The love affair with the piano began in whispers of childhood curiosity. I remember watching my father’s rare moments at the keys, his fingers dancing across the ivory in fleeting performances that planted seeds of wonder in my young heart. Those brief encounters ignited something deep within me – a calling that would shape my musical journey for years to come.
High school became my musical awakening. During vacations in my hometown, I found myself drawn to any piano within reach. From humble church gatherings to grand apostolic conventions, from quiet school prayer grounds to vibrant Pentecostal services – if there was a piano, I was there. The instrument became my daily bread, each key pressed a step closer to understanding its magic. University life intensified this passion. I immersed myself in learning, downloading countless tutorial videos, studying techniques with an almost obsessive dedication. But something unexpected happened along the way – I discovered more than just music. In those hours of practice, I found God’s presence resonating through every note. The piano became more than an instrument; it became a gateway to divine connection, each key touching not just strings but the very core of my soul.
The echo of this holy communion with music led me through the piano shop’s doors on that cold, overcast day. The sky was overcast, and a chill hung in the air, but I was determined to rent the Yamaha Piano for the Christmas Convention the following week. As a music director and pianist, I needed to ensure the keyboard was a good synthesizer with excellent warm piano tones. Bundled up in my favorite sweater over my African wear, I made my way to the shop, anticipation building with each step.
As I entered the store, the warm glow of the lights and the scent of polished wood greeted me. Rows of gleaming pianos stood before me, each one beckoning with the promise of musical inspiration. I couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement as I wandered through the aisles, running my fingers lightly over the keys of each instrument. Finally, I found myself drawn to a particular piano tucked away in a corner of the shop. It seemed to call out to me, its rich tones resonating with a warmth that belied the chill outside. Without hesitation, I took a seat on the bench and began to play, allowing the music to flow from my fingertips. As I lost myself in the melody, I felt that familiar presence wash over me – the same divine connection I’d first discovered years ago.
It was then that I noticed the couple standing nearby, their faces softened by the music. They approached me tentatively, a smile playing at the corners of their lips. “This is so calming,” the woman said softly. “It’s like we’re in church.” I couldn’t help but smile at her words. What amazed me was that, though the song was in my local dialect “Twi,” she deciphered it was a song that declared the praise of God. Here was living proof that music transcends language, that its power to touch souls knows no bounds.
In that moment, the journey from watching my father play to becoming an instrument of worship myself came full circle. Every hour of practice, every moment spent chasing the perfect sound, had led to this – using the gift of music to create sacred spaces wherever the keys could be found.
As I reflected on the encounter later, I was filled with gratitude for the opportunity to be a light to others with my God-given gifts. The words of Psalm 30:11-12 echoed in my mind, reminding me of the transformative power of God’s presence. He has turned my mourning into dancing, clothed me with gladness, and given me a voice to sing His praises. So, as I left the piano shop that day, I did so with a heart full of thanksgiving.
Oh, how sweet the sound of His love divine, In every stroke, in every line. For in the piano’s gentle refrain, I found His peace, I found His name.
And as the couple drew near, Their hearts touched by what they hear. “It’s like we’re in church,” they say, In awe of His presence, in awe of His way.
Notes of Divine Harmony: Michael Nsiah-Nimo
I was grateful for the chance to share God’s love through music, and I was reminded once again of the beauty and joy that can be found in His presence. Truly, He is worthy of all praise and thanks forevermore.
For citations: ProfessingGod.com/[article-url]