Higurashi - Dear You (Theishter's Story)

I am empowered that my interest - anime and piano - is worth doing. It's worth something to be an anime fan, it's worth something to be a pianist, even when others tell you you wont succeed in it.
I managed to do what I love even though I never had the chance to learn music theory or classical piano lessons. If I apply to a music conservatory right now, they would reject me because I don't have enough "experience" or "skill". But here I am, a musician on KZbin as a job and career and I couldn't be more thankful for it.
The point is, these negative opinions about us, about anime, about piano, will never go away. It just wont, because that's how the world works. Instead, we should accept that these opinions exist, and we should be proud of our passion regardless. People can mock, scoff, and sneer at what we love, but they will not stop it.
Do what you love, don't let others bring you down and never give up.
Your Anime Pianist,
Theishter

My friend used to love playing this in Piano class...he drowned this year, right before high school graduation. We played this at his memorial... He got it from this video. This exact video. Thank you.

[@randomboi5986]

Rest in peace....

[@thewxtchsheart]

My best regards.. I'm very sorry, may he rest in peace.

[@serengnilsereng]

I hope he rest in peace. May he see you happy and he may will be happy

[@plant5989]

XD bruh

[@天空山田返し]

you.で締めくくられているのが…偶然でしょうけれども感動的ですね…

[@TehIshter]

10 months later, and so many comments about similar experiences... It's inspiring to know that I'm not alone here ;__; “One day, in retrospect, the years of struggle will strike you as the most beautiful.” (― Sigmund Freud). Keep smiling everyone~

[@scrwd4568]

Bro, as a new member, i fully support you. I dont really want to show my family or friends about my love for anime, because they would like just say im lame for crying over a children's/girls' stuff. At least we are all not alone anymore.

[@ShadyChibinko]

Hehe! ^^ You're most definitely not alone! >=E And we'll be here for you the whole way!

[@archibaldsedgewick537]

Dude, your story nearly brought me to tears! I had no idea that so many others have felt this weird polarizing effect anime has. I've found that it's either been a great way of building bridges with other people (read, other fans) or something you have to hide from friends and family to save yourself from mockery. That said, my family tried to teach me piano when I was young and I wasn't interested, but once I found anime piano and sheet music I could learn by, I gained the inspiration to take up piano again and keep playing. Your songs are such an amazing inspiration ishterkun! Thank you from the bottom of my heart!

[@DeadPig325]

dooby doobious!

[@libbybess]

I think a lot of us struggled with loving anime and fitting into 'normal' life, but thats what makes us stronger! We are all here for you!

[@mel-oq6cx]

"I had the same affection for anime and piano, therefore, I decided to combine the two" AND THUS, A LEGEND WAS BORN

[@TheMushyPotato1]

where’s ur pfp from

[@yuinurahilyon5711]

Naisu😂👍🏻

[@HHcz]

Watching anime back then must have been a real pain. I'm so glad that people were able to acknowledge anime and nowadays no one will bully you for liking it.

[@emak1486]

I listened to this music literally hundreds times by now. I come back to this when I need to get cheered myself up, get concentrated on work/study etc. I love it. Thank you!

[@AwayukiMiyabi]

"People were quick to judge anime from first impressions alone" That is one of the most undeniable facts...

[@evewhoo]

Yeah one reason I very much love your piano covers is the feeling I get from listening. You do a great job at that.

[@ripslinger9033]

and also he has very good dynamic changes

[@evewhoo]

ripslinger Yup, yup, that as well. It makes his playing very enjoyable to listen to. I was beyond amazed the first time I heard his playing in the Anohana Secret Base cover.

[@ezrajefferson4963]

Agree ;)

[@そうけんびちゃ-n1j]

なんか、 素直にさせてくれる弾き方ですね。 辛かったことも楽しかったことも思い出して、素直な感情を持つことができます。 なんでピアノを弾くだけでこんなに人を感動させられるんですか。 私はあなたに憧れます。 ありがとうございます。 これからも頑張ってください。

[@夏の海にいく]

いいなあ！^_^

[@itsthesola10]

Music is a language that everyone can understand. Because it does not speak of ideas or concepts. It speaks of emotions. I, too, was moved by this piece. Music is a strange, yet beautiful thing. Don't you agree?

[@amityboi4398]

@@itsthesola10 Music is really beautiful, but those gangster rappers ruined it a bunch.

