On a high note

The encounter of Bob Bellows and Deng Peitong jazzes up both of their lives. Photos by Zou Zhongpin / China Daily

The youth sounds out

Met star brings Confucian ideal to recital

An 87-year-old US jazz star is ensuring his legacy in China by training a blind 13-year-old piano prodigy. Xu Jingxi speaks with Bob Bellows in Zhuhai, Guangdong province.

American jazz singer Bob Bellows is delighted to spend the rest of his career in China, but his retirement won't be the end of his musical legacy. It will live on in his 13-year-old visually impaired piano student Deng Peitong.

The 87-year-old musician, who has made the country his second home for 13 years, has been training the Chinese girl since he met her eight years ago. He became her tutor after the girl's mother saw his website and invited him to her performance.

"I was impressed that she played so well despite being blind," Bellows says.

"I think she is a child prodigy."

Deng was born without eyesight but has learned piano since age 3. Even then, she possessed an uncanny ability to play a song after listening to it once or twice.

"I see light when I play piano," the girl says.

"Music is my sun."

The otherwise quiet and lethargic girl radiates resounding energy behind the keyboard.

The piece Deng played for Bellows upon their first meeting was French pianist Richard Clayderman's Starry Sky.

Bellows not only teaches the girl but also performs with her.

"Niko (Deng's English name) belongs to the stage," Bellows says.

"She has got the talent. I want to help her. I believe everyone should be given a chance to show their abilities and artistry. I can be the one to give them the opportunity."