Blind Musical Savant Shares Gift Worldwide

Tony DeBlois, a blind and autistic musician, has performed in over 20 countries despite not being able to read or write music.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 11:26pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up photograph of a piano keyboard's glossy black surface and metallic keys, captured in dramatic studio lighting to create a high-contrast, abstract, and glamorous visual representation of the instrument that enabled a musical savant's rise to worldwide stages.The intricate details and gleaming textures of the piano keyboard that launched a blind musical prodigy's incredible global career.Corpus Christi Today

Tony DeBlois, a blind and autistic musical savant, has traveled the world performing on 23 different instruments despite not being able to read or write music. DeBlois started playing piano at age 2 and has been performing professionally since age 9, playing shows in countries like Singapore, Taiwan, Ireland, and Nigeria. His incredible musical abilities were discovered when his mother bought him a $10 keyboard as a toddler, leading to a lifelong career sharing his gift globally.

Why it matters

DeBlois' story is an inspiring example of overcoming challenges and pursuing one's passions, even in the face of disabilities. His global performances and message of self-belief resonate with audiences and provide hope for others facing adversity.

The details

DeBlois, who is now 45 years old, was born blind and autistic but discovered his musical talents at a young age. When he was 2 years old, his mother Janice bought him a $10 keyboard, which led him to start playing 'Twinkle Twinkle Little Star' and kickstarted his lifelong career. DeBlois can now play 23 different instruments, despite not being able to read or write music, and has performed in over 20 countries around the world, including Nigeria, Singapore, Taiwan, and Ireland.

  • DeBlois started playing piano at age 2.
  • He began performing professionally at age 9.
  • DeBlois has been performing for 43 years.

The players

Tony DeBlois

A blind and autistic musical savant who can play 23 different instruments despite not being able to read or write music. He has been performing professionally since the age of 9 and has traveled the world sharing his gift.

Janice DeBlois

Tony DeBlois' mother, who bought him a $10 keyboard when he was 2 years old, which led to the discovery of his incredible musical abilities.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I started playing the piano at the age of 2… started playing professionally at 9 years old… and I've been doing this for 43 years.”

— Tony DeBlois, Blind Musical Savant

“I bought him a keyboard for 10 dollars… just to give him a reason to sit up. I heard 'Twinkle Twinkle Little Star'… and I knew.”

— Janice DeBlois, Tony DeBlois' Mother

“It's OK to be different. Believe in yourself. Don't give up on your dreams. Always keep trying. Always have high hopes… and the three P's are practice, practice, practice.”

— Tony DeBlois, Blind Musical Savant

What’s next

DeBlois and his mother plan to continue their winter travels to Texas, where he will perform for audiences and share his inspiring message of perseverance and self-belief.

The takeaway

Tony DeBlois' incredible journey from a $10 keyboard to playing on stages around the world is a testament to the power of passion, determination, and the human spirit. His story provides hope and inspiration for others facing challenges, proving that with dedication and self-belief, anything is possible.