[@ComradeRemus]

This little melody still means a lot to me. In conjunction with the way it was used in Higurashi, it conveys a message of hope, even the darkest and most horrible situations. It brings back everything those stories made me feel. And this was a very inspired performance. You added to it with your passion.

[@Kokofa101]

I'm 14 now, I started watching Anime and learning Japanese when I was 9. My parents didn't want me to watch Anime because they wanted me to focus on my culture and country (Malta). They used to say stuff like "Anime is for Asians who speak Japanese, not for people from Europe". Well guess what? I've now learnt 9 languages (Japanese is one of them) and continue to watch anime. I even play Anime songs in my school band now. So basically, if you get mocked or stuff for liking Anime and Japanese culture, don't worry and continue liking them. They will open many doors into the future.

[@xAzeewx]

+ZenitexARTS | GFX You learned 9 languages being only 14 years old? That's rather impressive, actually.

[@276KittyGirl]

Impressive troll -.-

[@Aya-ef8on]

+ZenitexARTS | GFX Thank you!!!! I am the same age, and I feel the same way. Funny thing, as I've wanted to explore so many languages as well... and I daydream of Japan in the fleeting moments here when the sun has a certain blazing heat or when the cicadas are orchestrating their weak chorus- It's twice as powerful in Japan in the summer and I like that! I started violin when I was seven and have always had a little Japanese in my life, not so much as American culture (1/2 Japanese, 1/2 white if you will XD ). How many open doors are there when there are so many restrictions? Mental and physical?..... sigh.

[@Kokofa101]

Kitty Ham Haha very funny, this is not a troll at all. if you go to Belgium, some children have to learn 4 languages as a child (English, Dutch, French and German), its not impossible.

[@niconiconii4561]

+ZenitexARTS | GFX yeap and I know 3 at the age of 9 Chinese English Malay. Learning Japanese now, not fluent but I can understand mostly when Japanese people are talking and stuff. Any tips for learning Japanese online?

[@FANNIX-]

You thanked us so much with this video but now it is time for me to say "thank you". You are a really important person in my life. You made me entering anime in it's full glory. Furthermore you made me practise the piano more then ever before. I've had lessons for about 8 years until I quit them. I just weren't able to motivate myself for a continuous practise of classical stuff. So I tried jazz which didn't go well too. Some months later I watched Sao, because everyone did, and liked the opening song very much. I wanted to play that on the piano and searched for it on youtube. I found your cover and all of your other arrangements. I realized that there are so much more anime out there with different topics, storys and feelings. I practised your sao arrangement like I never practised something before. I was so motivated and fascinated that you did this all by ear and learned everything on your own. And finally I was able to play it. I was very proud of me but then I wanted to try arranging by ear for myself. I wanted to play more anime songs, because these emotions and feels you reached me with made me wanting to share my emotions and ideas too. I am 18 years old now and play the piano for about 10 years. But for me the real playing began with discovering you. I haven't watched that many anime yet but I cried and wept often while following the journey of my favourite characters too so I really understand your feelings. These beautiful but also sad feelings, full of excitement. Thank you for bringing me back to the piano and making it a dedication for me. Thank you for showing me the beautiful world of anime and its music. When I listen to your arrangements I can feel all of your emotions. I don't know any other pianist that makes me feel like that. Thank you for these incomparable moments. Arigato~ for everything. This video is so great and sad, damn feels ;_; The song is one of the most beatiful I've ever heared. I live in germany but if there will be a concert where I can get to somehow, I definitely will be there. I wish you only the best for your future and I guess I don't have to tell you but even if you struggle with anything, keep it up and do what is fun to you! (^-^)/ Ganbatte~ Ishter-senpai

[@ShyYukiwaii]

Sounds like we have the same base in our piano playing. The only different is, that you played the piano before you find Ishter and I started with piano-playing through Ishter. I´m 15 Years old and live in Germany, too. Perhaps we will meet us in the future at an Anime-Piano concert ^-^ Ishter and Animenz are my great heroes. I hope to be like them in the future and try to stabilize my dream.In my opinion "Dear You" is the best song to get hope. I dont know why, but it gives me hope in sad days. Ps: Verliere auch du nie die Lust am Klavierspiel. Es ist für mich das bedeutsamste auf der Welt. Auch ich werde immer weiter machen, solange ich kann. Ansonsten noch Liebe Grüße von mir aus Niedersachsen ^-^

[@Fantasiex3]

Your storytelling alone can make anyone cry! That was beautiful, and thank you for sharing your passion and love. :)

[@user-wu9cx3ww4m]

アレンジの仕方や滑らかさ、強弱など全てが素晴らしく感動しました…… 今まで聴いてきたyouの中で一番好きです！

[@theanimepianoartist4228]

After 7 years... You inspired me the most to play piano for anime fans..❣️.. Thanks a lot..

