Flink Jazz

In the vast musical lexicon of jazz pianists, one might note Scott Joplin, Herbie Hancock or Toledo’s Art Tatum, but will Mason Flink come to be included in that list?

When one thinks of Texas, jazz music is not, most likely the first concept that comes to mind, but Flink is a National Merit Finalist and perhaps a future concert pianist. That wouldn’t be all that astounding except for one fact: Flink has eight fingers.

Born with ulnar dysplasia (also know as ulnar club hand) Flink has dealt with having a limited right hand, playing melodies with just three digits. One might than assume that his playing is rhythmically focused given to ragtime concepts or barrel house blues, but it’s not. His playing can even touch on classical compositions including the likes of Chopin.

Another assumption might be that Flink has issues with his physical limitations, but since these have been with him since birth, he doesn’t really think of it too much. What he does focus on is displaying his talents, whether it’s writing, playing music or sports in part to show others that even with a physical anomaly anyone can accomplish whatever task they set out to.

One manner in which he has set out to do this is to perform at benefits. Flink’s latest appearance in such a venue was set up through his church – an important part of his life. Performing at the Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children, Flink sought to display his musical prowess while raising awareness of an organization that, amidst this economy, needs support from every sector of his community.