I remember like it was yesterday.
I was 12 years old and my mom had just bought me my first “real” keyboard. I don’t recall much but I do remember being at Guitar Center all day long as she master negotiated the lowest deal possible. It was like we were buying a car.
By the end of the day, we walked out of there with a new keyboard, amplifier, stand, bag, sustain pedal, and cords — all for the price of just a keyboard! (I wish I could do that these days at the car dealership. I’m usually like “give me that one!” “Where do I sign?”)
Prior, I had a radio shack keyboard. Don’t get me wrong, it did the job and along with my grandma’s antique piano, I had more than enough to develop my skills (“It don’t matter where you start… only where you finish.”)
Unfortunately, the excitement of owning a real keyboard was short-lived when one day, while carrying the amplifier that was bigger than me, I tripped on a step, fell to the ground, and the amp crushed my thumb into 3 parts.
Doctors said my thumb would never be suitable for the piano and I better start learning how to play with 4 fingers. Three months after that, I dislocated my right pinky, which you can still notice til this day.
I was determined to play though. I played with one hand. I learned to play with the fingers I had left. I didn’t let any of this stop me. I couldn’t.
I once heard a quote: “A bend in the road is not the end of the road… unless you fail to make the turn.” (Author unknown).
I made the turn. And another. And another.
In fact, 12 was a very special age for me. I don’t remember all the things that happened at 12 but it’s a year I always go back to, mentally. It stands out more than any other adolescent year.
At that age, you couldn’t bribe me off the piano. I could hear a song and 3 minutes later, be playing it exactly as I heard it. Choir directors would bring their boom boxes to church, let me hear the song at rehearsal, and a few minutes later, was teaching it to the choir with full music, compliments of this 12 year old.
And guess what, just 1 year after that unfortunate accident with my fingers, as a 13-year old, I was playing for 5 churches and 2 regional children choirs. A couple years after that, had half a dozen part time students and started a gospel choir at my school. A year later, started hearandplay.com. Fast forward some years and now I reach over 2 million musicians every year.
Moral of story?
Don’t let your circumstances control you… you control them. If I had given up, if I had given in, if I had said “I hate this keyboard because it crushed my finger” or cast blame on my situation, I wouldn’t be where I am today. And chances are, you wouldn’t be reading my words right now.
Little turning points in life affect us years down the road. At every turn, there is a decision to make and when you turn one way versus another, the effects of that decision will be felt many miles (years) down the road.
I’m reminded of the Butterfly Effect, which essentially asserts that a butterfly flapping its wings can cause changes in the atmosphere that effect a huge weather event in another place of the world. Put another way: “Small hinges swing big doors.”
So as you go about life and strive to achieve and accomplish certain things — whether music or otherwise — think about the long term effects of your decisions and response to adversity and setbacks.
If you have little children, them witnessing mommy or daddy accomplishing something can affect their attitude towards achievement many years down the road whereas if they observe the slightest hint of you giving up, acting defeated, being easily frustrated — those things can have an impact on them in the same way.
Remember the butterfly.
That’s all I have for you today.
Until next time -
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{ 210 comments… read them below or add one }
This was very inspirational. So many times i find ‘other things to do’ instead of practice. I realize now that it wont happen by itself, and as long as I persist and practice regularly, with clear purpose, I will accomplish what I have never done before. Thanks for reminding me that I have a dream, and how I can achieve it.
I get the idea of saying: better late than never. Your story is a true inspiration to me.
Sometimes we want to quit what we like most, because we have to work very hard.
And stories like this gives us the courage to keep on going.
Thank you very much for all the support.
I HAVE THE FIRST JOINT OF THREE FINGERS CUT OFF ON MY LEFT HAND BUT AM STILL TRYING TO PLAY GOSPEL MUSIC. I CAN CHORD A FEW SONGS BUT NOT VERY WELL. I AM 85 YEARS YOUNG BUT STILL TRY TO PRACTICE EVERY DAY. I DID NOT START TRYING UNTILL I WAS ABOUT 75 THANKS FOR THE STORY. PAUL
real inspirational words
beautiful! So true. We might even know this principle, but we so easily forget and need refreshers and reminders.
Thanks for the encouragement!
Thanks much for those Words of Wisdom…..I needed to hear something like this. May God continue to bless you in this part of the vineyard.
Jermaine,
Thank you for taking the time to share this True story with me. It brought back alot
of memories for me.God Bless you. Richard Blocher
This is such a wonderful story. I am encouraged to get busy and go over some of the lessons and really get them in my mind and heart. Thanks for the inspiring experiences and the lessons you have taught us faint of heart. God bless you.
Thanks Jermaine for you great testimony! It really INSPIRES me! Now, i have to go on with my gospel playing on the keyboard no matter i am poor in music by ear. What will i do now is to always think that God wants to use me in His music ministry! I really have the talents that God gave me but I AM NOT USING them for HIS GLORY! Sorry Lord for hurting you. I thank God that He let me know JERMAINE GRIGGS through internet! THANK YOU VERY VERY VERY MUCH JERMAINE GRIGGS for your efforts in TEACHING US! God bless you exceedingly and tremendously! iloveyou with the LOVE of the LORD!!!!! I pray for your long and satisfied life! PSALM 91:16 for you!
Thanks Jermaine. That was a truly encouraging piece. You hit the nail right on the head with the bit about inspiring the children to acomplish their goals by seeing us lead by example. Apart from learning to play for the fun of it, I’m hoping my son would take a cue and also learn to apply himself diligently. I know you’ve got my back and I can’t fail.
I strongly believe in ( 2 COR 1:20 ) Practice makes perfect.
yes jermain,that was nice to hear. i thank you so much for you delication, and i know to be great at anything you have to love it, i see you love it. In oct. be GOD’s will, i’ll be 62 years young, and you really know how to teach music. i have learn so much from you. i wish i kewn you 5 years ago, i wound be very good on the keys. now i am learning what i am going.just hold on when things get better for, im going to get a lots of your material, i just don’t have the money right now. i don’t you will be going any where, so i will be on. GOD bless you so much, and make sure we live holy.
Thank for that encouragement,i was at a stage of giving up because progress was coming slow but after reading this i will presest and continue and plus along with your courses i think things will improve,Thanks again Jermaine!
I AM LEARNING AND BEEING MOTIVATED AT THE SAME TIME. THANKS JERMAINE
I am so glad you are where you are Jermaine, because I could not be where I am, and thats to say you have brought me into the marvelous light of playing by ear!
THANK,YOU
FROM MY
HEART!
Walik
Very touching and inspiring! Thank you! :-)
Thanks for the word, It helps to know that some one thanks you can, I am not going to quite now, I wish I knew 60 years ago what I know now. I have taught my self many things in my life, and this is just the beginning, life hasn’t been easy for me, but I thank God I am not a quiter.
