by Marianne Flood
A clasically-trained singer who has been blind since the age of seven has released his first CD.
Joseph Deery, who is originally from Malin Co.Donegal but now lives in Creggan, has a tenor voice that has been compared to the likes of Josef Locke.
“I see myself as a classical to light classical,” he explained.
“I find it challenging and therefore exciting, and I try and bring skill and technique to it.
“Music, especially singing has always given me great pleasure.
“Braille and Braille Music, in particular, have allowed me to experience for myself the infinite joy and pleasure of written music."
A talented musician, Joseph also plays the guitar, piano, harmonica and mandolin and is an accomplished choral accompanist.
The 35-year-old was born prematurely and had no vision in his right eye from birth.
However, when he was seven he suffered from a detached retina in his left eye, leaving him completely blind.
“I underwent some operations here and in the UK but to no avail,” he explained.
“I was possibly too young to realise the full impact. I think it is much more difficult for people who lose their vision later in life.
“I think it has become a myth though, that you lose one sense and the other one gets turned up.
“What I think happens is that you have to use them more but they are not heightened. You just need to draw out all the information that you can.”
Despite having no vision Joseph lives independently and looks after all his household chores himself.
“There are a lot of gadgets out there now that have made my life a lot easier,” he said.
“I have a screen reader for my laptop that voices whatever is on the screen and I would have talking hobs for cooking.
“There’s an awful lot out there that helps me hugely, coming right down to things like a sock lock that keep your socks together in the washing machine so you don’t lose the matching one.
Songs From the Heart is available from Henderson Music In Bishop Street.
If you have a story or want to send a photo or video to us please contact the Derry Now editorial team on 028 7129 6600 for Derry City stories Or 028 7774 3970 for County Derry stories. Or you can email gareth@derrynews.net at any time.