magnificent...!
macresiaferre 6 months ago
The brain has extra-ordinary ways of rerouting power in order for survival, which happens with severe drinking. I wonder if the brain re-routes power into mathematical or piano-playing (for lack of the actual brain part), when it lacks in the cognitive or social parts?
DragomirJtac 6 months ago
Comment removed
Jennymaysmith 6 months ago
We are all created by God for a special purpose as is Derek
Jennymaysmith 6 months ago 2
@Jennymaysmith Get your religious bullshit out of here, I can't wait until the earth is rid of your stupidity.
DragomirJtac 6 months ago
@Jennymaysmith Hi, yes we surely are created by God for a special purpose in this life. Our purpose in life is preordained by Dearest Creator before we are even born. Even a disability such as blindness, in the long run, generally turns out to be a blessing in disguise. The God given gift of Musical Talent that Derek Paravicini has clearly shows this.
Lugmag001 6 months ago
I feel simply elated, transformed and grateful because this universe gives us presents in strange wrapping. Perhaps, it is time for humanity to communicate with sounds rather than words.
EvelineNow 6 months ago
Wonderful talent, amazing, and its great that he loves to meet people and engage with them, good luck to him, he has a lot to cope with, with no sight..etc...
birdienumnums1 6 months ago
i'd really like to know what goes on in this mans head. to be able to fully understand and speak english, and have extreme natural talent, but not understanding a concept such as "three fingers" amazes me
superweegee 6 months ago
:-)
buddhkist 7 months ago
...truly miraculous and a gift to humanity...
HiVybe 7 months ago 2
Oh... of course.
How could an immaterialist ever resist their learned habit of claiming that Derek's abilities are a gift from a supernatural entity. If an immaterialist ever did resist claiming that, then their act of resisting this nonsensical & learned claim would be a true "miracle." Derek is truly a passionate and masterful musician, who also has to manage with his physical and mental challenges.
thedeeliciousplum 7 months ago
run Derek RUN!
kevinmeister1964 7 months ago
Maybe God had something in mind that eludes us! He may be flawed, but God gave him an immense talent to make up for it! And simply mentioning God has nothing to do with religion - it's merely acknowledging Derek's creator! He definitely looks happy to me! God bless and keep Derek!!
MartyAlexander17 7 months ago
This guy is definately amazing! I wish him the very best. He's a beautiful person.. As well as his other disabilities he shows all the signs of Classic Autism. He's had many hurdles to cross in life but luckily also has this incredible talent. It's not uncommon for autistic people to have a talent, some do and some don't. I have an autistic son. He has talent for the sciences and computers but also has signif difficulties. Hopefully one day 'autistics' won't be seen as disabled just accepted...
Kaa1i 7 months ago
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TehDuty 7 months ago
God is all things..and those that don't see it will be below us all on judgement day...He is the one that give us our talents...and I do have a brain ...you two must not...
bigcstro 7 months ago
Nature i.e. premature birth caused his mental situation. God does not pre-decide what we are or become. Nature takes it course along with environment.
Salimgeo 7 months ago
Awe inspiring..... good onya Derek you're the best !! - and kudos for all around him who support him and love him for what he is.... He HAS the connection to the musical spheres of creation.....
proghog 7 months ago
A white Ray Charles...?
TheSonyGamer 7 months ago
Tha
bee2423 7 months ago
Astounding! Thank you 60 Minutes for hilighting such a gifted person.
bee2423 7 months ago
he is using his hart instead of his brain!
Holocircle 7 months ago
I got goosebumps
ManInBblack 7 months ago
Just watch the video and appreciate this guy's talent; this isn't a fucking religious debate.
TheCrabDriver 7 months ago 4
Proof that Brits are both interesting and fascinating ;) x
Aruthapete 7 months ago
Why does this have to be about God? It's the wonders of the human brain, don't bring religion into it. This is why people with a brain don't respect religion. It has to be made the center of everything by mindless zealots.
zcrawford81 7 months ago 32
@zcrawford81 Excuse me? This is why people with a brain don't respect religion? Well, who died and made YOU queen of the fucking universe? I happen to have a brain (which I received from God) and I respect religion. Who are you to judge someone for that? Last I heard this was a free country and everyone is entitled to his/her opinion. You can disagree if you want, but you certainly have no right to call people names or disrespect them..
reiki2guy 7 months ago
@zcrawford81
God and religion in my estimation do not mix any better than drinking and driving.
It was "the wonders of the human brain" that brought me to that conclusion.
It was then that spirituality dawned on me. That realization could not be undone even if I wanted it to.
Roselense1 7 months ago
@zcrawford81 -God and religion have nothing to do with each other.
wogwear1 7 months ago 2
@zcrawford81 because God's glory is shown in the weakness. If derekhad been normal this would not have been quite as fantastic as it is. Watching this I could only gasp in awe at God's greatness.
brenttauro 7 months ago
@zcrawford81 all have an explanation , logically ! its his brain not a miracle , but god created this brain of his ,at least that what i believe
Virdelet 6 months ago
@zcrawford81
Anyone who chooses to use his or her brain will realize that Derek has a gift that can only come from God. Why God created him in this unique way will never be known, but the only response to have to this story is, WOW!!!!!!
Neilfrozn 6 months ago
@zcrawford81 How have you survived as long as you have being so closed minded? Seriously? That's unbelievable that you could be this way. I'm not a deeply religious person but I have VERY deep respect for the idea and you are making yourself look very stupid with comments like this.
