Jason Dennis

(Canada)

Jason Dennis has amazing drumming skills. While diagnosed with Williams syndrome, a genetic condition that includes severe learning disabilities, an inability to perform common tasks and an extreme lack of coordination, this syndrome also includes having musical skills. To enhance his natural talent, he trained with Roger Banks, a recording artist for Warner Brothers and with K.B. O'Connell, another professional drummer.

Jason has appeared on 60 Minutes with Morley Safer and participated in a French documentary which was produced for European audiences. He has performed with performed in two "Potential Unlimited" concerts in Poughkeepsie, N. Y. with members of the Hudson Valley Philharmonic Orchestra. As well he played at the living Arts center in Mississauga doing rhythm accompaniment for a "Broadway Review". Jason and his band are also frequently heard playing in clubs throughout the area. Jason and his band have a wonderful gift of engaging all who attend their performances.

As part of both Abilities Arts Festival 2005 and 2006, Jason Dennis and his band performed to a full house of children and youth with disabilities at "In Celebration of our Children and Youth".