There is a saying: “A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty”.

If anyone is an optimist, it is Darien Williams, one of the many contestants and participants in the July 2010 AAA Festival in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Darien is nineteen years old, born blind and autistic. But does that stop him from loving music and particularly, his accordion? Definitely not!

According to his devoted mother, Starlene Williams (pictured), who accompanies him to his accordion lessons with Mary Kathryn Archuleta in San Antonio, Texas, “Darien was born with perfect pitch and a love of music. At the age of 10 months, he played the organ. He only has to hear a song once and then plays it correctly. He is a true gift to our family. We are so proud of him.”

Darien has played the piano for many years. He only started the accordion about six months ago. He loves playing his accordion, and singing in church and with friends.

At the AAA Festival not only did he win a trophy but he also played with the Alamo Angels Accordion Ensemble, the accordion grouped organized by Mary Kathryn Archuleta, Executive Director of Dreams Fulfulled through Music whose mission is to develop personal accomplishment, social growth, and self-esteem through Music Education and Performance Opportunities.

Darien reads Braille and is a positive thinker with an excellent self image. And, why not? He is handsome, talented and much loved by his mother, Starlene, three older brothers, Najja, Nahshon, and Sammil, and all of his many friends.

Darien has a busy music schedule ahead. He is performing at Morgan’s Wonderland and will play with the Alamo Angels Accordion Ensemble at the San Antonio Spurs game on August 4th.

For further information about the remarkable Darien Williams: 210-815-7798 and info@alamoangels.org.