Thank you Mr. Griggs!!! Truly Inspirational Sir! We all go thru situations in life that deter us or frustrate us enuff to stop us dead in our tracks Sir. But we all Dont always have someone to lean on or inspire us. You have done just that for me Sir. From the emotional pain and fractures of ur fingers to the turn on the road… you have proven and inspired that perseverance and calm determination are a focus we should all have Sir. I am further impressed that you Mr. Griggs run a business and yet your humble enuff to sit and share w us inspiration and motivation! I dont know any…one in a business who cares as much for its clients as you do Sir. May “Jehovah God” Bless you and may you never lose ur Humbleness Mr. Griggs. Thank you…Sincerely-Angelo Millan from Pa.
I will never forget this story for its inspirational effect.
A bend in the road is not the end of the road…unless you fail to make the turn.
What a thoughtful statement fit for a watchword.
Thanks for sharing this with us.
Thank you sir for your enlightening words! I was really convicted with what you have shared and now being pushed to continue everything i got started despite the circumstances that hinder me from doing so. Just wanna take this time to extend my gratitude for your kindness and all the help you’ve given me. I’m gonna make a way out to to excel with it and be soon brag as the pianist COP.. May God bless you even more sir!
Thank you sir. The article is inspirational. You are blessing to this generation. I pray for the grace that is upon you to be able to play the keyboard, even more than you.
I loved those words Jermaine, this for me, is a great way to start my day, excellent words of inspiration, and I will remember your words as I go through my day, and the unknown author’s quote I will use as a reminder today, and each day forward, thank you again for great guidance…:)
keep up the good work Jermaine, love the stuff you teach
Very inspirational ….JG….Keep up the great job……I know a owe you a lot……but thinking about how to repay.
Sheesh……wow what a small world, I too am missing the first digit of 3rd finger on my left hand.When that happened I was just learning to play the bass guitar, that brought an end to that. Thirty years later I am now on the road to fulfilling my goal of play music. I am sure that you will not let me fail, thank you….
wow Jermaine am really blessed to be your student ,not only your teaching your story takes to the next level it is very inspirational.
GOD BLESS YOU.
Hi Jermaine,
I love this story, it is motivational. Can you permit me to say that you are a MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKER, aside from being the founder of hearandplay website. I love reading your articles and above all, you know how to get to the root of every issue with the tiniest of details.
Keep the stories coming pal. Whenever I see your clips and articles online, it has its own weird way of encouraging me even when all odds are against me.
Thanks once again.
Thank you so much Jermaine. It truly is an inspirational story. One anyone can learn from. So many facets to it, I am still trying to digest each one of them. I write a devotional each day that is on my FB, and sent it to friends over the internet. Would you object if I used some of your thoughts in this? I would give you the credit for it, naturally. Thank you for caring.
I absolutely wouldn’t object. Be my guest Patti. I appreciate the acknowledgement.
All the best,
JG
Thanks Jermaine, for thoes words of inspiration. I am motivated to keep studying & practising. God Bless You.
Many thanks to you Jermaine for sharing your Inspirational events of your life.
May God Bless you always!
Thank you all for your replies. They are encouraging and inspiring to me! I feed off the energy. Keep up the great work in your playing and stay tuned for more.
Yhank you jermaine, there is a lot of thruth in your message that apply to me but not the way you persisted. I do have the tendensy to jump to tan easier approch to acheiving a goal, with naturally not getting anywhere. Your message is inspiring and i will try to put it in good use. I have two wishes on is playing the piano and the other is watercolor painting and with my approach i don’t seem to get anywhere. Then I must try your approach, maybe it will help me get to my goals. Thank you I’m looking forward to reading soon.
Jermaine, this was such an encouraging story. I was just beginning to say to myself that maybe it was unrealistic to think that I could ever take advantage of all of your piano helps. When I saw the chords going higher than the 7ths, I just knew that I didn’t have the hand span to press anymore notes even if I did learn them and rearrange them to a smaller span. To start with, I have a very small hand. Now I have arthritis which is making my hand span even smaller. Also, I will soon be 69 years old and my memory isn’t all that I need it to be. As you can see, I was getting my excuses all together for a big case of “THE QUITS”. Your story was a big encouragement. Years ago, when my husband became a minister, I thought “I wish I had been more interested in my piano lessons as a girl.” Mother pushed me all the way but then she finally let me quit because I was just wasting her money. Now years later, in 1977, I wanted so very much to be able to play the piano for the churches where my husband was ministering. I told my husband, “I want to be able to play the piano in the ‘WORST WAY’ LOL He was always a jokester and he said, “Honey you do” Anyway, I found myself a teacher and learned how to use chords, and boned up on my timing. The Lord helped me to take lessons for a less than a year before we moved yet again. Now I have played the piano for churches for many years. Now it’s years later again and we are retired because of bad health. I still play for a very very small meeting. Yet I still want to learn to play by ear. I am sure God will provide a way for me to somehow learn through the instructions you have put out there on line. Thank you so much for the information and encouragement that you give to all of us struggling piano players. God Bless, dear friend.
Jermaine, I thank God for you each and every day. I have tried to learn to play for so many years off and on. Now I am truly dedicated in my 71 years to play to God’s glory. Thank you for that inspiring story. It reminded me of the times I just stopped and gave up. I know without a doubt that I can play the piano , but it is up to me to dedicate myself and stop agonizing over mistakes and giving up. I am really grateful for all your dedicated hard work in putting together the easy instruction and help. Again may God continue to use you in a mighty way. There is a genius inside you. Be Blessed.
Very good motivational theme. Giving up is easy. We press on.
man you are great,i wont give up .
Thank you for a very inspiring story
You give great music lessons and ALSO great LIFE lessons. Thank you!
I am 61 and things are slower than what they used to be. I guess that slower is the way to make the turns at the bends of the road. I also see (in the above comments) that I am NOT your oldest student.
Thank you again and thanks be to God!
Thanks for this wonderful testimony, for indeed it holds the value of success. I therefore, hoard this value for success in the attainment of my endeavour goal. Peace my brother, and the blessing of the Lord rest upon you in every way!
Thank You for sharing the story and the encouragement.
now, now , now…imagine that.
I learnt to play on my grandma’s old piano too. I was in grade 10. I started playing both the guitar and the piano. When I had enough of one, I would switch to the other.
After much frustration,…I kept on praying. Lord, I just wana play in church, …
I don’t think it went any easier..but I kept trying.
…you know Jermaine, what I think happened, without me knowing. I think that I was forging my signature..
Some old lady at church kept on saying, ‘you have a good touch.’ I had no clue what she was talking about until years later when I heard it one or two more times, and I told myself…’wow I can play!’
…I enjoy your energy, and the lesson that share with me.
Today more than ever, I want to understand what it is that I am doing, so that I may improve…thank again Jermaine.
THAT IS VERY INSPIRING JERMAINE. U REALLY ARE A MENTOR. MAY THE ALMIGHTY CONTINUE TO BLESS AND KEEP U. U R AN IMPACT TO A LOT OF LIVES. REMAIN BLESSED
Thank you for sharing that, I am guiltly of putting things off, but I will not do that anymore. I will stick to my music.
