For Ian Murray, music has been a long-time passion, but learning to play guitar has become so much more than a hobby. It has helped build confidence, connection and a sense of purpose.
Ian first picked up an acoustic guitar back in 1994/95 while living in Tewantin. At the time, he had learned around 10 songs, but over the years, his confidence faded and guitar slowly took a back seat.
That changed in 2019, when Ian included learning guitar as one of his NDIS goals.
With support from his support worker, Ian was connected with a guitar teacher in Bli Bli and officially began lessons in 2020. As a left-handed player, Ian has embraced adapting to what works for him, including using enlarged printed music sheets and the SongBook Pro app on his iPad to help follow along with songs.
In 2024, Ian joined the Coast Acoustic Club on the Sunshine Coast, where fortnightly Wednesday jam sessions and open mic nights opened up a whole new world.
After building his confidence, Ian took a big step in 2024 and performed in front of an audience for the first time.
“I enjoyed the jam and open nights and enjoy the support I get from people in the club like Leanne and Leon, Mark and Chrissy,” Ian shared.
When his teacher stopped teaching in December 2024, Ian kept going, continuing to attend open mic nights and practise his music. In November, he connected with a new teacher, Chris, and by April 2025 felt confident enough to sign up for another open mic performance.
In May 2025, Ian proudly performed I’m Moving On by Hank Snow at the Palmwoods Community Centre, singing while playing guitar in front of a crowd.
Since then, Ian has expanded his repertoire, learning a range of songs including songs by Graeme Connors, Prodigal Son.
A Guide Dogs client since October 1997, Ian says the support he has received over the years has played an important role in building his confidence and independence. He also wanted to recognise the Guide Dogs staff who have supported him throughout his journey.
“Dan and Dr Janet who have worked with me, I really appreciate their work.”
For Ian, guitar has become more than music. It is something he hopes will stay with him for years to come.
“It’s going to help me when I get older when I can’t do other things,” he said.
By adapting the way he learns, leaning on the support around him and taking brave steps outside his comfort zone, Ian has turned a long-time interest into something much bigger, proving that vision loss does not mean giving up the things you love.
