The bible declares that, "Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom" (2 Cor. 3:17). I am a firm believer of that verse, and being a musician, I believe that praise & worship can serve as a powerful influence in setting one free ... especially when the anointing is present, making the Word of God come alive for whoever is listening to the message in song!
I am self taught on every instrument I play, never having had any formalised music instruction/education. If God has given you a gift, use it to glorify Him. And by the way ... your gifting/talent does not have to be in music! "And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; ..." (Col. 3:23). I used to play & sing for the world, but after I got saved, the focus of my music changed. Now I play and sing for the Lord, and to people in need of Jesus the Saviour. Whatever window or door of opportunity the Lord may open which allows me to play & sing, I do not take lightly nor for granted. I consider it an honour & a privilege to be allowed to minister in music wherever I go.
My musical influences range from the likes of Enya, to Robin Mark, to Pink Floyd, to Chris Tomlin, Journey, Jesus Culture, Soulbreather, Led Zepplin, Eden's Bridge, and so many others. I am also influenced by classic masters such as Beethoven, Bach, Chopin, etc.. And I so love the softer, quiter sounds of praise & worship. I do contemporary & celtic styles of praise & worship, so there's a wee bit of variety in how I minister in music.