[@tankfire20]

If it's 100% okay to cry about a good book. Then it should be true for a good anime.

[@ariusanimus6985]

Generic Spoofies If only more people would come to understand such a simple concept and get out of the prejudice they have built up towards anime...

[@alexosorio286]

Don't you think it would make more sense, after all? Anime has actual visuals and sound, music like this to make you feel emotional...

[@jugemujugemugokonosurikire4735]

It's 1000% normal to cry

[@TheFel0x]

Absolutely agree. To this day I can't listen to the Anohana music without tearing up a bit.

[@leeworley6727]

Funniest part is that higurashi was a book to begin with.

[@AnimeMidi]

You are such a big inspiration. I love how you put your emotion into your playing and how you can feel it in your performance. Thanks for sharing this music

[@ZackyThePianist]

TehIshter, you really inspired me a lot man.. Your Spice and Wolf OP video which I watched back in 2012.. Those times before I even had this channel and was just starting on anime itself.. I starting searching for anime piano songs on youtube for the first time and found your videos, animenz videos, and alot more.. I was 15 too when I started watching anime back in 2012. What a coincidence :) I have the same "goal" as you. All I know is I enjoy playing anime songs on piano. And when I saw that people got inspired by me too and enjoys the same feels as I do, it had sorta became a goal for me :D To spread the love of anime and anime piano, and piano itself :) Anime Pianist United FTW! :3 I'm in the middle of school lunch break now so I can't type much, but I just want to let everyone including the anime pianists of youtube to know that Anime Piano changed my life too. I can't imagine life without anime or piano now. We should all thank TehIshter and Animenz and ourselves and everyone who created anime and piano. And TehIshter, thanks for inspiring me, and all of us :') (P.S. I realised I shared this video publicly on Google+ when it was meant to be unlisted :o Re-commenting the same thing again :)

[@BgirlSakura]

Its pretty crazy how much I can relate to your story. I'm around the same age as you, 2 months older to be exact. I also found out at a young age that I had an "ear" for music while playing around with a piano at church. I never had the money to take formal classes, so I pretty much self-studied., watching others, looking through books, and now browsing youtube videos. At times, I became unmotivated to keep trying because some of my peers were light years ahead of me since they took classes regularly. I always found my way back to playing the piano though. I found out about anime when I was in high school. My first anime was Inuyasha and their music had me completely hooked. Then I found out about Final fantasy music and the rest is history. My family and friends always complained about why I liked to watch "cartoons" at my age. Instead of telling them, I pretty much let the music do the talking. I just wanted to let you know that you are a big inspiration to me. There were times where I thought it would be impossible to play certain music unless I took years of music class, but watching you play all these difficult songs inspired me to keep practicing and enjoy playing the piano. Sorry for the rambling. I normally don't comment much but your story and this song kind of pulled on my heart strings a bit. O:)

[@シバ-m3z]

ひぐらし最近見終わって、この曲の素晴らしさと同時に重さも理解できた気がする。

[@chi__korin75]

この曲聴くとだめな自分を思い出す。 あの時はこうだったとか簡単に言うと病むけど、 逆に頑張ろうとも思える曲でこの曲は歌詞がなくても感情が伝わるし感動できる。 素晴らしいてことだね。

[@Joaza998]

I was born in Philippines as well. I fell in love with anime and its music too when I was thirteen but my family gave me a guitar to play than a piano. I still love both instruments. And I'm glad that Chobits was your first anime cos it was also my first, too. You have a great talent I am just glad that you are doing the things that makes everyone, including yourself, very happy.

[@Aska2468]

Maybe you should try playing soundtracks from Bakemonogatari. The ones titled starting with "Jikai" are pretty cool and ideal for a guitar

[@Joaza998]

I'll try doing that.

[@leiskorn4139]

Really？！：D

[@Joaza998]

I might

[@fin_briar]

It's alright bro. I was (and still am mocked) by my brother for being depressed from anime. Also, unlike you, I don't know what to pursue. I haven't found anything I'm good at. "Human waste" is what I'd refer myself to.

