Leonardo Goran is a skilled multi-instrumentalist whose talent goes well beyond the norm for his age.
Born to two deaf parents in 1997, Leonardo hasn’t had a usual upbringing. Having started his musical journey at a very young age, Leonardo has had plenty of time to experiment with a number of instruments including the saxophone, guitar, the ukulele. Leonardo began taking guitar lessons in 2012 before moving to the Ukulele in 2014.
Leonardo’s thriving passion for the Ukulele was inextinguishable. After two years of perfecting his craft with the instrument, Leonardo put together a stunning video of himself covering the great Jake Shimabukuro’s iconic Ukulele arrangement of ‘While My Guitar Gently Weeps’. Leonardo’s rendition was greatly received and even prompted Shimabukuro to contact him personally.
Shimabukuro praised Leonardo saying; “Hey Leo – it’s Jake. I checked out your video! You sound fantastic!! Love your left-hand work. Keep doing what you’re doing brother. I was very touched by your passion for music. It’s clear that music means a great deal to you. Really proud of what you’re doing, and I’m sure your parents are as well. Take care and all the best to you. Aloha!”
Leonardo has competed on a wealth of occasions; most notably placing second in the soloist category for ages 14 and up in the International Ukulele Competition and Hula Show in Hawaii.
Currently working on his debut album, he plans to donate half of the sales to a foundation to help the deaf to homage to his supportive and loving parents. “My parents have spoiled me and have given me an overwhelming amount of support” he explains. “I feel that I should find a way to give back to humanity. It’s the least of what I can do for the opportunity I have been given.”
Leonardo’s cover of ‘While My Guitar Gently Weeps’ is beautiful. His performance is mesmerising, inspiring and sees him well on his way to finding his trademark sound. To learn more about this young talented musician, head over to his social pages below.
