When a 30-something couple moved to Hawaii, they never imagined they would befriend their 97-year-old neighbor, but his musical talents brought them together, creating viral “dinner and a show” moments that have reached a million viewers.
According to “Good Morning America,” Lydia and Andy Pender moved in 2021 and were quickly intrigued by their neighbor.
Mrs. Pender said, “I would hear constant music coming through the walls … and we just wanted to know who the neighbor was on that side.”
“We just went and introduced ourselves one night,” she added.
They met 95-year-old Derek Peart, who played the piano by ear and used his talents to help him cope with the death of his wife.
The Penders became fast friends with Peart. Mrs. Pender noted, “He was probably the first person we met here. He was one of our first friends. We were just immediately obsessed with him.”
They invited Peart over for dinner one night and watched the Tony Bennett and Lady Gaga special on TV. This began a new “dinner and a show” tradition.
Peart began playing for the Penders and they would share a meal with him. This is now a monthly event.
Mrs. Pender explained, “His personality is very light-hearted and funny. But when he’s playing, he’s definitely more serious.”
“He’s very focused and takes it very seriously. He wants it to be a great show for us,” she went on.
Mrs. Pender started filming the performances and sharing them on TikTok, where she said, “It was the nicest corner of the internet ever.”
Peart speaks very highly of the Penders. He told “GMA,” “I say to people that I have two interesting neighbors. They’re from New York, they’re in their early 30s and they’re both brilliant.”
“I find it fascinating that at this age I’m still able to converse with them intelligently. It’s a thrill for me,” he added.
He then concluded, “When they sit down, and when I see them appreciate what I’m playing, I feel good. It makes me feel good about myself.”