[@morganrae2614]

Maybe pursue something related to anime? Maybe you could even learn Japanese! That can take you into many international relation related jobs-- plus you can travel and live in the culture that the anime describes. You can also understand the true meanings without having to rely on the translations ^_^

[@hungryhobit]

Haha

[@fin_briar]

***** Noice I played Rewrite too!

[@TehIshter]

There's a saying in which there is always a career for your own passion. The only challenge is to find it. Stay on the lookout and optimistic~

[@Legaliaaa]

Mao Kibling Hahahaha learn japanese. Do you have any idea how hard it is to get a visa to Japan? You can't.

[@zaphyy]

I love how you can put so much emotion in to your pieces! You've always been a big inspiration for me as well as Animenz! Your videos brought me in to the world of anime and I've come to love it! Seeing new videos from you makes me very happy and your sheets have taught me so much about piano! I am very grateful for all you have done for all of us! Keep on playing and inspiring the world! I hope one day to attend one of you concerts!

[@Dstro]

So nostalgic... Reminds me of why I started piano back in freshmen year in highschool

[@hodilton]

OMG, that was incredible! You're amazing

[@NaiNaiLyon]

I can relate to your experiences as well, as I was mocked and still am for my love of music and anime. There is nothing wrong with either. I discovered my passion in music and anime soon after my twelfth birthday, after finishing the series Clannad. I had instinctively replicated melodies on the piano much earlier, however, I never really appreciated the beauty of music all that time. Until I was in the Anime realm, I never felt many emotions. I was plain and lonely. I had nowhere to escape to, for peace, so I ended up going through my heritage and rekindling my love for anime. People never really have understood how anime and music is so precious to me, because I never really show it in fear of being humiliated by classmates and family. I am currently studying to become a composer. Thank you, Ishter-kun, for sharing your story to us. Keep doing what you love.

[@leeroy4022]

My Roomates laugh at me all the time too, i hope someday i could find a place where i can relax and enjoy. Thank you for the music.

[@floflospeed24]

I'll allways remember how my dad used to play pokemon's OP on a little toy piano I had. I tried to imitate him, then became quickly good at finding things at ear. Then I bought my electronic piano, it's still the same one since nearly 10 years. I still play by ear, i'm learning a coldplay medley right now. My dream would be to have a real piano, in my house, later, to play for my kids, play at someone's wedding....

[@That_One_Guy_In_A_Band]

I started playing by ear after picking up guitar. I tried piano, but it just wasn't for me. Then I found out I have an affinity for plucked/strummed, fretted stringed instruments. I later bought a mandolin, and later still a banjo, and a bass guitar. Mumford and Sons used to be a huge inspiration for me, though I've since moved on to punk rock. It's actually a somewhat interesting story, though one for another time.

[@HunterRR65]

It's my pleasure to be at the same birthday with you, 12/27/1990. I live in Taiwan. And listen to your music is really a fantastic experience. You are really a wonderful pianist. Thank you for your sharing.

[@renkersfox9136]

After hearing this beautiful music and reading your story, I feel like there's no need to hide your passion and devotion on something. I had a passion for drawing. When I started drawing, it was a sour start. My drawing was mocked and I think I'm a failure as a drawing artist. But I didn't give up. I practiced everyday to improve my art and now? I had my own Deviant Art channel. Although it's still a rough start, I'm still determined to show my art to the world.

[@tachy6s]

Tehishter....we anime fans/viewers of your videos also love you! I almost cried ;( although I really do Congrats you on your amazing ability and your success! Keep on playing and we'll keep on giving support!

[@NYippii]

This made me cry :( I'll be supporting you and Animenz! For as long as I live. I'll never forget what you two have taught me, and as an Anime Pianist myself, I understand exactly how you felt. Being mocked by others for your love of anime. I'm no way near as good as you and Animenz on the piano. Even though I've been playing since the age of 3, watching anime since 11 and am now 14, I'm still no way near as good as the 2 of you. Never give up, Theishter. All of your fans are here for you ^O^ I am a great fan of you and Animenz, so don't disappoint me lol xD You may not know it, but the 2 of you were what sparked my passion to put 2 of the thing I love together. You are both what keeps me playing the piano, to be at your level. Thanks, guys :D

[@alphardconsencino7819]

