Inspirational musician Grace Matthews wowed families during her first public performance since winning hit TV show The Piano.
The 19-year-old, who had her fingers amputated after contracting meningitis when she was four, showcased her talent during a special intimate concert hosted by East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) at The Treehouse, in Ipswich.
It was the latest of the hospice’s interactive Music Nights, giving children and families an opportunity to explore sound, rhythm and imagination in a way that suits them, supported by volunteer musicians from across the community.
Grace took to the piano during the second half of the show and played Experience by Ludovico Einaudi, from her winning performance on The Piano, in addition to U2’s With Or Without You and Snow Patrol’s Chasing Cars, before inviting the audience to sing along to Let It Be, by The Beatles.
She also took part in a short question-and-answer session with Ray Travasso, EACH’s Music Therapist at The Treehouse.
“I absolutely loved it. What a night and what an experience,” said Grace, who contracted meningitis and meningococcal septicaemia when she was four – conditions that also resulted in her lower legs being amputated. She found a love for music and was inspired to try the piano by her music therapist, Dawn Loome, while being treated at Addenbrooke’s Hospital, in Cambridge. Dawn was also part of the concert at The Treehouse.
“I felt nervous when I first started playing because this was my first public performance since recording the show.
“Then the butterflies disappeared, and it felt great to be back in front of an audience again.
“Ray has been a great supporter of mine, and it was lovely to come to the hospice, see where he works and meet some of the families being supported.
“I had some fantastic conversations, and everyone was very kind about my performance. I hope they enjoyed hearing me play.”
In addition to Grace’s showstopping performance, the dozen families in attendance, a mix of both bereaved families and those with a child receiving care, were welcomed with a rendition of Billy Joel’s Piano Man.
Then two children receiving care bravely stepped forward to sing. Ann-Louise Owens performed A Thousand Miles by Vanessa Carlton, and Charlotte Freegard sang Ed Sheeran’s Perfect.
There was also an opportunity for a member of the audience – someone who had never played the piano before – to step forward for a quickfire lesson.
Dad Gavin Senior put his hand up and was invited to perform with Ray.
Son Dougie, two, has a rare genetic condition that causes numerous challenges, including a severe form of epilepsy.
“I loved it,” said Gavin.
“It was an amazing experience, and I completely forgot that lots of people were watching. I was lost in the moment and so glad I put my hand up.”
In addition to Dougie, Gavin was joined by wife Clare and their four-month-old son, Ralph.
“We’ve all stayed together at the hospice, and it’s been absolutely invaluable,” said Clare.
“Having a newborn baby in the house, alongside another young son with extra needs, has certainly created additional pressures, and the last few months have been incredibly challenging.
“However, the staff here have been amazing, and we truly appreciate the help and support we get. It’s made such a difference.
“We’re so grateful for all the support we receive and for being given opportunities to enjoy such wonderful events. It was an experience I’m not sure we’d ever have considered including Dougie in if it wasn’t for EACH.
“Seeing him enjoy the music without any pressure or anxiety for us was truly special, and we’re very thankful our family was able to be part of it.”
Another parent to enjoy the evening was Jade Martin, who brought daughter Beatrix. The nine-year-old has Bilateral Cerebral Atrophy and Severe Global Dystonia.
“It was a more difficult day for us, but Beatrix was still able to enjoy the music, and what a treat it was to have a grand piano at The Treehouse,” she said.
“It looked beautiful, with the lights and candles creating such a special atmosphere.
“As a parent, especially during such a challenging time, it meant so much to be able to pause for a moment, knowing discreet medical support was on hand if needed.
“Being able to stop, listen to such beautiful music and simply be together was a rare and wonderful gift.”
Ray said he was grateful to Cambridge-based Millers Music for providing a grand piano for the concert through its Piano Equals scheme.
The donation and reuse initiative was launched to tackle music education inequality and environmental waste.
“It couldn’t have gone any better and was a magical night,” he added.
“Grace is truly inspirational, and it was so generous of her and her family to give up their time to create such an unforgettable experience.
“Her performance gave everyone light and hope, and we’re truly thankful. It was a celebration of the power of music.
“As ever with these events, it was a true team effort from everyone here at the hospice, from those responsible for the beautiful lighting and delicious spread of food to the astonishing piano cake.
“No stone was left unturned, and it was lovely to see so many families relaxing and enjoying the music together.”
Expansion work at The Treehouse started earlier this year and is expected to be completed by spring 2028. The development will include a new hydrotherapy pool, wellbeing and therapies suite, larger care activity area, dedicated teenage space, an additional bedroom and expanded kitchen and dining facilities.
While this significant work takes place, care and support at The Treehouse continues. The hospice remains open, with children and families continuing to access short breaks, services, groups and events throughout the development.
Pictures: Karen Self/EACH