Thank you
What a wonderful inspirtional testamony. Truly you are bless. You have shared your blessings and have not kept them to yoourself. May God continue to bless you and your family, Thank you so much for all your help.
Dear Rev. Jermaine Griggs
Thank for sharing your story. It was so inspired to me. It was so precious. Because
it is so hard for me and my church to settle in foreign land. I am full times worker as maintenance man but when I was in my country I was as lecturer in theological seminary. I thank God for never allowed me to stop in His ministry. Eventhose my english is very bad I am still serving my congregation as full times minister. So busy in my life but never question to Him because He always give me a good friends, a good teachers, a good co-workers alike you. Your story is make a good sermon that would be encouraged for my congregation who are struggling for their settlement in new country if I am allowed to use some of your word. Some time I push them, some time I pull, drag. If I am allowed to share some of your word in my preaching, I believe it would be a delaciois dish for them. Unpaid minister work as maintenance man, you might imagine how my finger are look like and also already in age. But I haven’t got a player yet in my church. I belive God still allow me to service not only His call but also my first interet in music through your teaching and sharing of your story. Thanks
Very inspiring! Sounds like a book n d making!
I’m heavily inspired never to give up since my actions ultimately affect the livelihoods of my descendants.
Im glad to be here, reading this wonderful and inspiring story. Thank you very much, Jermaine.
Wow!!! Thank you for the encouragment and words of wisdom. I really needed to read this, thank you for sharing. May God continue to Bless you (Hear & Play Music, Inc)
Thanks Jermaine,I hope I will be one of those who you are going to make as a good Pianist and musician,I am with you and may God bless you more and more.
Oooh I’m touched man..God bless U Mr. Jermain……..
Thanks for the encouragement. My experience in music started when I was quite young also. I discovered, that singing was not my forte, so I turned to piano. Back then (70s) there were few resourses, at least what I could afford. So I bought all the books I could find and studied music theory for hours and hours, but could never put it together. Thank God for you and all those who share their gifts, so freely. I wish I had this opportunity 40 years ago! You’re a Godsend!!
Jermaine:
You are a breath of fresh air, in this otherwise smog filled world. I commend your parents for your great upbringing. The world would be a much better place if we had more folks like yourself in it!
Keep on keepin’ on brother!
Thanks for sharing that inspiring message. There have been days when I wanna give up cause it is too hard to get it by ear, but I am sticking with it
I’m really moved when i read about your story, it really motivated me and made me to understand what life is all about. It also helped me both physically and spiritually. Thanks for the article.
Sometimes it’s easy to make excuses for not practicing or not taking the time to work at it… Thanks for the Wake up call !
Mr. Griggs
Your story is very inspiring. I see now that I really have to practice more.
Thanks, God Bless You
C.C.
Wow. That’s a really nice story. Especially the fact that not only were you able to play with one hand but you were able to play for 5 churches and other events. Wow, I wish I could do that. You sir, are a really godd role model. people should look up to you.
We must always remember the butterfly and trust in one more thing: God
Sincerely,
Joshua Boca
Hi Mr. Griggs
Yes, your story was truely inspiring, so inspiring that it will allow me to use one of your 7 P’s Push, where you mention that practice must be Pushed, and that is very true. I would like to know how can I get started in playing a gospel songs in church. I spoke with the music church director informing him that I would like to start getting into playing gospel music. There is one song (Invitational) Just as I am that I really like. My question to you is, would that be a good start for me, cause I’m really determine, and with the inspiring story that you’ve shared, makes me even more determine. Please tell me what DVD should I start with. My God continue to Bless You, and Thank You Mr. Griggs.
Respectfully
Charlotte C.
US. Army Retired
Nice inspirational episode Jermaine. I thank you for sharing it with us.
Very true, small hinges swing big doors :)
It is also true about the world today. Only a revolutionary change “within” “each”
one of us can bring peace and happiness to all, not any goverment or leader :)
Take care.
cheers,
jay
Thanks a heap, I have had so much on my plate that I have not had time to log in and carry on with the lessons. but with this story, I know there is no excuse at all. Thanks, thanks, thanks
This is inspirational and motivating. Simply put your disabilities are not sufficient enough to disable your abilities. Am encourage that it is never too late to make progress in the face of opposing circumstances. Thanks for sharing your experience. It blesses me
Jermaine your experience is nothing short of a true inspiration and a blessing. I am blessed and I enjoy the knowledge that you have shared. I have being playing music since I was 7years old and at church at the age of eight. I played songs by ear as well as sheet music. Through the upcoming years I was the Choir director, Music Director and Guide to a lot of musicians here in Grenada (beautiful Caribbean island). Your videos have also inspired me and have helped improved my music. One Day i hope that I can Invite you here to share your talent with a group of musicians with a passion for God and just want to improve their skills while playing music at church. thanks again and may God continue to bless you.
Jermaine. My heavenly Father knows just what i need. i’ve had a cast on my right hand for 3 days. i thought i would have to wait 4 to 6 wks before practicing again. but your testimony has inspired me. i needed to work with my left hand more anyway. now i have the best excuse to do so. i’m making that turn. you’re not a killer, you’re a blessing! you’ve made my dream of being a musician come alive! thanks and may the Lord God bless you and your family and team real good!
your most grateful student,
LT
Thanks Jermaine, It is inspirational events of your life. It is superb model. I ‘ll follow you as also Thai proverb ‘you ‘ll succeed when you attempt’. So work hard don’t give up ! i’ll,
Thanks again,
Thanks for the sharing of your beautifu and encouraging story. I too, have the love for music that you’ve always had. In addition, there are many other interests that I am pursuing. The piano continues to take first place, but the others cannot be put aside and forgotten. My time is a shared time toward learning all that I can about many things. My childhood was a very curious period and I’m still looking for answers to questions on so many different topics. I love learning about the piano more than my other hobbies; however, I share my time with all. Thanks for all of the interest that you show to your students. I have piles of Hear and Play homework that I practice every day along with my many other intersts.Your student concern is appreciated. Elaine
inspiring story…that means you’re a music genius-a child prodigy. your broken fingers story now gives me understanding why your fingering is different. in your site a lady member asked why your fingering was a bit odd…i explained maybe because you have big hands=long fingers. thank you for hearandplay
Thanks for the story. It helped me realize that I have to take control of my music
ministry. Many times I let things get in the way. They are important but so is playing and I have to make time for it. If I’m not suppose to play it would be easier. In my life things that are for me to do come with trials and struggle. Thanks for all you do and especially your time. Thats the one thing we never get back.
You know – I know I’m too slack with my practice & get easily frustrated. (tho’ your videos & + are improving this), but I had never thought of the impact this might have on the kids. I would NEVER want to be a bad testimony to them! You have shown me that playing truly is simple if I want to really play. Thankyou for reminding me.
Hi Jermaine,
In the videos from the way you play and the things that you say, I would never know that you had such a problem with your hand. Your words and attitude are very inspirational. I will forever go around the next bend in the road now that I know the bend is not the end. Another writer said that success awaits around the next bend in the road. You surely proved that.
i just want to say big thanks to jermaine you, you’re are really a blessing to my life, this lesson have really help me a lot.
