Roel Wigman

I feel very honored to be able to write a piece for this website. Listening to and playing music is one of my greatest passions, with classic rock being especially to my taste. A day without music is a day not lived! My name is Roel Wigman, and I was born in the beautiful year 1990. Ruud and I have known each other now for about two and a half years, and we play together regularly. During this time, I have learnt a lot of new  music, and he has taught me some cool tricks.

But I forgot to tell you one important fact: I have Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, a progressive muscle disease that causes my muscles to weaken. Because of this, my hand function is limited, and my lung capacity is less than 20%. Due to these limitations, it is of course very difficult to play a musical instrument. I used to play recorder but had to stop because of my disability. Ruud gave me another chance to play an instrument.

He knows how to achieve this because he uses sheet music specifically adapted to my ability. He has also adapted the electric saxophone with an extended mouthpiece and low microphone stand on which to place the instrument . As a bonus, you can also borrow an instrument so you can practice at home. The lessons are always very pleasant. Sometimes, the hydro-therapist of the rehabilitation center joins us with some nice drumming.

In addition, I play occasionally with my brother Tom. Tom plays the keyboard, and I play the electric saxophone. To help Ruud’s foundation, I have done some demonstrations at the Support Exhibition in Utrecht.

So to summarize I say: My Breath My Music is the best!