*Darrius Simmons is a 15-year-old Warren, Ohio native who was born with just three fingers on his right hand and one finger on his left. He also has no bones beneath his knees.
In spite of his handicap, the piano prodigy made headlines earlier this year when he caught the attention of renowned Korean pianist, Yiruma. After watching Simmons play piano in person, Yiruma invited the teen to play on stage at Carnegie Hall, where he wowed spectators.
Essence.com reports that Simmons is now slaying with the Warren G. Harding high school marching band. The sophomore hasn’t been able to march because he wears prosthetic legs, but the band director made sure there’s a spot for him playing the keyboard.
“It’s a new instrument for us, incorporating it in with the rest of the marching band,” said Reid Young, Warren G. Harding band director.
READ RELATED STORY: Arizona School Bans ‘Disruptive’ Black Lives Matter T-Shirts
“I never thought that I’d be in a marching band, because I didn’t think there was another spot that you can do except marching,” said Darrius Simmons. “It’s been way great. I enjoy being a part of it. I enjoyed the long days of band camp.”
Simmons acknowledges that he’s grown accustomed to playing with a group as opposed to by himself, and he’s learning how to read music instead of just playing by ear.
“I can sit and show him once how the part goes, show him how to read the music and within minutes,” said Young. “He’s able to find his own way to make it work and find his own way to play the part 100% correct, it’s fun.”
His high school responsibilities won’t stop Darrius from pursuing his own performance. Next month, he will be playing with fellow Warren native and concert pianist Dana Morgan at a local church.
We Publish News 24/7. Don’t Miss A Story. Click HERE to SUBSCRIBE to Our Newsletter Now!
