Homeless piano prodigy stunned by his remarkable makeover (Ex-Marine)

Inside Edition/AOL.com ^ | July 6, 2015 | Inside Edition

[PROCON]

Donald Gould sat down at a piano at a public arts exhibit in Sarasota, Florida, and played. The images of him with his scraggly beard, unwashed hair, and dirty clothes making magic at the keyboard were seen around the world.

In an INSIDE EDITION exclusive, we're giving this homeless man, who is a former Marine, the break he deserves -- Donald Gould is going to get cleaned up.

First, a new wardrobe for him at Sarasota's Island Pursuit. Gould tried on an outfit in a dressing room.

When he came out of the dressing room, he said: "People won't recognize me."

Next stop: The Gent Essential Barber Spa. It'll be his first haircut and shave in 18 months.

Within two days the video received more than two million views.

Now, Gould has a chance for a new beginning.

[PROCON]

This man is truly a remarkable pianist.

If you haven't already seen it, here's the video.

I hope he turns his life around.

[MeganC]

Likewise. He’s been on my mind and in my prayers. He also got me interested in Styx!

[PROCON]

Have you heard this guy?

[Ann Archy]

They have been playing him on the radio here in Sarasota, and I had NO idea of what he looked like! He is A FABULOUS pianist!!

[mjp]

I hope someone checked his hair for nits

[cripplecreek]

He will be returning to Michigan where Spring Arbor college is giving him a full ride scholarship to finish his music degree. I wish him well, but hope the underlying issues are dealt with first.

Spring Arbor college is somewhat of a sister college to Hillsdale college.

University offering homeless piano player full ride to finish degree

[boycott]

..... but hope the underlying issues are dealt with first.

---

The underlying issues may have just been a run of bad luck. I really don’t know the man’s history.

[Liberty Valance]

bttt

[cripplecreek]

Spring Arbor college is bringing this guy back to finish his education.



Michigan legislative action thread

[sand88]

The underlying issues may have just been a run of bad luck. I really don’t know the man’s history.

At the link, the guy said he lost it after his wife's suicide. I hope he turns his life around.

[caww]

[PROCON]

Wow, that’s real great news!

[Mrs. Don-o]

Oh, may the Good Lord bless him a thousand times. Sure hopehe keeps is feet on the ground, his heart in hope, his hands on the keyboard!!

[caww]

His family shared with INSIDE EDITION that Gould was born gifted. Even as a youngster, he could pick up any instrument and play it instantly.

He studied music at Spring Arbor University in Michigan, but dropped out before graduating. He enlisted in the Marines and played the clarinet in the Marine Corps band, which plays at official presidential functions.

But in 1998, Gould’s wife committed suicide, and his family said his life spiraled.

“I just kinda lost it”

[Mase]

Donald Gould is a well known figure in Sarasota and he’s had a tough life due to substance abuse. Don has been arrested many, many times for drugs, and his wife died from an overdose. He says he has a son who just graduated from high school. I also believe he was originally asked to leave Spring Arbor College due to drugs. He has a lot of problems and has refused help in the past. I hope this new found fame will motivate him to change his life.

[truth_seeker]

Over 2/3 of homeless are addicts/alcoholics and/or mentally ill.

Don’t know in his case, but it would be probable. Both can be overcome.

Chances are unless he truly wants to change, he will not get there.

[boycott]

Thanks. I hope he does turn his life around.

[PROCON]

Thanks for the pics and info.

[caww]

Ryan Arcand is another one who’s now off the streets, plays the piano at his new home....20 years on the streets....says he often thinks he's not deserving of this kindness shown him. He's at a facility which helps him overcome his alcoholism

[caww]