Cultural Leadership Nicholas Mccarthy
Talks & Ideas
Accessible Performances

Born without a right hand in 1989, Nicholas McCarthy made history when he became the only one-handed pianist ever to graduate from London’s Royal College of Music, in July 2012. Since then, he has performed extensively in the UK and internationally including for the 2015 edition of Belfast International Arts Festival. He has guest presented for the BBC Proms and delivered several inspiring TED talks. He also played at the 2012 Paralympics closing ceremony alongside Coldplay.

In this special event, co-hosted with Theatre and Dance NI, Nicholas – this year’s BIAF Featured Artist – will speak about his life and career in music, what he has learned along the way and on the importance of being underestimated.

Please join us for this stimulating discussion and stay on afterwards to meet Nicholas and other guests over a complimentary glass of wine or soft drink.


This event will feature live captioning. Our access services are made possible by the generous support of the Halifax Foundation.