South African piano prodigy Jason Haas has just received a surprise gift during a Drakensberg Boys Choir concert, showcasing the power of community and determination.
Johannesburg, South Africa (03 March 2024) – Jason Haas’ story of passion, perseverance, and the power of community captured the nation’s attention, and now we have the update you have all been waiting for! The 15-year-old piano prodigy’s journey from the keys of his grandmother’s piano to desperately trying to crowdfund for his own instrument, to the stage of the Drakensberg Boys Choir School embodies the essence of musical magic.
From the tender age of 4, Jason’s fingers danced across the keys of his grandmother’s old piano, captivated by the melodies that seemed to unlock a world of possibilities. With no formal training, he defied the odds and began playing complex classical pieces by ear, showcasing a raw talent that left audiences in awe.
Jason’s mother, Leanne Haas, a single parent, beams with pride as she reflects on her son’s journey. “I am extremely proud of Jason’s accomplishments and his ‘Go-getter’ attitude in life,” she shares.
Despite facing challenges and growing up without a father figure, Jason’s resilience and determination have been unwavering. Driven by his passion for music, Jason took the initiative to launch a crowdfunding campaign, aiming to acquire a secondhand baby grand piano but the donations have been very slow to trickle in.
His story caught the attention of the nation when it was featured by Good Things Guy, sparking a wave of support and goodwill.
“Desperate for a piano of his own to practice on, Jason set up a BackaBuddy account to help fund this dream. The Good Things Guy learned of his story and featured him in an article that went viral.” – Drakensberg Boys Choir.
“A Drakensberg Boys Choir family, which came across the article, was deeply moved by his story, passion and dedication to his music and decided that they could help make his dream a reality.”
But all of this was happening without Jason or Leanne knowing.
Megan Dittberner, a Drakensberg Boys Choir School mom, contacted Good Things Guy to ask us to connect them with the family in order for them to gift him the new piano, but the school wanted it to be special, so a plan was set in place.
The Bertacco family, alongside Dragonview Lodge and FLaVR SA, came together to provide Jason with a keyboard, accessories, and a memorable stay at the picturesque Champagne Valley.
The school invited Jason and Leanne to one of their concerts which would take place on the 2nd of March. The Haas family agreed (and were very excited to go). It was their first time visiting the beautiful Champagne Valley and the Drakensberg Boys Choir School. In between the harmonious melodies, Jason was invited to perform alongside the choir, unaware of the extraordinary gift awaiting him.
“It was ABSOLUTELY, NOTHING SHORT OF AMAZING!” Leanne told Good Things Guy.
“I was sobbing throughout Jason’s performance. I was just the proudest mom, in that moment. Seeing my son on that stage, I knew that this was a life-changing experience for him.”
As the concert reached its crescendo, Head Boy Kayden Mulder and Grade 8 chorister Michael Dittberner unveiled the heartfelt surprise – a keyboard, specially gifted to Jason to nurture his musical journey.
The gift from the Drakensberg Boys Choir is absolutely amazing. Jason is very, very thankful. We just want to say THANK YOU to everyone who contributed to this.”
“I am so humbled and thankful to everyone for the generosity and kindness they have shown us. The Drakensberg Boys Choir community, the Bertacco family and the owners, the managers Richard and Julie, and the staff of Dragonview were amazing. Everyone was just amazing”
The Drakensberg Boys Choir School, honoured to be part of Jason’s journey, wishes him a future illuminated by the harmonies of success.
Good Things Guy cannot wait to see this story unfold and we look forward to bringing you more updates about Jason as he continues to inspire with his talent and tenacity.
Thank you, Jason, for reminding us all that dreams can and do come true!
by 