by Jacob O’Brien

I’ve been playing guitar on and off since I was 13 years old. When I play music it takes me out of any difficult emotional mental state I may be in. Seeing the enjoyment people get out of listening to music, watching people dancing and having a good time builds my enthusiasm and commitment.

I lost my commitment and enthusiasm after high school because life seemed to get in the way, and I lost the connection to people who had similar interests in music. 

In 2019 I had a motorbike accident that resulted in me learning to live life in a wheelchair. 

While in rehab, I participated in a music program that reignited my interests. After four months in rehab, I returned home and began picking up the guitar again. This has been the catalyst for my recovery and my emotional and mental well-being.

I reconnected with some friends that decided to start up a band, and we did a couple of gigs. Unfortunately that band was not sustainable due to band members’ work commitments. Connections from my previous band led me to the band I am in now, called Vinyl Classic Rock. I auditioned in September 2024, and have been playing with them since.

Most venues are extremely difficult to navigate as a person with a disability, but I always find a way to adapt. I have faced many stages and stairs that are difficult to access. Toilets are also an issue in regional venues, and there is often limited space.

Through trial and error my friends and I have built a pedal board that connects to my wheelchair. This allows me to use my elbow instead of my foot to add effects to my playing.

This does not deter me from playing gigs or playing in the band, and I hope when I play that it raises awareness for people living with a disability. I enjoy the challenge despite the occasional frustrations. I have a great friend that comes to every gig who helps bring all the equipment in and helps the band set up.

Watching people having fun, dancing and seeing them coming up to band members and myself at the end of the gig is really enjoyable and gratifying, as there is a lot of work that goes into working together as a band.

The best benefit is hard to put into words. When a song comes together as a band, the feeling of achievement is immense – it gives you such a buzz.

The long hours required to learn multiple songs, and ensure we are all in sync and sound professional, can be tiring, and it takes time away from my relationship.

We would love to be able to extend our reach further afield into city venues and build our following.

If you have a passion, follow it with commitment. There is always a way around a difficult situation, and don’t be frightened to ask for support. Let people know when you need support and let them know when you don’t.

Jacob’s DIY elbow board: