From silence to symphony: How a family discovered their son's voice through music
Abu Dhabi: There is a particular kind of waiting that only parents know. It is the waiting for a first word. For a sign. For some small clue to who your child is and where he is going. For the Al Hashemi family, that wait lasted longer than most. Ahmed began to speak only after the age of six. Those were years of questions. How do we understand him? How do we reach him? What does he need from us…
In Abu Dhabi, a family's journey to discover their son's voice through music began long before he could speak a word. Ahmed Al Hashemi, now 16, is an Emirati pianist and composer who found his passion for music at the age of six, after years of waiting for a sign that he would communicate. His mother, Eiman Al Aleeli, recalls how the family navigated this period through ordinary family life, finding clues in everyday experiences rather than grand moments.
But Ahmed's story is just one of three in the Al Hashemi household, each with its unique path. His brothers, Abdullah and Eissa, found their own ways to express themselves as well. Abdullah, now a young content creator who loves animals and aspires to be a veterinarian, and Eissa, who enjoys creating educational content in French, Arabic, and English to share Emirati culture and traditions.
The Al Aleeli family emphasizes not choosing their children's dreams for them, but instead opening opportunities for them to explore and offering support as they discover their interests.
Through therapy and by involving Ahmed in various experiences, the family learned what helped him feel comfortable. Music emerged as a powerful means of expression for Ahmed, who quickly learned and remembered melodies. They found a piano teacher, and what began as a small step grew into a lifelong journey. The family's approach to supporting Ahmed's musical development was gradual and focused on his interests, rather than forcing a specific direction.
Similarly, Abdullah's curiosity about the animal world was nurtured through visits to zoos, farms, and meetings with specialists. Eissa, always eager to learn new words and connect with people, began sharing French with his family at home. Throughout their experiences, the Al Aleeli family maintained a non-comparative approach, encouraging each son to follow his own path and fostering a sense of pride in their individuality.
The overarching goal, Eiman emphasizes, is to instill humility and a deep appreciation for their family's uniqueness.
Written by urgent.news from Gulf News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
