Why I started playing the piano for others (and you should too)

This story all started in my grandparents' living room.

So, for a little context, every Friday, my family and I used to visit my grandparents at their condominium. It was nothing fancy; we just ate simple afternoon meals that either my grandparents would prepare or my family would bring in. At the dinner table, we would share stories and lots of laughter. One time, my parents suggested that I (or more like forced me) to play the piano for my grandparents. At that time, I was not thrilled at the request at all. I would roll my eyes, drag myself over to the piano, and play whatever song I practiced the most that week. I didn't understand why they wanted me to play so badly; it felt more like a chore than something that I would willingly do.

But then, something unexpected happened.

As I started playing, I noticed how the room's environment changed. Conversations began to die down, people would turn their heads to listen, and my grandparents would smile and hum along in joy. After I finished playing, beneath the clapping sounds, I felt something that I hadn't quite felt before. It wasn't the feeling of relief that it was over, but actual joy. I soon started to realize that when I played, I wasn't just simply hitting notes on a piano; I was sharing something meaningful that everyone could enjoy.

That shift in perspective changed everything for me.

Now, playing the piano feels like a superpower that enables me to connect with others.

That's why I decided to start volunteering at hospitals to share my music. I wanted to give others the same kind of comfort and happiness that I saw in my family's eyes when I played for them.

This blog is my way of sharing that journey. I'll post stories, reflections, and lessons learned along this journey,

Why You Should Do It Too:

You don't need to be a world-class musician to make a lasting impact on your community. Whether it's through music, sports, art, or virtually anything, sharing something that you are passionate about can bring comfort and connection to the people who need it the most.

Volunteering your time and talents, especially in hospitals, elderly homes, or community centers, can create moments that can truly brighten up someone's day.

My Life Philosophy:

The reason I do what I do is not because I love to play the piano in public; in fact, playing the piano in a public place is the last thing I want to do. However, what makes me continue doing this is my life philosophy: you never know what someone is going through. You will never know if someone just lost their loved ones the other day or if someone just lost their job, they need to support their family, unless they tell you so.

So even when it's uncomfortable for me to play, I still choose to do so. Because if there's even a chance that it can potentially bring someone peace, warmth, or a sense of comfort, then it's worth it. I'll go deeper into the moments I have encountered that further reinforce my philosophy in later blogs.

For now, I would like to show you one of my favorite images of me playing the piano with my dad as a kid.

Stay tuned