Throughout the ages, wise men have noted music’s profound impact on its listeners. For example, over 2,000 years before the birth of Christ, the musical systems of China were both highly developed and central to its society. It was to this that the philosophers directed much of their attention. Understanding its intrinsic power, they carefully checked their music to make sure that it conveyed eternal truths and could thus influence man’s character for the better
To this end, tradition states that one emperor, by the name of Shun, would monitor the health of each of the provinces of this vast kingdom by simply examining the music they produced. Course and sensual sounds indicated a sick society, one in need of his intervention and assistance.
Two thousand years later the Greek philosopher, Plato, echoed the sentiments of Emperor Shun when he said, “When modes of music change the fundamental laws of the state change with them.”
David Tame, The Secret Power of Music (Destiny Books, 1984) p.34
Plato – ” Through foolishness, they deceived themselves into thinking that there was no right or wrong in music, that it was to be judged good or bad by the pleasure it gave”
Aristotle – Music has the power to form character
Lenin – One quick way to destroy a society is through its music
Bach _ The end of all music should be the glory of God and the refreshment of the human spirit
I started playing the violin when I was six, the guitar when I was seven, and the drums when I was eight. By the early 80′s, I listened to more guitar-oriented bands and I really enjoyed listening to many progressive blues and Jazz-Fusion bands. My guitar playing was most influenced by Angus Young, Van Halen, Steve Vai, Stevie Ray Vaughn, Jeff Beck, BB King, Billy Gibbons, Jean Luc Ponty, Al Dimeola; the list goes on.
I played the Tuba and the String Bass in bands and orchestras in junior and senior high schools. The Tuba fascinated me with its power, and I was moved by the soft sound made when an upright bass is plucked and the deep rich sound it produced when bowed. High school bands and chamber orchestras introduced me to many fine composers & musicians of their day.
I now play for God’s glory alone, no compromises. Before knowing Jesus, I’d even resorted to mind altering drugs in search of inspiration. I no longer need to search for inspiration for music because when I see and experience His love and compassion, music flows with a passion that I’d never thought possible. There is never a stale moment or a used up melody, it is always fresh and appropriate. Nothing the world offers can compare with that.
Music has crossed over from the natural to the spiritual completely. One of the very early examples of what the Lord has worked in my life was in 1999. I had always wanted to play the harmonica, but never could figure it out. One night, while spending time with the Lord, I asked the Holy Spirit to show me how to play. Instantly, my mind opened up to the instrument. I just knew where the notes were, and I started playing immediately.
This has been the case not just with new instruments but with songs during worship; new tunes, lyrics, tones… Right now, without the Holy Spirit, there is no music, just syncopated noise.
It is a blessing to be adore and serve my heavenly father through music. I’ve never been happier as a musician and as a human being.
Songs
I’ve not recorded for a while, but if you’d like to hear some of my songs, please visit: http://www.myspace.com/kodiyil/music