Sophomore William Tan transposes music flawlessly despite a mental disability

There are approximately 2600 students on our campus—2600 stories to tell. El Estoque presents “15 Days of Fame”, a feature updated every 15 days with the next undiscovered story.

On an old piano inside the small practice room, sophomore William Tan plays Beethoven’s “Moonlight Sonata”—in an entirely different key from Beethoven’s.

Tan takes lessons at Calder Academy in Stevens Creek and occasionally performs at the concert hall in Santa Clara University. His teacher, Philip Calder, found Tan playing one of Bach’s most popular preludes in another key and instantly noticed his potential. Since then, Tan has practiced piano and kept his passion alive. Despite mental disabilities, his musical talent and skill exceeds those of many other students.

But even the most adept musician has their vice. “The most difficult thing is the fingering. It’s always the fingering.” Tan said. “Sometimes the first time, I play the wrong note. But usually, I get it right the first time.”  His confidence and strength allow him to continue playing his passion—the piano.

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