Boy, 11, becomes piano prodigy by watching YouTube

In a small town called Stoke Ferry, located near Downham Market in Norfolk, an extraordinary 11-year-old boy named Harvey has captured the attention of many with his remarkable talent for playing the piano. What makes Harvey's story even more impressive is that he taught himself to play the piano in just five months by watching videos on YouTube. His dedication and passion for music have led him to reach an advanced level known as grade eight, which is quite an achievement for someone so young. Harvey's mother, Jen, has been a supportive figure in his musical journey. She proudly shares videos of him playing the piano online, and these videos have gained thousands of views, showcasing his incredible skills. Recently, Harvey received an invitation from a prestigious music school to attend an induction day, where he will have the opportunity to meet professionals in the music industry and explore the possibilities of his talent. Harvey expressed that playing the piano is not just a hobby for him; it is a therapeutic experience that brings him joy and satisfaction. He has already performed at a care home where his mother works and has played on public pianos at railway stations. The applause he receives from the audience makes him feel accepted and appreciated for his performances. Jen, while proud of her son's achievements, humorously noted that he did not inherit his musical talent from her. She jokingly mentioned that she could only play a simple tune called 'Chopsticks. ' Instead, she emphasized that Harvey has taken the initiative to learn on his own, spending hours each day immersed in his music. This newfound passion for playing the piano came as a surprise to Jen, as Harvey had previously shown a keen interest in computers and design. However, she is excited to see where this musical journey will lead him. Recently, Harvey began formal lessons at The Norfolk Academy of Music, where he is under the guidance of his teacher, Bekki Smith. Bekki was amazed by Harvey's progress and stated, 'My first reaction was, Wow, we've got something special here. ' She noted that it is quite remarkable for someone to reach such a high level of playing after only a few months of practice. Bekki highlighted Harvey's impressive dexterity and capability for his age, recognizing his potential as a musician. She plans to work with him to fill in some gaps in his knowledge that may have resulted from learning online. Bekki emphasized the importance of practice in achieving progress, noting that Harvey dedicates at least two hours a day to practicing, which sets him apart from many other students who struggle to find time for their music. She pointed out that while many students can find hours for social media, they often neglect their practice time. Harvey's story serves as an inspiring reminder that with determination and hard work, anyone can achieve their dreams, just as he has done with his piano playing.