I understand that feeling mister piano guy, i always liked anime since i was around 14 or 15. At first I was obsessed, but i quickly realized that not everyone will see anime the way many of us do. In my opinion, i think anime is one of the best ways of storytelling created, but it isn't a way to escape reality. So to those who just started liking anime, it's good to remember that reality will always be there and it's best not to live in a fantasy world. Go out there and chase whatever hidden passion you have! :)

[@Jenny-js7gd]

There is just so much emotion coming from this video. From a fellow pianist to another, a fellow anime fan to another, a teen girl to you, theishter, I just wanted to say that you are absolutely amazing. Thank you for sharing your story

[@iiMomentai]

Back here in 2021 reading your inspirational story all over again. I'm just mesmerized by your drive and story. Drawn to this all over again. 🤍

[@Zelly4eva]

Once again, I cried. And this time I cried even more, now knowing how powerful your emotions really are.

[@faithfulfox4117]

theisher... i know you probably will not see this comment, as it is buried among thousands of other comments. i know that you will never know me, or know that i even exist. but i want to thank you. i want to tell you what you meant to me, and still mean to me today. i was young, and i was going to quit piano. i thought it was not worth it. i thought what i was giving was not what i was getting out of it. then i saw your channel. i saw, through you, what devotion towards piano and anime could do. i looked at your hands... and i saw myself. and for that, i thank you. thank you for giving me the strength to move forward, for giving me hope when i had none. thank you for the will to continue in a skill i was going to give up. thank you for everything.

[@mariazeitouni6216]

I'm the same. I was about to quit piano when I was 15, and then I discovered anime. But it's thanks to people like Theishter that I linked the two and started to really enjoy playing the piano (actually I think I even enjoyed anime more). Now I'm truly thankful because piano and anime have both become really important to me. I know that I would regret if I had given up. So, for giving me (and a lot of others) hope and passion as well as beautiful videos, THANK YOU ❤️

[@ericde6092]

Caps

[@Kolop315]

I completely forgot this song and then BAM instant nostalgia! Thank you so much and you also have a great story, I think many people can relate. Once again thank you so very much.

[@ultrabrandon12]

this made me cry... i know the same feelings as you, for both piano and anime. in fact i had a near identical experience. only, when i was 7, i was introduced to the piano, and when i was 12 i was introduced to anime. and just like you, chobits was one of the first ones i watched. its amazing how similar people can be.

[@K-247]

Same! I was introduced to piano at 7 but introduced to anime at 11!

[@xqero41]

Being able to play by ear is a superpower.

[@Shidoooo]

17 years old, i work, i eat, i sleep, i wake up and i did those things again again. I everytime wanted to play piano, be an gentleman, have friends, be interesting, smile. Actually, i'm nobody

[@illusemytrustyfryingpanasa9249]

I feel you. Thats what my life is about haha *insert sad laugh here*.

[@Shidoooo]

:)

[@bordeterre5234]

You really ARE someone :). If you were nobody you would not write a comment. Nobody do nothing, and writing is something, So you are someone. Just by the existence of this comment, this Level of reasoning is possible for I. What do you think, everyone ?

[@Shidoooo]

Yeah, x) It was just an "hyperbole" ^^

[@bordeterre5234]

I was once like this. No matter how hard I tried, I wasn't able to speak to anyone. Then, a "miracle" happend. This miracle was a boy in my class, who has once the same problem. Without even knowing who I was, he talked to me, became my friend, and I became more and more sociable, thanks to him. Then, in order to be interesting to my new friends, I started learning cello. Now, I am 16, and I am very happy about my life. All thanks to this boy. Were do you live ? If we are close enough, can I become your "miracle" ?

[@そうけんびちゃ-n1j]

この動画を見て、あなたに憧れてピアノを独学で始めてみようと思えたんです

[@neoneo7409]

頑張ってね！自分もピアノやってる人として応援したいです

[@高杉と青葉の声が同じだという]

頑張ってくださいね

[@pj7371]

"Its worth something to be a pianist, even if others tell you you wont succeed in it"

[@YunaPhoenixful]

I am so touched by your story. I've always been a huge lover of anime and of music. I started violin when I was six and piano only recently. I've always felt ashamed of loving anime, and even to this day I keep it to myself. I haven't found that place yet where I'm not alone in the world, but I'm glad that you have. Keep doing what you're doing, you are amazing and I love listening to you play.

[@bean_ut]

You ever write out a long comment and then realize there may be hundreds of comment's that yours may be mirroring and then delete it? Yep.. a little bit of most comments said. Glad you kept up with this, I was specifically searching higurashi-dear in piano and you're the first that popped and I'm glad I found you!