I marked my 68th birthday by purchasing an inexpensive keyboard and began the most interesting and rewarding journey of my life; didn’t have a clue about making music, however I could spend hours listening to the standards, and usually identify the music within a couple of bars and my thoughts danced around the idea of why not learn to make music; if not now then when? A well intentioned friend said to me, “what if you can’t learn to play the thing” without hesitation, I replied, what do you mean by if? Short of particle physics most things are within my realm. Though I don’t play gospel, I found your introductory gospel course was key to understanding the basic concepts of music. Second only to the small inspirational messages you feed to us on occasion. This has been the ride of a lifetime.
Chris
Wow! this is an eye opener, that’s great, we must live to take up chalenges and make it happen. Thanx Jermaine
Hi Jermaine,
Thanks for making an impact on society.
It’s a tough job but as they say — someone has to do it.
And the best person for the job is the one who loves doing it with love and passion.
You have those qualities because that’s mainly what it takes to continue to persevere no matter what the obstacles. Hope this comment goes through, it’s my first time writing a comment — ever. I’m not sure what to write where the instructions say (website). I wrote hearandplay.com. Please let me know if that’s correct.
Thanks-
Tony
I come from a family of Gospel musician. I remember at 4 yr old standing at a old piano as my grandfather sing a song along with my uncle’s, and aunties. It was like church at home. My first son at the age he could walk had drum sticks in his hand, taking pots and pan playing on them. When we went to Church my anutie wanted him to march in the choir. But I bought hi a toy r us drum, and he would watch my brother play for the choir, what ever my brother did he did, until oneday my brother started takeing the drum apart, so he took the toy r us apart. I never got it back together. When ye turn four I bought him a tamma drum set with two bass drum and padel.
My son is one of the best drummer in Chicago, now he is is fighting a tumor, that left a scar from his neck down to his stomach. I have never seen a person that have love for music as my son, and yet he still play for church and a band.
Hi Jermaine,
What’s a wonderful story! It is a great inspiration to me. Thanks for posting this.
Susan
Thanks so very much for the encouragement. I become so frustrated sometimes when I’m practicing because, I don’t hear what I think I should be hearing when I’m playing. I’m always reminded to keep trying and never give up. You have just added further confirmation.
Hi Jermaine,
Thanks for the inspirational message. I have been trying for a few years to play piano. I have done lots of projects and other things in my life of 61 years, but none has proved to be as difficult as trying to play the liane. Has a problem with ear training and rhythm, but I am going to keep trying for I have reached the bend. Keep these motivational messages coming.
Thanks for all you have done.
This is very beautiful and is both challenging & inspiring. Thank for giving me something for me and to share with others. Its life principle.
Thank you Jermain. My story is the opposite from yours. I was diagnosed with dementia at thirty-five, caused by chemical exposure, leaving holes in my brain. After forgetting the names of my children my doctor suggested that I take on a new hobby to challenge my memory. He said they probably won’t wear nametags. I’ve always wanted to play keyboard, but was too busy. Your lessons have challenged me and coddled me at the same time. The dementia causes easy frustration and I have given up a hundred times. But went back a hundred and one times, thanks to your encouragement and lessons at my own speed. The HP Songlearner has been a God-send.
Kenny
That’s true and cool. Jermaine; my role model!
Hi, Jermain,
thanks for the inspirational and thank God you were so dedicated and now your passing on your knowledge to us. I played the clarinet when i was younger my teacher said i had a natural talent for music. I didn’t focus on practice and through life’s ups and downs i left music alone, now aged 34 I’m taking the piano up, to see where I can go with music and to play in my church is what I’m hoping for. Only God knows what i could have been doing if i had study hard at music and stuck with it. Well its never too late.
God bless you and thanks for the encouragement
Kelly from the UK
Thanks to this inspiring story of yours. Its just sad that I only read this now. I ordered your book The Secrets to Playing Piano by Ear last 2009. I set it aside because of other activities and problems that got in the way. I went back to reading and memorizing notes again which takes too much time. Now I am trying my best to really focus on learning your techniques. before I get too old and couldn’t read or hear anymore. I’m 61 now.
Its good thinking that a bend in the road is not the end of the road. We may have turned on a bend to see what is there or just get lost and get stuck but must turn back to the main road and journey till the end. May you continue to inspire more people who want to learn playing piano.
Lourdes
Thank you so much for your commitment to help others.
I am encouraged, and truly appreciate your sincere efforts.
It is really a motivational one. We should not magnify and pamper our disabilities, we should rather explore to make the best out of them.
God bless you man for this great article. You have inspired a lot of people as i can see. I want to thank all the others for their comments because many of them are also really inspiring. I have had to say silent prayers for some of them because of what they are or have been going through. I want to be able to inspire others to serve God using their talents like you do. THANKS A LOT.
Beautiful …. I’m getting ready to practice right now !! God Bless you Jermaine and your family.
Hi Jermaine,
Your story is encouraging and inspirational. It reminds us that in life there will be obstacles, but we should never give up. We can only achieve if we have the intense efforts, will, and determination to be successful.
We must remember that God must always be first in our lives, we must trust God, and if we continue to glorify God with all what we are doing, we will be the best we can be in whatever field we are in. Thanks for your motivation. God will continue to bless you if you continue to be faithful to him.
May God continue to richly bless you,
Julien
Thank you very much, not only for this inspirational story but also all of your caring and effort to encourage us to keep trying our best to learn and practice. You are a super great man!
It has been over a year since I have been surfing on the internet for online piano lessons. I have found a lot of them; but I never sticked to one like I do to yours. You never skip a day without sending something. Your regularity & your willingness to help, to push & to encorage, motivate me to do more to achieve my goal. Your experience is also very inspirational. I can say that you are a man of God. keep up the good work by continuing to let God use you his own ways!
Thanks a lot!
&
God bless!
Ruth
I AM SPEECHLESS…I JUST CRIED…YOU ARE SUCH A WONDERFUL MAN! THANKS FOR YOUR GREAT TESTIMONY! BE BLESSED IN THE MIGHTY NAME OF JESUS!
Thank you so much for the inspirational true story.I was also inspired reading all the comments from other people who also are older people trying to learn to play piano by ear.I am 62 and a beginner and you have truly been an inspiration to me with all the wonderful lessons you send and all the things you put on hearandplay.I am having trouble with keeping rythym but Iam determined to keep on keeping on. I bought a used keyboard at a yardsale a few months ago and Ihope to get a better one on down the road because I really love trying to play.It is so calming to sat down at a keyboard and practice,even though I feel that I am a slow learner,but I do love to play. Thank you so very much for all the giving of your time and God given talent,and God bless you richly Jermaine.
