Concert Pianist Plays Classical Music To Rehabilitate Injured And Blind Elephants In Thailand

animals are truly a gift from God. And for animal lovers, elephants are one of the most majestic creatures. These incredible animals may look big and scary sometimes, but they can be so gentle and affectionate. If you don't believe us, and need more proofs, just scroll down to read this post.
Meet Paul Barton, a concert pianist and artist who is from Yorkshire, England. After graduating from the Royal Academy of Arts in London, he decided to start a career as a concert pianist. Thanks to his brilliant performances, he quickly became famous. However, he soon realized that this way of life was just not for him. He decided to use his talent to rescue poor animals, especially elephants.

Source: Paul Barton

The musician and pianist fell in love with elephants when he went to Thailand with his wife in 1996. Ever since then, he has helped to rehabilitate elephants at Elephant World sanctuary. Previously, Paul had worked with blind children and witnessed how music helped transform their lives. For this reason, he decided to test this on blind elephants.
Paul has played the piano to save elephants in Thailand since 2011. He performed all kinds of classical music from famous artists such as Bach, Beethoven and Schubert. It’s absolutely amazing to witness animals standing next to him, listening to music, and seemingly mesmerized by classical compositions.

Source: Paul Barton

"If you play classical music for an elephant... This response is invaluable,” said the pianist. “There is a special bond between you and the elephant."
Over the years, Barton has played for many elephants and has formed relationships with many of them. Most of his audiences were rescued from the logging industry, which was banned in Thailand in 1989. Many have been blinded or injured due to being abused during carrying trees. Thankfully, they are now cared for and loved by staff at Elephant World, a sanctuary on the River Kwai in Kanchanaburi, Thailand.

Source: Paul Barton

The elephant Mongkol is one of his audiences who was rescued from captivity carrying trees for a logging company. “Every now and then, Mongkol would stop by the piano while walking along the river,” explains Barton of his interactions with the gentle creature. “If we notice he’s waiting, I’ll come over and play him some slow classical music.”
This is such amazing work that Paul is doing, and we are so glad that he’s documenting his concerts. Scroll down to see!



h/t: Laughing Squid