Scots pianist Sean Logan has reached the grand finale of a Channel 4 talent show.
The Edinburgh-born autistic musician previously appeared in a BAFTA-winning short film, Harmonic Spectrum. The Piano, hosted by Claudia Winkleman, is a Channel 4 competition show in a bid to find the top four UK amateur pianists to perform at the Royal Festival Hall in London.
Pop icon Mika and world-renowned pianist Lang Lang will judge Sean and his fellow finalists to see who will get through to the final performance. Sean also performed his own Edinburgh Fringe show last year focused on his experiences as an autistic musician and will be appearing at the festival again this year.
Speaking of the show, Sean said: “It’s been a fantastic experience being on the show, I’ve really enjoyed it and it was great to get to perform as a finalist alongside such talented musicians at the Royal Festival Hall.
"Music brings people together in a positive way and, for me, as an autistic person, it is a great way to connect with others. I think it’s really important that autistic people are seen on TV and portrayed in an honest way, as it inspires other autistic people to be themselves and to not hide away or think that they aren’t valued. This show, like Harmonic Spectrum, does just that."
He added: "In my experience, the help is out there if you’re autistic and you need it, but it can often be difficult to find. I think that getting that help and support is vital, because when autistic people are supported and encouraged, they can achieve great things.”
Rob Holland, Director of the National Autistic Society Scotland, said: "We’re delighted to see Sean reach the final of The Piano, and that he has the platform to showcase his exceptional talent.
It’s also a step forward for positive autistic representation on TV, as it challenges the stereotypical view as to what autistic people can achieve. It also draws attention to the benefits of creative musical interaction, which we know helps many autistic people to enhance their confidence and self-expression.
We hope that this achievement will inspire more autistic people like Sean to express themselves creatively and have the opportunity to showcase their skills and abilities.”
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