God always sends a message by someone when you need it. I really needed what you shared with me today. You have no idea how much you have encouraged me this day. You remind me a lot of my brother, who has been playing the guitar by ear since he was five years old and now he is over 60. He have played for a lot of gospel groups, mostly quartetts and will do nothing but look for a place to play all of the time. Thank you for encouraging me because my brother was so encouraged by all of my family members while I was walking over 3 miles to take a piano lesson that cost 25 cents. Not much encouragement for girls in those days. Any how you see I still have the dream and I mean to make it happen. God Bless you.
Thanks, for that testimony I experience serval of the same thing that happen to you, but did see the value of that decision then, but God still would let come to this point of understanding that NOTHING in life doesn’t grow without hardship as you quoted about the butterfly. Thanks!
i understand the moral of the story. there are going to pitfalls but you as a student must be focused on what you are trying to do.by watching you teach me i have become a lot better in getting to point where i can here a song and then play it .i am turning the church out,now people look to me and what to know what was crazy chord. i will help anyone who asks me. i wanted to play in church because i want to worship in songs.i can not why some musicians want to play for pay ,i want praise him in song. you are truly a god sent and inspiring blessed person. thank you helping me .god bless you and your family.
Hi Jermaine, I was truely inspired by reading your story, I’m sorry that had to happen to you, but it is good to know that we can keep on striving to accomplish any goal we desire and not blame our circumstances for getting the job done. Thank you for sending this story to me it’s definetly a push to the next level. God Bless you, and I hope that it inspires many others as well. Keep up the good work.
Jermaine, i want to thank you also ,for the wonderful ,way you teach and inspire your students through the grace of God, I am 64 years old and started your course as an absolute beginner, at first i thought it was the hardest task i ever taken on ,but through your teaching methods it is all coming together, and making sense. I believe, that if i put the time in i will become the keyboard player i am striving to be.my goal was to be able to play by spring , and i have not given up on that,and wont, even if it doesnt happen. i will thank God and you Jermaine for given me the opportunity and priviledge to learn one of GODS GIFTS(MUSIC). May GOD, bless and keep you. I pray for you in Jesus name . ( AMEN) Thank You !!!!!!!! Robert Harper. april1447@comcast.net
Thanks Jermaine :) It seems we sing from the very same hymn sheet! My piano playing happens when I can fit it in at the mo as I am currently building my own business and learn from the great master himself Tony Robbins (who uses very similar approaches in life). My current efforts are been thrown into this, however, he does teach me how to create time for things that are important so I will be making some room for more playing soon! :/ I have a board meeting on Friday and we always bring a ‘saying of the week’ with us…this one will be mine for this week so thank you!! :) keep having fun x
Very inspiring story. But I have been practicing and learning the numbers and chords in the scales of all keys. Along with learning new song for choir practice for my church choir. I had choir rehearsal tonight of the teleseminar ad saddened I wasn’t able to attend. Maybe next, but thanks for the encouragement:-))
Thank you. Thank you. Thank you!!!
Thank you for sharing such an inspirational experience. There are several obstacles that I must overcome. I am using my grand-daughter’s piano that I gave her several years ago. It is in desperate need of being tuned. Also my printer is out of ink so must rely on my PC to ‘try’ to practice from your most helpful charts. It has been years since I have tried to play and found that I had forgotten how to read music (it’s coming back to me) Your technique is new to me but is helping me to play in a more useful way. Our grt-grn-children love to ‘play’ their Mom’s piano so I am determined to accomplish this task! Thanks again, Jermaine.
You’ve touched a very important part of my life and i am grateful for this!
i am inspired anew and i want to be firm in my decision! Thanks again!
God bless you!
marilou
i’m touched and inspired. thank you for the story , very encouraging indeed.
JERMAINE,
I THANK YOU FOR THE OPPORTUNITY TO LEARN HOW TO PLAY A PIANO BY EAR. I HAVE NOT STARTED MY LESSONS YET. I JUST RETIRED AND THIS WAS ONE OF THE THINGS ON MY ‘BUCKET LIST’: TO LEARN HOW TO PLAY A PIANO. I HOPE TO GET A KEYBOARD NEXT YEAR AND THEN I WILL BE ABLE TO PUT ALL OF THIS INTO PRACTICE. I’M JUST COLLECTING ALL THE LESSONS NOW. YOU HAVE MADE ONE OF MY HOPES A REALITY.
KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK AND MAY GOOD CONTINUALLY BLESS YOU THOSE WORKING WITH YOU.
wow! that’s good idea in fact it inspirational thank/s a lot for that & for your news letters, GOD BLESS YOU “Jermaine Griggs”
Thanks for inspirational words. These words have added more grease to my elbows. Thank you.
It’s a very powerful motivation from the true experience,I am just seing something beyond business in you,you have this passion that you wish you can get in our shoues.Man!Thankyou so much you don’t just coach for the keyboad but for our life and decision we make.I have hope to become you in myself.Thanks.
I have a lot of responsibilities presently, I sometimes feel overwhelmed, my brother is the musician and sometimes his hand swells; I feel badly that I can not play on his level; however I know that I am disobedient because the Lord has influenced me to practice more and I haven’t
Jermaine
Your story was inspirational and when I see the effort you put in your free music lessons it makes me want to learn that much more from you
God Bless and have a very MERRY CHRISTMAS
You are truly astonishing. I wish I could locate you before. Your story has given enough inspiration to my 62 years young heart to take on challenges, be it in the art of playing piano or in day-to-day turmoils. I am sure that I am in good hands, not that I ever doubted it. You are truly God sent to me. May God give you the strength to keep on doing what you have embarked upon for the next few centuries to come. A very big THANK YOU SIR.
I have always looked for someone to
reassure me that the basic chords I learnt
by searching on the keyboard were the
Right ones. I used to sit behind the keyboard
and work out the triads in a very primitive
way. Little did I know that after about
10 years of not knowing what I was doing
I would be introduced to hear and play.com, who
will show me the right way.
Now everything is making sense. There
is still a lot of hard work I have to put
Into it but now everything is beginning
to fall into place and making sense.
I will like to say a big thank you to
Jermaine. YOU ARE THE MAN!!
God bless and protect you. Hopefully
We will meet one of these fine days.
Jojo
Thank you for that “Great Breakthrough”,because you went threw the storms.I guess everyone have a storto tell, God brought me this far i cant turn back now.I am a walking testimony because i been hitvby a car, in a coma,went threw rehabilition. And God brought me out in when i got out of the hospital at yhe age of 15 years old i went to church in got my breakthrough. Now iam 27 years old i should be on a different level then what i on now. But you Jeremaine is helping me to get to that level Thank you so much.
Thank you for sharing this story. It’s amazing and very inspiring. Blessings!
THANKS!!!!!!!!!!!! Needed to hear something wonderful today…
Jermaine, thank you for sharing your story. One day while at work, I injured the tendon in my right hand, which affected movement to my middle finger (at the time of the injury I did know it was a cut tendon), so I was hestitant on going to the doctor because I thought that it was something that would heal on its own.That was not the case and I knew this would affect my musical ability to play an instrument. So the following day, I got up the nerve to go to the emergency room. Come to find out, if I had waited any longer I might not have been able to move that finger ever again. Growing up as a kid and becoming a musician was always a dream of mine. I thank my Savior and Lord Jesus Christ for giving me courage to take that step and get that injury repaired. Again, I thank you for the inspiration and motivation to keep pushing ahead. At times I feel like throwing in the towel, however, I know that all the hard work, dedication will pay off.
