Al Daniels: Struttin’ and Strummin’ [video]

Tuesdays Al Daniels walks from his downtown residence along the sidewalks of the Green to the to play his mandolin for lunchtime diners. Though challenged through blindness – Daniels was born with glaucoma has been blind since age 6 – he remains upbeat and positive. Of his weekly trek to play for the patrons of the CDR, Daniels said, “I try to play something inspirational to give them the right attitude.”

Daniels is a member of the Branford Folk Music Society and often plays mandolin or guitar as a volunteer with the . He said he visits area nursing homes with other church members to play a musical worship service. Content to entertain, Daniels said, “Someday I’ll even get paid for playing music!”

Daniels began playing instruments at 13 when he picked up the guitar. When asked how long he’s been playing for, he wouldn’t answer, quick to realize we were fishing to learn his age. “I’m Jack Benny’s age, 39,” he laughed.

A longtime resident of Branford, Daniels held a job at a concession counter on Orange Street in New Haven for sometime but music has always been his passion.

Growing up, Daniels shared that he did get a chance to ride a bike before completely losing his vision but he never had the opportunity to drive a car. “I often think,” he commented, “what it would be like to live your life as a sighted person.”

He said he’s never seen a rainbow but he’s not one to dwell on what isn’t, for long. Daniels said he was one of the first people ever to be mainstreamed in a traditional school system as opposed to being sent to a special blind school. There were benefits and drawbacks he shares, explaining that he didn’t get a chance to learn brail or voice recognition as early as other blind students.

Daniels did learn to play music and he does it quite well (you can book him for gigs by calling 203-488-7348). He’s also witty and quick and knows about computers and the changing pace of technology. If you ever get the chance to stop and talk with Daniels, it’s a conversation you will find you quite enjoy. And if you are lucky enough to hear him play a tune, it’s an experience you are likely to remember.