I am Sandy Sin, a Percussionist and tutor. I would like to share a warm-hearted story of some students and parents who will be holding a fundraising concert inspired by a little musician named Matthew.

Little Musician Matthew Zhou, 13, was born with albinism, a rare condition lacking of pigment (melanin) in skin, hair and eyes. It often leads to reduced vision, other eye problems and light sensitivity issues.

When Matthew's parent approached me for percussion lessons, I was quite worried. I researched on Albinism and vision impairment and I couldn’t imagine how difficult it would be for Matthew to play percussion instruments.

However, Matthew didn’t let his low vision (disadvantaged condition?) to hold him back. He displayed brightness and confidence in every lesson.

All of my lucky students who had encountered Matthew are inspired and extremely encouraged by his positivity and endeavorment. Despite Matthew’s condition, we are very fortunate to see such a bright happy spirit. “Vision Australia has been working with me and my family since I was just three-months- old, and they have helped me in every step of my life. Vision Australia’s staff members have not only provided our family with guidance, but have been invaluable in helping my transition into Kindergarten and Primary School by providing educators with guidance on how to help to make my life a little bit easier.

Without doubt Vision Australia has been the biggest factor in me becoming the confident child that I am today”.

Matthew is also very fortunate that he has many talented percussion friends and their parents around him whose been very supportive. And I feel privileged to have them as my students. On Saturday 2 April, my students and I are hoping to raise more funds for Vision Australia for a charity percussion concert at Mosman Art Gallery.

We would like to meet many vision impaired kids, just like Matthew and I also want my students to live in harmony regardless of their conditions.

Vision Australia are hugely reliant upon support from you. Without your support, they are unable to continue with the incredible work to provide essential services and education for those kids with blindness and low vision, who has the potential to become independent and successful learners.

Please help the Vision Australia to give them the best possible start to help these young children. If you're able and willing to donate, even a small amount, we’d really appreciate your support.

You can also purchase tickets to the concert from Janet on 0404 077 612 or email: janet.fong@y7mail.com. They are $15 for Adults and $10 for children or pensioners. You can also get a family pass for two adults and two children for $35.

All the money from ticket sales will go directly towards supporting Vision Australia’s Children’s services.