Music Notes: Answering the call to play the piano
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Music Notes: Answering the call to play the piano
In Music Notes, I will share my thoughts on how the piano teaches me not only about music but also about life. I was reminiscing during National Piano Month, saying to myself, “The piano has always been a part of my life”. From my days as a young child in the church learning methodic gospel hymnals to musical theatre in high school to singing and writing my own songs.
It wasn’t until I began to learn how to play the piano that I became intimately involved with this magnificent instrument. Sort of like having a childhood friend that you grew up with but didn’t get to know until later in life once you began to work together. You discover many components to their character, personality, and dynamic nature drawing you closer as the years go by. This is how I feel now about the piano. As I’m learning more and more through my awesome teacher Sam Lupica, I am inspired by the limitless ways sound from these 88 keys can be used to share music with the world.
I’ve been taking piano lessons for two years now with my amazing teacher, Sam Lupica. When I called him to express my desire to play the piano, Sam did not hesitate a moment to embark on this musical journey with me. He was excited about the prospect of teaching his first blind student and what this collaboration would do to enhance his teaching methodology. I was eager and nervous about whether or not I would be able to accomplish my goal of playing this instrument I have always loved.
From time to time, each month, I will share some of these thoughts with you in my “Music Notes” column on my blog. I hope you will enjoy sitting beside me at the piano and vicariously playing and learning along with me.
Answering the call to play the piano
Read Teach me to play read here: https://debrahillsings.com/sam
When I first heard the voice of God whispering in my ear, “You should learn to play the piano“, I gave my usual response, “What you talkin’ about Willis.” Over the years I have discovered that God likes to catch me by surprise and tell me to do something beyond my wildest dreams. God would probably prefer that I just listen to His commands and simply obey them. But, I seem to have always had a problem with that. Just ask my momma who had to put up with all my childish questions which began with, but why?
I thank God that He doesn’t seem to mind talking with me in that patient, loving voice. He knows that my questions are my way of expressing my anxieties, fears, and uncertainties about whether or not I am capable of completing the tasks. Remember Moses’s hesitancy (KJV Exodus 3:1-10) when he was conversing with the burning bush. He made up all kinds of excuses about his deficiencies. God reassured him that He would be with him and help.
As time passed, I began to pray about learning to play the piano, and several words of assurance came to me. I was reminded that my brother Clifford taught himself how to play the piano by ear. I was amazed as I watched him week after week going from ear-splitting banging on the keys to ultimately the certain and clear notes of familiar church hymnals. If he could do that, then I could certainly try. I had the piano teacher Sam on my contact list. Now that was a name from the past. Sam had been both of my daughter’s piano teachers when they were young, over twenty-five years ago.
Finally, I decided to trust God and know that He always has a purpose and a plan and if I do His will, it will all work out for my good. I know that whatever I am asked to do is for His Glory not my own. It will ultimately inspire others and lead them to see the love of Christ. As I answered the call and picked up my phone to call Sam this scripture came to mind. “Let your light shine before men so they will see your good works but glorify your Father in heaven” (KJV Matthew 5:16).
Sam and I have had the pleasure of talking in person to people who are blind or have low vision about our piano lessons. Our goal is to inspire everyone to pursue their passions. We will be happy to come and present our experiences, our insights, and our stories, and how our collaborations have led us to not only play music but also unite in learning about life.
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Debra and her piano teacher Sam enjoy going out into the community to share the story of how she learned to play the piano. They encourage anyone to continue their passions when facing certain imitations. Do not let it stop you from pursuing your goals.
Debra Hill
Debra Hill is an independent inspirational singer, author, songwriter, and writer. As a blind performer, she adds a personal story of God’s faithfulness. Her life exemplifies that Christ’s power will work to lift all regardless of circumstances.
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