I thank you very kindly for sharing your testimony. I have a very strong desire to play for the Lord in the services that attend. This desire came upon me everysince I was a little girl and now I’m 56. I just had a birthday. Matter of fact, your “Gospel Keys 300″ course arrived on my birthday. I am so excited because it is coming together for me. And yes I had a set back, and I had to learn all over again. In 2007, I had a stroke. Everything I’ve learned through the years, I had lost. I remember my husband asked me to play something on the piano, but my fingers kept slipping off the keys. Glory be to God, my comprehension has increased throught my healing process. I had to undergo speech and physical therapy as well. I thank God for giving me the opportunity to mention: This is where you come in TEACHER, My husband is a pastor, and I want to accompany him with music. I want to be able to play by ear. Sheet music I can read, I will love to have the ability to posses the gift of playing without sheet music. Through your course, TEACHER, my ears are beginning to hear. I am at it every night when the house is quiet. I have a set schedule for my class. I enter my music room and shut the door. Turn on my computer and put my DVD in. I say to myself with my grandmom gone mad voice “IT IS ON. It is just you and me now.” My family is very supportive in what I am desire to do. Keep teaching and sending out valuable lessons to your students and to anyone who desire to learn. YES YOU DO HAVE VALUABLE INFORMATION THAT NO UNIVERSITY CAN TEACH. “THAT’S RIGHT, I SAID IT. God Bless you and the staff HEAR AND PLAY.COM
God Bless you Jermaine!
God truly has and is using you to “teach” and encourage others with your gift of music. Your “Testimony” was not only encouraging for those who desire to learn to play music by ear and sometimes feel defeated; but it is one of those “and they overcame by the Blood of the Lamb and the words of their testimony……. testimonies
Pat
Hi Germaine,
it woul be nice if you create a kind of exame after each lessons,so that the students know were they stand.
regards,
Aly
Hi Jermaine,
I just want to thank you for being such a great instructor. For the longest I had
“stage fright”. Fearful that I had jumped in over my head. I was fearful and doubtful
that I could not do this. At the same time I was fearful that I would let you down if
I didn’t go on so I trudged on. It took a while but I can now see progress, slowly but
surely. The confidence was weak but is now kicking in to the point where I can now
play simple songs.
Bernice
Mr. Griggs, thank you so much for sharing your story. It is an extraordinary and inspirational source.
Thanks A lot….really great advice for the supernovice. :)
Hi Mr Griggs, you are the gift from God to share the talents. You are the blessed human being on earth. Well done.
Truly inspiring… Thanks doc.
This is just what I need …..MOTIVATION. Thank you jermaine do u have a facebook page where I cud get more of this and teachings perhaps?danny
always amazed of you accomplishments at such a young age and even though I’m a lot older, your achievement inspires me to keep striving for more. thank you brother God is truly blessing
that was really inspiring…God bless
Amen to that. I will never forget these inspiring words
am proud to be part of this family. Sir, you”re indeed a gift from God to people like me.
Bjcoolest!
Thank you. This is encouraging.
Just when I needed it! Thanks Jermaine, you are a blessing!
Thanks, Germaine, for sharing your inspirational story about how you never gave up in the face of adversity. I’m soooo glad you never gave up! And I’ll never give up! I feel as if I’ve FINALLY been handed the “keys to the kingdom” of music and I will spend my retirement years singing and playing praise to God. It’s been said there’s nothing worse than “dying wih your music inside of you” and thanks to you, that won’t be happening! :) Thank you!
Thank you so much, Jermaine that story was very inspirational. I keep on trying even if I get only bits and pieces at a time. I will continue until I have mastered it as you have done. With the help of God, I will go on to succeed. Thank you again for your support.
WOW, JERMAINE SO IMPRESSED WITH DOES WORDS. THANKS TURN AROUND IN APPROACH TO SITUATION IN LIFE.
Thank you so much for sharing! It is so inspiring! Hopefully I will use it to inspire me to work harder at learning to play better!
wow wow very encouraging, its been a very hard long journey so far but thank you for the lesson today its not only encouraging but uplifting!! be blessed
Oh that was an encouraging story, infact am jingered up with that food for thought, thank you very much for than wonderful story
Many thanks for the story…
it is very encouraging.
wow! this is a continuation of what i just read from Matthew 19:26, Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” The moment we felt we are on the edge, it is time to surrender to God and expect Him to make everything possible for us. When others asks how did this happen…we can point them to the God of possibility. Thank God! Thanks Jermaine for inspiring us!
I am highly motivated. I really thank the Almighty God for people like. You simply make the world what it should be. Thank you for not giving up. You have encouraged so many people. May God bless you and that concerns you. Bravo!
Jermaine,
Thank you for the inspiration to continue to practice and watch all your cd’s .
I am learning a lot .
Wow ! Jermaine you are the inspiration i have been looking for, you remind me the day my first keyboard was stolen, i wept before my family. The passion i have in music is priceless.
I always believe i can dream the same dream twice, thus never give up. I am sure you change a lot of hopeless souls, caught in the web of desperation and despair.
GOD bless you JERMAINE.
Inspiring words of wisdom Jermaine. The moral in the story is don’t give up and what one does will eventually touch on others. Like you have touched over two million of us through your easy to follow instruction and material.Thanks Jermaine for the free lessons you are definitely on top of your game.
Jermaine, thank you for sharing this inspirational article about yourself and thank you for sharing everything you have shared with me thus far. I just received your cd’s and I am listening to them and enjoying them. I appreciate your words and what you’ve done to help me and I want to pay it forward to others in the way you have done, which is what I think life is all about. Each one teach one.
Hello Jermaine Griggs: I did enjoy reading your article; about the day I crushed my thumb.I starting singing the song ” I feel like going on ” thank you for taking the time too share the article with us. Yes, I have reviewed all your free music lessons, I also received two dc’s today, again thank you . I had a left kidney cancer; it has been remove, God heal my body. I said that I would master the keyboard and play for his kingdom. With you being my teacher via the internet, I will do it; God bless you and all the work you are doing for God’s children
WOW!!! That’s an awesome life story. If crushing and breaking fingers won”t stop you from playing, then nothing should. I’ll try to keep up.
how inspiring! determination is what i need most. though i know ‘where there’s a will there’s a way’ but i am always afraid of investing time in things that i will have nothing out of and therefore blaming my abysmal intelligence and memory. You reminded me not to ever give up; we control the circumstances and not otherwise.
i like you quality and character in every thing measuring from you childhood age following your experiences, man that a powerful inspiration. thaks am so encouraged
it wasn’t easy for me neither, i had a lot if criticisms when i just started playing but it was that intrinsic motivation that i had which keep on propelling me. I i had listen to others I wouldn’t have reach any where in music and with your help now i know i am going to reach to greater places. and for this i just want to let u know that i appreciate what you are doing very much.
