that he becomes, as it were, inspired. He played several
pieces on this occasion from memory, and displayed great
execution, and a greater amount of feeling and expression
than we were prepared to expect. One of the best of these
was the fantasia on the Hundredth Psalm, which was
brilliantly executed. One of his most extraordinary feats is
the reproduction of any piece once played over to him. On
this occasion, Mr. Laurie, who was present, at the
invitation of the manager ascended the platform, and played
a composition by R. Muller, which occupied nearly five
minutes. He no sooner left the instrument than 'Blind Tom'
took his seat, and gave a correct imitation. His ability to
name any combination of notes, no matter how disconnected
and puzzling the intervals, was fully proved. The
professional gentleman we have named struck simultaneously
no less than twenty notes on the piano; and these 'Blind
Tom' named without a single mistake."
From "The Dundee Advertiser:"--
"'BLIND TOM.'--This extraordinary musical prodigy gave two
performances in Dundee yesterday, and on each occasion the
powers displayed by him were so marvellous as to verge upon
the miraculous. Our readers must not suppose that his
proficiency is merely of an ordinary kind, or that his
notoriety is another species of Barnumism. The letter we
published yesterday from a private friend, in whose opinions
we place the greatest confidence, shows that it is not so;
and we believe the opinions of all who yesterday heard him
will be found to be those of astonishment and admiration.
History affords no parallel to 'Blind Tom.' His ability
would be marvellous, even if he had his eyesight; but, as we
have before remarked, when it is considered that he is
blind, it is beyond measure strange. Unless one sees or
hears him play, he is unable properly to understand the
extent of his ability. Test him how you may, he never fails.
His memory is as miraculous as his musical powers; and he
plays over a piece he has never heard before with almost
infallible exactitude. Yesterday several gentlemen went to
the platform, and played over pieces; and, during the time
they were so occupied, it was amusing to witness Tom's
contortions of his body, and his movements generally. He
swayed
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