Showcase of young musical talent

Ivan Paul giving his all on stage during the concert.

A MUSIC school staged a concert to celebrate the abilities of all children, including those with special needs.

Returning for its 18th year after a three-year break, the Music Manic Concert by Music Mart was a beautiful display of inclusivity, bringing together families and music enthusiasts alike to witness the impressive talents of young performers.

Music Mart founder and recipient of the 2022 Star Golden Hearts Award Edwin Nathaniel said the school wanted to feature both able and special needs children, and to demonstrate that their love for music and ability to pursue it was entirely possible.

“We want to show people what they are capable of, especially when playing together as a team,” Edwin said, noting that music was therapeutic for children with special needs, who have demonstrated that they can create music too.

“My goal is to come up with an album for them in the future, given that some of them are talented songwriters,” he said.

Amid a student body of around 180, Music Mart showcased the musical ability of 70 students at the concert, including those on the autism spectrum and children with Down Syndrome, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and dyslexia.

They performed in a wide range of musical genres, both old and new, while displaying their proficiency in playing musical instruments.

The show commenced with a powerful rendition of Believer by Imagine Dragons and concluded with a Beatles medley, during which the teachers joined in and Nathaniel demonstrated his drumming skills.

The concert kept the audience at British International School Kuala Lumpur entertained for three hours.

They comprised many family members and friends of the performers.