This is sooo encouraging Jermaine. You give more than any private teacher would ever give because you give your heart, your soul. Thanks for being “REAL”
That’s amazing how you kept practicing even in such uncomplimentary circumstances. It shows how much you love your music. :) I’m taking the lesson of this story to heart. Thanks so much for sharing!
Thanks for sharing with us. I was inspired and will contiously remember this lesson. Thank you sir
I love your rich post. awesome information. I hope you write more. I will carry on watching
Thanks for caring and sharing. What an inspiring story. Thanks for sharing, God continue to bless you.
Hi Griggs thank you very, very much.may God promote you higher than that level. now i can see that my dreams can come true too.thankyou.
Your words have uplifted me, not only where it comes to my learning to play, but also in other areas of my life. Thank you for being so inspirational and for helping to show me the way to happiness. You are a blessing!!
Hi Jarmaine,
Thanks for inspirational words. i have realised that through determination and giving no room for discoragement you can achive your dreams in all areas of life.
thaat was a real message for me! you really knocked sense into my head!
all i’ve got is interest but no determination. i’m supposed to be lucky enough
to have a father who plays the piano so well (he started at 5years old) but he’s
unlucky to have a daughter who, while growing up with lesson materials similar
to yours never ever learned or let’s say never ever tried to learn enough from him.
my siblings have performed in many music venues because they were determined
to begin with. with your message regarding determination and hard work (the essence
of this learning journey), i am really ashamed of myself such that from hereon i made a promise to myself that inspite of my work/load (which of course is important), i will really start with and drive myself to work hard on these piano lessons.
i am sure my father will be happy with this motivation you have made. it’s does not only inspire your ‘enrolees’ but will definitely drive them into producing results from what you have made for them/us. thank you so very much.
hi I thought you possibly condone my information
You’re a great motivator – Thanx . . .
It’s not out of place, the story, i see in it courage to move on in spite of ‘excuses’ that may give reason not to.
I’m looking forward to when i’ll also share with some one as an encouragement.
As you rightly thought, i’ve downloaded all the tutorials, though i’ve not started practicing as i should, but i sure will.
Thanks for being such an inspiration and a tutor.
Mr Griggs,
You are so right about me, gathering as much information as possible to learn
to play gospel and other music. This coming August 27th I will be 77 yrs old. Always
as a little girl, I wanted to learn to play. Searching the internet, I cam across you and what you were giving back of what God has blessed you with. I just want to play to the
Glory and Honor of God until my heart is filled with joy.
You are an inspiration to me and may God continue to bless you in whatever you undertake.
Yours in Christ,
Ethel McCrary
Thanks so much for this. so encouraging.
Hey dear Mr. Jermaine, This is a excellent article. I think that there is nothing impossible if we just believe and if we are persistent. I’m blind and that doesn’t make me give up on anything. For those of you who think that you can not, why not trying and being more persistent? God bless! Chris
Wow, hard to believe, the same broken thump boy come out with such an amazing talent with the same fingers! This very encouraging story. I am just the beginner on piano, and with limited music knowledge, I was thinking this may not be something I will be able to do, but your story encouraged me and I will try not my situations drive me out! Thank you Jermaine, you are doing a wornderful job to help people like me. Thank you again, and God bless you..Cicily,
I jst have this to say; wen God has something good to give to you, he leads you on the right path
Wonderful story – not just your tenacity but your passion for music and your extraordinary talent at such an early age. Very cool.
That story was right on time. I felt like that was something I needed to hear. Thank you for everything!!
This was very inspirational. For years, I have wanted to learn how to play the piano but I was frustrated because no one would show me. It seemed very complicated. I thank God for people like you and Jamal Hartwell. I am learning more but my dream is to be the best musician/producer I can be. I have been distraught for years because I felt like my time was over and never meant to come. This was inspirational because now I have the strength to fight once again. I will make it. I will learn, play music and achieve my dreams.
Thank you
Thanks so much for sharing such an inspiring event in your life. It really hits home
in so many ways at this time in my life as I face obstacles and “bends in the road”.
I shall remember your experience and apply that to my own thinking in the future!
Lisa
I am really inspired by your story, all i can say is even after a bad harvest there must be sowing
Hi Jermaine
You story has touched my heart. After reading some of the comments, I realize that I am also not your oldest student but I know that “little is much when God is in it” and through your motivational story, I can handle the bend in the road. May you continue to be a blessing to others.
Thank you so much, you’ll be hearing of my progress…God bless.
Gloria
Jermaine, Words can’t completely describe how MUCH Your Message/Article TOUCH MY HEART and MY SOUL! and Words can’t completely describe how MUCH I NEED to LISTEN to this Message!….I LITERALLY CRIED in TEARS as I was reading Your Inspirational and Encouraging Message!..I feel like it’s speaking HUGE VOLUMES to Me and your articles are VERY INSPIRATION, ENCOURAGING and MOTIVATING!, I respect and admire the fact that You didn’t let any setbacks, obstacles, etc. deter, stop nor hinder You from pursuing Your Music Career Goals/Music Journey!…I feel like this is helping me and inspiring Me too, I really do NEED this ENCOURAGEMENT!…Again and again, I want to say THANK YOU Jermaine for sharing your testimony with Me, I APPRECIATE it from the bottom and the top of MY HEART!…May God continue to BLESS and SUSTAIN You!
Thanks for sharing! I will remember the story. I love music so much that nothing stops me from wanting to learn the piano, but the story came in handy, because I am a working mom and a law Student at the same time, and I was thinking of dropping law just for a year, because I think am be tired. So I am glad that I read the story especially the part. “If you have little children, them witnessing mommy or daddy accomplishing something can affect their attitude towards achievement many years down the road whereas if they observe the slightest hint of you giving up, acting defeated, being easily frustrated — those things can have an impact on them in the same way.”
thanks so much again!
Because, I was thinking that I am too tired to do all those things at the same time.
wow!!! those words touched my heart. Thank you Jermaine .
Mr. Jermaine. You’ve been thanked so much but I still need to thank you once again. See I have been making music all of my life on a very low level and have been surrounded by very good musicians. I thought I needed a lot more of talent to be able to get to a higher level. Now you openend up box full of goodies and I am enjoying this so much I have to slow myself down to let some of the stuff you teach penetrate into my system. You are a good teacher but most important is your enthousiasm which is felt in every lesson. Thank you and God bless you, your co-workers and family.
Jermaine:
Thank you for the story, though it is more than just a story. It’s the truth about life, and I deal with it each day.
Five years ago, I had a blow to my skull which left me in a daze for months and, the pain was so horrific that I thought I was going to die. I suffered for just under six months before there was any hint of relief. One month after the incident, I heard a song in my head – one I had not heard anywhere before and I liked it instantly. It was, to me, a message from Jesus reminding me of the price He had paid for me. It was uncanny.
