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Throughout Matt McLaren’s life, there have been a number of people who have encouraged him along the way.
This week, the former Denman resident went through to the finals of Channel Nine show Australia’s Got Talent (AGT) with his singing and keyboard playing.
Joining him on stage was guide dog Stamford, who helps him navigate through blindness.
The country is now watching the musician, but he hasn’t forgotten the woman who taught him piano.
On Tuesday he visited Sister Dorothy Dolahenty in Muswellbrook, and played the same instrument he learned on all those years ago.
When he featured on the Muswellbrook Chronicle front page with Sr Dorothy in December 1992, the headline read “Matthew’s talent charms hundreds”.
Today, 23 years later, it would be correct to say he is now charming thousands – including the AGT judges, who gave his audition a standing ovation.
Mr McLaren grew up with music, beginning piano at 3.
After graduating from Muswellbrook High School, the talented performer moved to Newcastle to perform.
“I’ve always loved it,” he said.
“I play [gigs] about five or six times a week, mostly around the Newcastle area.
“Music is something I’ll always do in some way, shape or form.
“I think I’ll always perform; performing is always a lot of fun.”
Along with the support of his friends and family, Mr McLaren is very grateful for Sr Dorothy’s forethought when she taught him.
Having never taught a blind child before, Sr Dorothy would think up ideas to help Matt learn and improve.
From recording audio tapes so he could learn by ear, to making raised treble clefts and note lengths so he could visualise their shapes.
“They sound like small things but a lot of thought goes into that,” Mr McLaren said.
“Dorothy was always looking for new ways to do things.
“I couldn’t have asked for a better teacher.”
Sr Dorothy said it was a privilege to guide him, and she always looked forward to his lessons.
Mr McLaren is grateful for everyone who has supported him, from family and friends, to those who voted for him on Australia’s Got Talent.
“It’s a pretty amazing feeling; very humbling,” he said.
To hear Matt perform, visit www.twinsanity.com.au to view the dates for his upcoming gigs.
