A dream come true

My name is Clark and I live in a small residential home supported by Milestones Trust. I have learning disabilities, autism and I have been blind since birth.

One of my passions is listening to classical music. I especially like Andre Rieu and often spend time listening to him whilst relaxing at home. Andre is from Holland and I never thought I would get the chance to attend one of his concerts, even though it was on my wish list – I never expected it to happen.

Wow, imagine my surprise when I heard from the staff that Andre was performing in Birmingham! I got together with the staff and planned how I would be able to attend. After a bit of discussion, it was all sorted and the tickets were booked.

We traveled by coach to the venue. There was a general knowledge quiz arranged and I could not help sharing my knowledge with others. We stopped for a spot of lunch on the way to break up the journey but soon arrived at our hotel. It was not long before I was ready for the concert. I had bought myself some new clothes for the event and felt very good in my new outfit. I wanted to mark the evening and wore a suit and dickie bow.

When we arrived at the concert, it was amazing! There were lots of people looking forward to the evening and I could hear people chatting about what the concert would be like. We had managed to reserve really good seats and the orchestra came down the aisle right where I was sitting, playing 76 trombones. I could not help joining everyone else singing and clapping as they came down. Lots of old favourites were played during the night and I particularly liked Blue Danube. I had to get back to my feet and swayed to the music, something I would not always be the first to do but I felt so good about being there – I wanted to join in.

All too soon, the concert was over and it was time to return to our hotel. After a good night’s sleep, it was time for breakfast and it was an all you can eat affair and I enjoyed all my favourites. It was time to head home so we boarded the coach and set off for Bristol arriving home in good time. I told everyone about my day and could not wait to share the experience. I would recommend the trip and would love to go again, even though it was on my wish list and I never thought it would happen I have put it on my list again and hope to attend another concert in the future.