In this day and age when we are saturated with viewing options to choose from I am astonished at the amount of times when there appears to be nothing worth watching. We are spoilt for choice, but that does not mean every offering holds value.

For the past few Sunday nights my husband and I have spent a delightful 60 minutes watching a show called ‘The Piano’ on the ABC. A Kawai upright piano is set up in a very public space and various pre-arranged people come to meet with Amanda Keller and then perform a piece on the piano.

Amanda has a chat with each performer before they play and we are given an insight into their lives and motivation for playing. The contrasts could not be more stark – One performer was as young as 5 and one was in their 90’s, one was deaf and blind, one could only play with one hand due to a stroke, one was a gravedigger, one was in drag. They told of experiences with illness, disability, loss, anxiety, disadvantage, grief, bullying and how the piano helped them overcome.

What each of these musicians do not realise is that hidden nearby are two amazing famous pianists in Andrea Lam and (my favourite) Harry Connick Jr watching on. Their job is to choose one performer in each location to be coached and mentored by them and then play as part of a collaborative concert together. Each week the choice has been incredibly difficult to choose from the twelve or so contenders.

At the end of the day’s performances, all the piano players are gathered together and the secret premise, along with the superstars, is revealed. Andrea and Harry spend meaningful time with each of the participants before announcing they are all invited to attend the concert, and the person who will be performing.

This show captivates me on so many levels. Music is such a gift that blesses performers and listeners alike and each week I am moved to tears and filled with joy as I watch everyday Australians share their stories and their gift.

While I could binge watch the whole series there is something special about anticipating this blessing each week. I’m also certain that my mum would have loved this show and many of the pieces I recall her playing and so they hold extra special meaning. I imagine we would have watched it together and shared our thoughts on each participant.

This show has me considering how music plays such an important part in the Bible as part of worship of the Creator God. Songs were written for celebration. Songs were written for mourning. Songs were written in desperation when people had been removed from their homeland and they wanted to remain connected to what they knew. Psalm 150 speaks of the importance to praise God and lists a variety of instruments you could use.

At least seven times in this ancient book of songs it speaks about making a ‘joyful noise’ to God. Note that it doesn’t say ‘tuneful’, but ‘joyful’. This means that it’s the heart that the music is offered, not the technical ability. What Harry and Andrea are looking for in their concert participants is not necessarily the most technically accurate performance, but the person who has the right heart and passion and what they may add to the flavour of the concert.

This show is such a breath of fresh air in a cynical and perfection focussed society that I know I will be sad when it comes to an end. It is such an insight into a delightful slice of humanity that reminds me not to pre-judge, that each of us can bring joy to others when we use our gifts, and it is so important to be joyful over perfect.

So, the next time you are at a loss for what to watch why not check out ‘The Piano’. In doing so I know you will …

Be blessed.