Meet the young 'Beethoven' proving disability is no barrier to success

Deaf teenager Alia Abdulqader has wowed family, friends and teachers with her musical talents

Alia Abdulqader hopes to one day share her musical gifts with other deaf children and show them they should never put limitations on their ambitions. Chris Whiteoak / The National

Deaf teenager Alia Abdulqader is living proof that disability should never stop someone from pursuing their dreams.

It is no surprise she has been nicknamed Beethoven by her friends and family, as she too has shown that musical ability can overcome any obstacle.

The 16-year-old pianist, who lives in Sharjah, displayed the talent she has at her finger tips at an early age.

A teacher at Al Amal School For The Deaf spotted her remarkable ability to master music and staff and her family have made sure it has been nurtured ever since.

As well as uncanny ability to create music on a piano or a keyboard, her creative streak does not end there, as she also has a love of art.

After a year of guidance from her music teacher, she was able to perform complete musical pieces.

“We take care of our students, we nurture and develop their talents,” said Afaf Al Hareedi, head of the school.

Alia, who was born deaf, is continuing to hone her musical skills, which she has shared at events across the country.

The support Alia has received has given her the confidence to share her talents with a wider audience, said Ms Asaf.

Music teacher Amro Waheed is greatly impressed by her rapid development.

"She gets the beat correct and really quick. She places her hands on the keyboard to feel the beat and  gets it right from the first time," said Mr Amro.
He said that since he started working with Alia, he has never felt like he is teaching music to a hearing impaired girl.

“I don't get that feeling because she doesn’t give me that feeling and no matter how hard the piece is, she catches the beat and plays it perfectly,” he said.

Alia, who has a younger brother and sister, hopes to one day turn from student to teacher and pass on her expertise to other young children with hearing difficulties.

“I love music and want to teach it to those who are like me when I grow up,” said Alia, who holds a Comoros Islands passport.

Alia has the backing of loving parents, eager to support her every step of the way.

“I’m always full of pride and wish one day she will what she aspires to be and as for our role as her parents, we will support her with everything we can,” said her mother, Latifa.

“Whenever Alia takes part in any event, we are always there for her. I sit there anxiously waiting for her turn to come to the stage, and when she is done, my feelings of joy and pride cannot be described.