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Northern Daily Leader - Tamworth
written by Anna Rose

Former Tamworth-based remedial therapist Lorin Nicholson visited the city last week, with his new business that puts him in touch with a whole new audience he can inspire and educate - and in the most musical and fun manner possible. Leader journalist, Anna Rose, was invited along to his final performance on Thursday.

Lorin Nicholson's final performance in the region on Thursday at St Joseph's Primary School in West Tamworth was one to remember - as even the kindy kids will tell you.

Asked by teacher Marianne Holley, who organised the visit, what they got out of the performance, the five-and six-year-olds raised their hands and answered in turn . . . "he's a blind man", "look at what he's achieved", and "wow - a blind man can play the guitar like that!".

For close to an hour, students from K-6 sat enthralled - not the easiest task with young ones - by Lorin's lightning fast finger-picking, strumming and his stories of encouragement, determination and inspiration.

The entertainment factor kept the whole show together, and Lorin's personal accounts of "being teased for being different", and how to treat people who may face challenges throughout their life hit home too.

Lorin has been blind since birth due to retinitis pigmentosa - a genetic problem that left him with only 10 per cent vision; that has now deteriorated to around six per cent.

By constructing a pair of glasses with tiny holes at the centre covered with 17 layers of plastic wrap, Lorin was able to share his view of the world with the children.

He also taught the audience about etiquette, and how to greet a blind person to avoid embarrassment.

"When you approach and greet a blind person, call them by name, using your own name and if you wish to shake hands, give them a gentle tap on the wrist, so they are aware of your intentions," Lorin explained, and demonstrated with a member of the audience, who was wearing the "special glasses".

Assistant principal Theresa Mitchell said he "entertained us with his talent and inspired us with his stories".

"Lorin appealed on so many different levels," Ms Mitchell said.

"He was very down to earth, and related well to the kids and adults there. The music he played was recognisable, covering all the different styles from classical to country, rock'n'roll to rhythm and blues.

"Lorin also gave us life lessons, stories about his life that were inspiring, and encouraged the kids around him to follow their dreams, no matter what their peers or others might think.

"By involving the children he really got the message across. He really opened their eyes, as they could all relate to the teasing he endured as a youngster growing up with a disability. I had tingles up my spine."

Mrs Holley, who co-ordinated Lorin's visit, was "thrilled" she accepted Trevor Donaldson's invitation by phone.

"It was really excellent - on two levels. The music appreciation, and the message.

"I have kindergarten students and I got some great comments from them - about him being blind and what he's achieved. I'm thrilled to bits."

Lorin and his father-in- law Trevor Donaldson now operate a business, See Sharp, which takes this innovative and inspirational program into schools across Australia.

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