Wian is tickling the ivories to a better future
Wian Visser has been named the winner of #droomgroot18.
Every young musician is inspired by someone and to meet that person would be a dream come true.
This dream became a reality for Primrose resident Wian Visser (17), last Thursday, when well-known pianist Rocco de Villiers, visited him at his home.
Rocco’s visit came with a special purpose.
He was there to give Wian the fantastic news that the youngster had won the Afrikaans.com #droomgroot18 talent competition.
Wian sent in a video of himself playing the piano.
The piece had to include Afrikaans songs and Wian had to write a motivational letter as to what he would do with the prize to further his music dream.
He said that he would buy a keyboard which would help him greatly in furthering his dream.
“I was so shocked and totally surprised that I won,” Wian said.
“I also felt incredibly proud.”
What makes Wian so special is the fact that he cannot read music and is self-taught.
He learns by watching YouTube videos and by ear.
“My grandfather Chris Visagie is one of my inspirations as he also plays the piano by ear,” Wian said.
This is the second year Afrikaans.com has hosted the competition.
The competition requires high school children to send in videos of their talents, as well as a motivational letter to accompany it.
“This year 71 entries were received and Wian’s video and his letter stood out so he was chosen as the winner,” said Nicolette van Schalkwyk from Afrikaans.com.
Wian has always longed to perform on stage with his idol, Rocco and the competition has now made this possible.
“He will perform on stage with Rocco on February 17, next year, at the Atterbury Theatre,” said Nicolette.
“At the show, Rocco will hand over Wian’s prize.
“This prize is still a big secret and will be revealed at the show.
“The prize is partly sponsored by Afrikaans.com and Wian will also be dressed by Klerekas.com for the evening.”
As part of his prize, he also received a Klerekas.com voucher, socks and a bow tie from Afrikaans.com.
During the surprise visit to Wian’s home Rocco also presented him with one of his albums, a pair of socks from his new range, as well as a music book.
“I advise you to learn how to read music as you will need to be able to when you start writing your own songs,” Rocco advised Wian.
Wian was delighted to spend time with his idol and play the piano for him.
He even convinced Rocco to play him a tune in return.
Wian started tickling the keys at the age of 13 thanks to his granddad but the piano is not the only thing he is good at.
The Hoërskool Goudrif learner, who will take up the leadership role of deputy head boy for culture in his matric year, next year, also participates in the choir and revue.
On the sports field he is a South African Springbok jukskei player, a top ringball player, a tennis player and an avid cricket player.
“When I leave school I want to play cricket professionally,” he said.
“That and play the piano!”
Wian’s parents Landie and Willem, and his sister Winé (14), are proud of his achievement and are excited to see him grow from strength to strength.
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It’s all about the music for Germiston teen
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