EdnaxScissorhands 5 months ago
@zcrawford81 Either it is about God or it is about chaos. Those with a brain do not disrespect the religion of others. Everyone is religious (Read "The Varieties of Religious Experiences" by the atheist philosopher William James-may help you to be less narrow minded) it is just a choice of organized or disorganized, or to the extent to which your religion pervades your life...
daveixoye 5 months ago 2
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To God be the glory! What an astounding miracle with his God given ability. Thank you so much for sharing this wonderful talent with us Derek! To whom much is given...much is required.
cathyrose7 7 months ago
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This young man just proves the Bible verse -- "I am fearfully [awesomely] and wonderfully made"....only God could create someone like him!!
jammies3 7 months ago
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This young man just proves the Bible verse -- "I am fearfully [awesomely] and wondrously made"....only God could create someone like him!!
jammies3 7 months ago
@jammies3 Yeah, God must care a lot about him if he made him blind and mentally handicapped.
CaramelMarshmallow 7 months ago 8
@CaramelMarshmallow God did not make him this way. He allowed him to live and gave him a precious gift that he obviouly enjoys
appraiserjackie 7 months ago
@appraiserjackie Allowed him? Yeah the same way he allowed tyrants to live.
ytrewQwerty 7 months ago
@CaramelMarshmallow
So what do you suppose Derek would say if you ask him if he was happy? He seems like a happy guy to me. Do you think that having the same senses as you do are a requirement for living?
I would venture to say that he can outhink you, zcrawford and me put together. I'd also be willing to bet that he has more insight than any dozen "normal" people.
I cannot spot a single handicap. For the gifts he is providing to the world, I would be honored to tie that guys shoes.
Roselense1 7 months ago
@CaramelMarshmallow He's better at some things than you will ever be asshole (and more famous). You make the best of what you're given.
johnnyanddominic 6 months ago
@CaramelMarshmallow There are plenty of people who are neither mentally handicpped nor blind who are unhappy and unfulfilled. This guy is floating in a sea of love, the greatest gift of all. Does he look unhappy to you ?
claudelebel55 5 months ago 54
@CaramelMarshmallow
God is not a person that "cares" about people.
Derek's mnd is simply part of the Universal Mind that is "God".
socamaestro 5 months ago
@CaramelMarshmallow Even though he's blind and handy, his life is better than mine, and im perfectly great. His life is like a dream to most people. THerefore, God really does care about him
kennathecougar135 5 months ago
@CaramelMarshmallow
I want to invite you to ask Derek's parents if he's a burden and sad thing to watch, or rather a gift which they enjoy and smile whenever they see him play amazingly. I am not saying God should be incorporated to everything (although that might be true), but I want to state that God does love him, giving him this great gift probably very few in the world can even mimik what he can do. I bet he want to show the world that this man is not to be ignored but to be respected
ghksgmlk23 4 months ago
Beautiful, pure joy
johnjeri1 7 months ago
I wear my sunglasses at night...
nateislegend 7 months ago
wow, just wow.
gaza1992 7 months ago
amazing. strengthens my belief in my God.
rgouette 7 months ago
@rgouette God has nothing to do with it. God doesn't even really exist.
Michael55443 7 months ago
@Michael55443 o crap..you're right..I forgot! man, I'm such a idiot
rgouette 7 months ago
@rgouette Glad you came to your senses. You'll go further in life not having to live in constant guilt.
Michael55443 7 months ago
@Michael55443 I'm always amazed how folks associate feelings like that with God. I'm saddened for you folk.
rgouette 7 months ago
@rgouette I associate nothing with god because god isn't real. We made him up. And get over your serious arrogance in think you have the slightest idea of what a creator would be about. If there is some form of creator (certainly NOT the god of our fictitious bible) we couldn't POSSIBLY understand such a being. Stop living the lie.
Michael55443 7 months ago
@Michael55443 I need to say nothing in His defense. you're making all the needed points.
rgouette 7 months ago
@rgouette Very lame comeback. You have nothing you CAN say. Go bang your bible. Someday the world will wise up to the whole religion money making scam. What a shame you are only making it worse for the world with your beliefs.
Michael55443 7 months ago
@Michael55443 You are right, a real God cant be figured, that is why you haven't. If you would stop pretending you have you will see Him in His creation, even His grace in you because no matter how much you hate Him, he still loves you.
Maribel1944 7 months ago 3
@Maribel1944 Keep your fairy tales to yourself. Wake up and live in the real world. I hate when you religious nuts claim to have some knowledge that the rest of the world can't understand. You are fooling yourself! If god existed, he would surely not create someone as stupid as you.
Michael55443 7 months ago
Derek is a living miracle. A truly inspirational story. Talent like this is far and few between. I congratulate Derek and his teacher. May they work together for many years to come.
porkomatic 7 months ago
What an amazing talent ... and he looks soooo happy when he's playing. It's beautiful :)
bkolb1000 7 months ago
When I was doing my practicum observation for my music education degree I got to meet a 1st grader who is like Derek. You don't even know the emotions you will have watching this video and seeing it in real life...in the real life one, it grabs your heart and never lets go...it is so moving
singerboi588 7 months ago
How incredible! Anyone who has ever played any instrument knows what a true talent this man has. Thank goodness he was "discovered" and nurtured. When God takes away one ability he often bestows another one. May God continue to bless Derek.
doubleagle64 7 months ago
I mean to say... what is it about the our brains that makes us so limited? Why does it take being a savant to be able to easily do amazing things like this? Granted, they aren't on easy street by any means. But my point is our brain limitations. Side note: I'd like to think this is what playing music will be like in Heaven.
jpoprock 7 months ago
This just goes to show you what the human brain is capable of. If only we can WILLING access this power and develop it as easily as he has? Remarkable. To me, this is what I imagine playing music will be like in Heaven.
jpoprock 7 months ago
whatttsss the song at 9:50
the really happy one!!!!
kingadrian01 7 months ago
If you dont smile the entire time you are watching this, you have NO SOUL.
tjdiff80 7 months ago