I recorded it and the radio broadcaster told me – on the air – that he did not “feel” it. He said, “Try again.”
I certainly did not appreciate his making a public announcement when he came to my home to collect the CD. My pride did not “feel” good.
Jermaine, I am going to do it again, though it is very costly and I have to find the money, but I will. I refuse to go down like that. He mentioned that he liked my first release but something about the second was not up to standard. He neglected to address the third altogether. The first was done with a different technician who still has work pending for me and does not appear to care.
No, Jermaine! I am not a quitter. When you’ve been knocked off your horse, you get bruised and it hurts but eventually you get back up again.
To me, winning is everything. However far I may reach, I will keep going till God stops me.
Thanks again!
Ann
Thank you Jermaine. That story was very inspirational. The reason for saying so is that many times I get a bit lazy and refused to practice my chords or even look at the number system. Thanks for the “wake up call”. The thing is that there are times when you think you are stock. For eg. I am having some difficulties using my two hand playing, therefore, at times, that throws me off and cause me to just think about giving up. I need to find a way to get the coordination in both my hands working together. I am continuing to work hard, for at the end of it all, I want to be a jazz piano/keyboard player. Thank you very much for the inspiration.
You don’t just teach people how to play the piano or keyboard, it is so obvious that this is your life assignment from God! For you bring life into what you teach! You bring Him(Jesus). You reach deep into the souls and spirit of men and you call them forth to express who they really! Your situation couldn’t hold you down because though your body was crushed but your Spirit and Soul were very much sound and healthY for that is the real you. So your body just had to go with the flow! Thank you so much for sharing God’s amazing strength through you! I am encouraged!
A very inspirational story. Thanks for sharing, which is what you just do with people. You are another blessing for me.
Thanks for the share. Needed that inspirational tid-bit. Keep up the good work.
Hello Bro. Jermaine, Thanks for your video music ministry. Thank you for your story of your early childhood story about your music beginnings, history and challenges. I am encouraged from your experience to stay focused, steadfast and prayerful. May God continue to bless you and you ministry as you strive others into the light of this universal language of music. R. Stewart. Peace and blessings to you.
Very inspiring!!! I want to learn but my time is limited at home and my parents don’t want me to learn because it is supposedly a waste of my time. If i watch those last free videos and want to see more, I can’t because they won’t pay for it. Keep teaching those who can learn!!! You must be doing a great job!
This so inspiring. It’s all true.
Wow, thank you for sharing that story. It has poignant meaning in my own life right now. It’s crazy, it’s as if you somehow knew how relevant that would be to me personally… Amazing, thank you.
Hello Mr. Griggs, let me say a great ‘Thank You’ for the sharing of your talent and your Spirit of music. I am 69, soon to be 70; but I am inspired to learn to play the piano, particularly Gospel music. Some of the terms at this point elude my understanding, but I am sticking with the program. Thanks for your inspiring article, and I know that your blessings will continue to flow from the Music Maker Extraordinaire. Thanks again.
God is Good is all need be said,
Thanks Jermaine; no matter what my local circumstances or situation I will not give up. And I will find a way.
JERMAINE YOUR STORY IS AN INSPIRATION TO ME TO DON’T QUITE. I AM 58 YEARS YOUNG TOOK MUSIC LESSON AT AN EARLY AGE BUT WAS MADE TO QUITE AT THE TIME I REALLY WANTED TO PLAY,BUT GOD HAD A PLAN FOR MY LIFE I STARTED TAKING LESSONS BUT COULD NEVER CONTINUE.
I WAS CALL IN THE MINISTRY 15 YEARS AGO BUT NOW GOD HAS CALL ME TO PASTOR OF A CHURCH JUST STARTING. I PRAYED SOMEONE COULD PLAY FOR MY CHURCH . I FOUND YOUR WEBSITE FEB.6 20013 LEARNED THE NUMBER SYSTEM.CHORDS AND I AM PLAYING GOSPEL SONGS. THANK YOU JG
this is a great experience, we are faced with these hurdles daily, thanks for the motivation. God bless you.
Ali
Thank you for sharing. Lost count of how many times I have felt like quitting music ministry…
Jermaine you are great……….
Thanks for sharing your experience. I too have had the interest but never gave it a serious thought. Now I go to a small church that has a keyboard no one can play. I have other responsibilities so I cant take the challenge. Now I chose to learn and transfer the knowledge to the interested beginners. My challenge is bigger than my abilities but I am the best of the not little and that keeps me inspired to learn and share. I too will also play ocassionaly in church and at home for self edification.
Thanks for that story Jermaine those turns in the road do make all the difference, thank GOD he straightens those curves sometimes when he can see we aren’t going to make it !!!
Thanks for the encouragement.
Very inspiring story. Good! I am reviewing your lessons. Sorry, I have bieen too slow for music understanding, but I like it. Regards.
Thanks a lot, you have motivated me to move forward. I have never met a dedicated person like you in my entire life. I pray God continue to use you
God bless everything you do man and yes i am you favorite submity
I am 89 years old, probably tone deaf and rhythm decayed -started piano this year for improving my fingers movement-play by the numbers I see in some music books but your story still encourages me to just make the turn and continue. A few friends tell me that at my age it is useless but I still enjoy hearing the sounds responding to my fingers. Thank you
I almost wanted to cry as I read your story and its like I was imagining you falling down and reliving those moments as if it happened to me. Thanks for sharing your story and its indeed inspiring. This confirms to me that perseverance always has a work to do and when you allow it, you become mature, perfect and entire not lacking anything (James 1:4) Thanks once again for sharing and God bless you for teaching us.
Beautiful and inspiring story! It makes me remember the true power of God because I believe that nothing is impossible with Him, no matter what life throws at you, God is in control and once you put your faith in Him, you can move mountains!! Thanks so much for sharing your story with me and may God continue to shower blessings on you and your family. So keep up the goog work:D
Thanks Jermaine, I am truly inspired by your story and motivated by your encouragement!
Thanks Jermain!
I am 76 years old. I started piano 4 months ago!
Your story still encourages me to just make the turn and continue!
You are a good teacher but most important is your enthousiasm which is felt in every lesson.
Thank you for what you are doing.
THANKS JERMAIN,
I am really inspired by your story, I am really encouraged.. If by any chance I wanted to throw in the towel, your story has caused me to roll out the towel and continue.
Jermain , you are a great teacher, God Bless You………..
Thanks for sharing,also very inspiring.
Great motivation. You actually sounded like John C. Maxwell, with his topic “Failing Forward”. Thank you Jermaine I am very much motivated by your story, keep up the good work.
This was a very encourging story, Sometimes when we think the door is closing we find that our door to open is the next one down and this is the one God wants us to open. Sometimes our attempt to open the wrong door brings about failure but I am a witness, just as the song says I am glad I serve a God of another chance! The greater sin is not being down but being down and not trying to get up.
Jermaine, Thanks for sharing your story, very inspiring. I am in a similar situation with my little finger on my left hand; but I am not giving up. Many thanks, God bless.