Despite their occasional tantrums, it’s hard to find anything a 3-year-old does that isn’t adorable. Sometimes, their cuteness surpasses expectations, leaving you in awe. Remember the Italian preschooler who gestured like a seasoned Sicilian grandmother? Or the 3-year-old contemplating the meaning of friendship? How about the little one convinced her favorite Disney characters had called her? Just when you think you’ve seen it all, another delightful moment comes along—like a tiny singer with a top bun, ready to melt hearts again.
Meet 3-year-old Nicholas Protsenko, who sings in public while his 6-year-old brother, Leo, plays piano, and sometimes with their older sister, Karolina, on violin. This talented family often performs on sidewalks, bringing joy to passersby. Recently, Nicholas’s rendition of “You Raise Me Up” has captured hearts online. Not only does he sing the entire song from memory, but there’s something deeply moving about a 3-year-old belting out lines like, “I am strong when I am on your shoulders / You raise me up to more than I can be.”
While Josh Groban popularized the song in the U.S., it was originally performed by the Irish-Norwegian group Secret Garden, with music by Rolf Løvland and lyrics by Brendan Graham. Though the song has been covered countless times, Nicholas’s version stands out for its charm and heartfelt delivery.
Comments on his performance highlight the overwhelming praise:
• “That is an absolutely amazing performance from a three-year-old . . . well done, Nicholas.”
• “What a cutie patootie. Well done, Nicholas. The whole family is musically gifted and a joy to watch.”
• “Nothing is better than this! Filling my heart and soul to overflow. Thank you, little ones!”
• “My soul needed this. Let him know he did a great job and made my day.”
Nicholas’s musical talent is no surprise given his family’s background. His sister Karolina gained fame after performing at Santa Monica’s promenade and appearing on The Ellen Show at age 10, amassing millions of followers. The Protsenko family has shared their children’s musical journey on social media, spreading joy to their followers.
One fan commented, “These kids are phenomenal. I’ve watched them grow musically—Karolina playing violin while Leo banged on toy drums and Nicholas pretended to play guitar. Now, Leo plays the keyboard effortlessly, and Nicholas sings full songs on key. He’s only three, but he remembers all the words. It’s amazing!”
Nicholas’s ability to sing an entire song with accompaniment at such a young age is remarkable. Videos of him singing at home, in church, and on street corners show not only his talent but also how much he enjoys performing.