Article written by Kemal Gorey

Mozart, Mont Blanc, and the Unifying Power of Accessibility

November 26, 2024

By: Kemal Gorey

I've been pondering Mozart's father and Mont Blanc glasses. What possible connection could these seemingly random thoughts have with December 3rd? Probably none, but what if?

As a classically trained musician, reflecting on W.A. Mozart was once commonplace for me. His father, however, was merely a peripheral figure in my studies. Yet, Leopold Mozart was a significant music educator and composer of "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star." His connections in the 18th-century Western art music scene enabled him to manage his son's career. Amadeus, who composed his first piece at the tender age of five, left behind a catalog of 696 works—symphonies, operas, concertos, and more—many still enjoyed today. A remarkable story, but what if Leopold had been a soldier or a blacksmith? Would he have recognized and nurtured his son's talent? Or would Amadeus have been dismissed as the village oddity, uneducated and unworthy?

We are limited by our minds. When faced with the unfamiliar, we often react with fear, anger, or isolation. We collectively dismiss the "unknown." But what if the unknown is an Amadeus?

As a blind media composer, my primary concern is accessibility. From education and tools to roads, networks, jobs, and family, accessibility is paramount. Inaccessible education hinders learning, inaccessible tools impede creation, and inaccessible communities limit social integration. Without emotional accessibility within my family, I would lack essential support. This is "ableism." However, let's focus on the core concept: accessibility. Accessibility transformed Amadeus into Mozart. He had access to education, instruments, and a father who understood music. How many potential Mozarts—composers, writers, scientists, and academics—have we lost due to inaccessibility?

Accessibility is a universal requirement. From basic needs to complex aspirations, accessibility is the key that unlocks potential for everyone. Imagine if Stephen King had a motor disability. Inaccessible typewriters or pencils might have prevented us from encountering Carrie or "The Shining," simply because society failed to invent accessible writing tools during his childhood. This is a mindset shift we must embrace. When venues, campuses, or even basic apps are inaccessible, we risk losing brilliant minds and unique perspectives.

Now, about those Mont Blanc glasses. As a visually impaired individual, my life revolves around ophthalmologists and a symbiotic relationship with glasses, bulky optics, and other tools. These instruments, despite technological advancements, often lack aesthetic appeal. This design flaw extends to other accessibility tools for various disabilities. The lack of design in accessibility tools sends a message to users and reflects on designers and society. Imagine if Mont Blanc designed a stylish magnifier or Mercedes Benz crafted a sleek wheelchair. This isn't about luxury; it's about recognizing that people with disabilities have diverse needs and desires, just like everyone else.

In the 21st century, humanity's ultimate goal should be universal accessibility. This is the path to progress, evolution, and finding peace.