A GIFTED man with learning difficulties has been praised for beating the odds and passing a music exam.

Viola player Christopher Tucker has achieved a Grade 3 distinction, after only a year of learning how to read music.

Mr Tucker previously learned how to play the instrument by simply hearing the notes and his teacher, Oleksandra Jennings, says it is very unusual for people to reach the standard so quickly.

The 44-year-old, of Hibbert Road, Walthamstow, said: “There are eight grades all together and it can take a year for anyone to learn one grade or sometimes two years. I am very proud of him for getting this award. It is not an easy thing to do because as a person gets older, it gets harder.

“It also shows he is very gifted and has a good ear for music.”

Mr Tucker said: “I am really happy that I’ve been able to get this certificate.

“I couldn’t believe It when I found out I got a distinction because I wasn’t sure how I would do with the sight reading.”

The 15-minute exam in December, run by the Associated Board of The Royal Schools of Music, included playing three violin pieces from sight reading and singing a song back after hearing it to test musical memory.

Mr Tucker is now making his own viola with the help of his teacher.

Mrs Jennings added: “Martin was very determined and it has been a very fulfilling experience for me and I look forward to continue teaching him.”