CONCERTS in the West welcomes back the exceptionally talented and inspirational one handed pianist Nicholas McCarthy.

As part of his Concerts in the West tour, Nicholas will be working with young musicians at the Centre for Young Musicians Taunton (CYMT).

Nicholas McCarthy was born in 1989 without his right hand and only began to play the piano at the age of 14 after being inspired by hearing a friend play Beethoven’s Waldstein Sonata.

Having once been told that he would never succeed as a concert pianist, Nicholas was not discouraged and went on to study at the prestigious Royal College of Music in London.

His graduation in July 2012 drew press headlines around the world, being the only one-handed pianist to graduate from the Royal College of Music in its 130 year history. In March 2018 he was awarded honorary membership by it’s President, HRH The Prince of Wales.

Nicholas is a champion of the ‘left hand alone’ repertoire, which first came to prominence in the early 19th century and developed rapidly following the First World War as a result of the many injuries suffered by musicians on the battlefield.

Catherine Maddocks, the founder and director of Concerts in the West, said: “The extraordinary left-handed pianist Nicholas McCarthy returns this season.

“Not only does he give performances all over the world but he has helped many companies motivate their workforce by sharing his unique and inspiring story.

“During his tour of the West Country he will work with young players from the CYMT and I am sure he will inspire them too.”

Nicholas McCarthy will be at The Methodist Church in Minehead on March 5, at Ilminster Arts Centre in Ilminster on March 6, at Richard Huish College in Taunton and at The Dance House in Crewkerne on March 7.

To find out more visit concertsinthewest.org or call 01823 252658.