An inclusive evening of inspirational music-making.

Following its success last year, OSJ Music for Autism presents another inclusive concert, featuring two amazing pianists Derek Paravicini,  Ashleigh Turley and other young musicians across the spectrum of neurodiversity

With Poppy McGhee violin.

(Lucy Illingworth, winner of Channel 4’s The Piano, is no longer able to take part in this event.)

Born three and a half months prematurely, Derek is blind and has severe autism. But with perfect pitch, innate talent and a lot of practice, he became a concert pianist by the age of 10. He can play almost any piece by ear in any key and style and is one of the most extraordinary pianists and musicians of his generation. Explore his YouTube channel to find out more about Derek’s incredible journey and musical abilities, and to hear his truly unique stylistic interpretations.

Ashleigh has been blind since birth, is on the autistic spectrum and has hearing difficulties. At a very young age, Ashleigh developed a love of music and is able to play the piano, drums, organ, guitar and saxophone all to a very high standard. Ashleigh has also been supported by The Amber Trust, and as well as performing she now also composes her own music.

Poppy loves to perform, but what is really important to her is being able to bring pleasure to others through her music. Poppy is a music scholar at Marlborough College where she studies with Philip Dukes. She is a member of the Junior Department at the Royal Academy of Music, leads the Somerset County Youth Orchestra, and hopes to study and perform professionally.
In recognition of Poppy’s exceptional work for a number of charities, most notably the Amber Trust, Future Talent, and AYM (Awards for Young Musicians), Poppy was awarded a Rotary Young Citizen’s Award (2021), and a Diana Award (2021) – the former being one of only six such awards nationally.

Free tickets available for NHS workers and for the disabled. Please email admin@osj.org.uk.

We encourage you to make a Voluntary Donation to our 2023 programme of concerts for children in SEN schools.

PLEASE PARK RESPONSIBLY IN DORCHESTER VILLAGE. DO NOT BLOCK DRIVEWAY ACCESS NEAR TO THE ABBEY. Parking areas for events are signposted: either the Recreation Ground at the Oxford end, or in a field over the bridge.

£25, £20, £15