Left-handed piano player chooses triumph over tragedy

After a terrible injury left him with only the use of one hand, Norman Malone never thought he'd be able to play piano again. Years later, the people in his Chicago apartment building are still hearing the music. Steve Hartman went "On the Road" to hear it himself.

[christarosenyc]

"It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men." ~Frederick Douglass

The light and beauty in Norman Malone is present in his voice, his eyes, and his music. Even that horrid night couldn't take music from him. He grew up to become a choral instructor so he could share his love of music with children. After all, it saved him, so of course it can save others.

And I couldn't help but see in that footage taken at his performance that somewhere in him that sweet boy who survived such brutality lives on. And shines on, 70 years later.

Frederick Douglass was absolutely right. It is so much easier to build children up than to repair adults from the trauma of life. The arts, music, dance, writing, and all creative outlets help us hang on to our very essence and give us the opportunity to share it with others. I am heart-broken by Norman's story, and I am also immensely inspired by it. Art saves. Art heals. Art perseveres.

[buddyglynn]

Such a great and humble man. We have much to learn from Norman Malones gumption, grace and humility. Would love to hear him in concert.

Very incredible man. Love his story, modesty, triumph, playing, and what a beautiful home! Truly an inspiration.

[becca]

What a beautiful, courageous man. Thank you for continuing with your music, it is healing for you and healing for a wounded world.

[Dragonrose]

"Your hand may be stilled; but your gift cannot be silenced if you refuse to let it be."

[markwillcox]

This was my most favorite story I have ever seen on Sunday morning, I never miss every Sunday, what a remarkable, humble gentleman, with such a gentle sprit!! He should write a book about his life, and how he managed to a fine

A noble human being. My heart is deeply touched. Such beautiful playing! Obviously he has invested himself in the lives of others to give them something beautiful! Norman Malone is a hero! Thank you, CBS Evening News, for putting this on the air.

[estellefranklin]

I am just seeing this.  Just wonderful.  Met Norman a few years ago.  Lost touch!  Glad to hear of this debut!

[thedarci]

What an amazing and talented wonderful

[MrIsaacbao]

It is Chopin's Etude, Op.10, no.3 transcribed for the left hand alone by Leopold Godowsky who by the way made over 20 transcriptions of Chopin's Etudes for left hand alone. Many are posted on youtube.
Isaac Bao

[Charrisnemtblueprint]

Steve Hartman sure does know how to pull on your heartstrings, doesn't he???❤❤❤

[Ziggyone]

you go normen good for you i'm also 1 handed piano player after a left sided stroke in 2014 your a inspiration to me bud

[DDDDDDD]

A wonderful man and a great story of survival and courage 👏🏽

[spgtenor]

What, no thumbs down yet? I'm surprised, especially in this world of anonymous venom.

This is truly amazing and touching, just beautiful. This is why I go on Youtube. Uplifting stories, beautiful music that conjures up such emotions and represents the best of our species.

[girlmusician]

Because he can overcome his disabilities and adversities to be a great pianist and musician, I can do it too.

[gloriataylor]

Great lesson in not giving up. We conquer the evil with the good, as God's Word tells us. This gentle man did exactly that! He

[dacypher]

Wonderful story, but I am curious: why are there so many left hand piano songs? Are they typically used by pianists to build strength and accuracy in what is most people's weak, uncoordinated hand?

[SORRYILOVEHER]

即便一個如惡魔般的父親，仍然無法打破他的夢想。

我相信他是天使，此份光芒才能永久不被抹滅。

[macsnafu]

I was just looking for left-handed players--I didn't need a tragic backstory to go with it! 😕

[TheBtrout]

What piece was he playing at the end? I've heard it many times, and can't seem to find out what it is.