Sometimes it’s not talent alone that helps a singer grasp a large amount of attention. For some artists, dressing or doing their makeup a certain way, having a certain personality trait, or tieing a specific catchphrase or word to their name is part of what makes them an eye-catching star. Take Lady Gaga as an example: before we loved her for her raw talent, we gravitated toward her unique, space-age costumes and wigs.
However, it’s not just singers who must market themselves in a certain way to grow their audience. Ex-Latin teacher and professional London-based musician, Brendan Kavanagh, occasionally wears the outfits of different professions when he performs his incredible piano-playing in public as a creative way to reel in passersby.
Although Kavanagh’s talent alone is quite remarkable without the disguises, one of his public piano performances wearing a plaid shirt with a yellow vest overtop, a casual pair of jeans, work boots, a tool belt, and a hard hat has people going wild. A video of his performance has even racked up a whopping 3,500,000+ views since it was posted on July 27, 2018!
During his performance at the Station, Kavanagh would no doubt receive double-takes from random passersby who might have expected a highly-skilled piano player like himself to have gelled-back hair and an ironed, spotless suit.
As the “construction worker” is quickly and flawlessly tickling the ivories of what he considers to be a “spontaneous improvisation,” people of all ages line up filming him on their phones and cameras. Others walking by with luggage stare but continue their journey to their destination.
Nevertheless, all eyes were on Kavanagh and all for a good reason: he’s got skill! Listening to Kavanagh play the piano is like listening to a recording of Beethoven.
Although the costumes Kavanagh wears do not resemble his actual profession, they not only help him receive more attention, they also help send an indirect message that regardless of your profession, you can make your dreams come true if you have a talent or passion for something outside of your current career path.
While he’s not a real construction worker, Brendan Kavanagh holds a Ph.D. in English Language and Literature from University College Cork which he earned in 2003. In 2007, he became the founder and CEO of Dr. K Media Limited, a “multi-platform, interactive boogie, blues, and rock n roll piano coaching and consultancy internet service” business. The talented musician has also played in many well-known bands throughout his career including Dexy’s Midnight Runners, the Jools Holland Big Band, and The Pet Shop Boys.
Check out Brendan’s breathtaking performance in the video below! If you enjoyed it, check out more of his public performances from his YouTube channel.