A YouTube video of a man playing the piano has recently racked up close to 4 million views. His name is Ryan Arcand and he has unfortunately been living on the street for 30 years. In this video you see him playing the piano in Churchill Square, located in downtown Edmonton (Canada).
Aboriginal Peoples Television Network was able to track him down and let him tell a little bit more about his story.
He is a member of the Alexander First Nation but was raised off reserve in foster care with his younger brother, Blake.
It was in one of those foster homes where the boys eventually found solace through their mutual love of music.
Arcand first fell in love with the piano around age 8. He taught himself to play and wrote his first song, the one from the online video, when he was just 13.
His Aunt, Ruth Arcand, said she always knew the two brothers were talented and she’s happy that her nephew is finally being noticed.
“I want to tell him, ‘Come on, and wake up! This is your chance to get out of this,’” said Ruth. “He doesn’t have to live his life in the dark.”
Hopefully Arcand realizes that he has already touched many people with his music. He mentioned to APTN that he would like to record an album of his music. Maybe finding his brother Blake so the two of them can make music again. Hopefully this new found fame will be just the encouragement he needs to pursue that dream!
Last Updated on December 12, 2023 by Paul G