[@chrischeng5123]

I love this song so much. And i love your story. It touched my heart and made me tear up because I can relate so much. Thank you for making me happy, never stop making music. We'll be with you forever and ever.

[@TheSkiesAwake]

Absolutely love this piece, Theishter. It's the first piece I ever studied on piano. Choosing this piece to start as my first was extremely difficult. It took me nearly 2 years to fully get down pat, but through that journey, it only became closer to my heart. Thank you.

[@akhirahsparkle3384]

Skies - Piano Covers & Arrangements Hi this is the first piece I (almost) learnt how to play too

[@llenn9116]

You just shared on the wrong people. We are here afterall. 😊 I love anime and I love music as well. And when I watched Your Lie in April, it made a really big impact on me, and it became one of the reasons why I wanted to go back to playing piano. Because like Emi, Kaori, and Kousei and the other musicians, I want to reach people by my music. I want them to feel what I feel... I want them to hear it. And I think that's how I want to share my experience with watching Anime to those who can't really relate. 💗 I hope you are able to read this. Ang galing niyo na po. Sana maging katulad niyo rin po ako. 😊

[@effoffgougle8328]

6 years on I still rewatch and remember the first time I saw this as a teenager and cried from it. Love you, thanks for still being active and making covers

[@patrickvalk]

I got a tear in my eye from reading your story and hearing the beautiful music. I so feel your story of being mocked for the thing you love, it's awful. Glad you now get the appreciation you deserve!

[@GauthierAlice]

I feel the same way. Animes give me a world. They inspire me to draw, to play the piano, to code website, to question myself... I was lonely with my feelings but animes undersood me.

[@maroonsheepo]

I'm sort of glad that didn't have to experience people I knew hating on anime. All the guys and girls I knew liked it, and even the 'cool' kids watched the bigger name ones like One Piece or Bleach; and they weren't just fellow Asians. I think that everyone can enjoy it, it's just that all dem ecchi's that overshadow most of the splendid work of others. My elder sister used to think anime was for perverted children until I showed her Howl's Moving Castle.

[@BedrockSolid]

I am half Filipino, I'm 11 years old, I started watching anime when I was 10. I was using my computer and discovered my skill for playing by ear. I have tried to learn piano, and I've taught myself long and hard songs like Death Waltz (Last Brutal Sister Flandre S), but my fingering is awful. I'm taking piano lessons in 2015, so I can get the fingering ready and play masterpieces, from classical to anime to Touhou. My first anime (that wasn't Pokemon or DBZ) was Attack on Titan. Every episode brought me to tears. Thankfully I had otaku friends and my non-otaku friends didn't even care, so I was in the safe zone. I continue to watch many animes such as FMA, One Piece, Madoka Magica, SAO, Cowboy Bebop, Bleach, Fairy Tail, and others. I now arrange music in a format called "black MIDI," I arrange other songs to my satisfaction, and I even compose my own songs. I can simply touch the piano and accidentally learn a new song now. It's a very nice gift, thank you God. Someday I wish to be known by many. I strive constantly by uploading a variety of works to my channel. Ishter and Animenz are pianists that I look up to now. I didn't know there were so many people I could relate to, in this video and in the comments. Very interesting.

[@ShyYukiwaii]

Hi, I´m an Anime-Pianist, too. All of the people said to me, that it´s too late to study the piano. This is why I started to play the piano when I was 14. Now I´m 15 and can play very well. In the beginning I was very disappointed because I don´t have an absolute pitch. But I did not want to give up. And so I practice and practice a very long time. My fingering is, for one who has play the piano for 1 year, very very great. This is why I´m a fast learner in everything and I have a great memory^^ Isther and Animenz are my heroes, too. I want to be an Anime-KZbin-Pianist in my future. Actually I wanted to start Yesterday with recording this piece, but my camera says "nope" falls down an broke^^ So I need a new camera before starting :D Greetings from Germany :)

[@BedrockSolid]

***** I like french fries, the world doesn't revolve around you. (inb4 reply regarding hypocrisy)

[@mavensivan2077]

Listening to this and reading your story made me cry. I also kept my love for anime a secret. And I was also born in the Philippines. Masaya ako dahil na gawa mo ang gusto mo at na reach mo yun mga dreams mo. You are one lucky and talented person.

[@LunchableSandwich]

Beautiful story. I have never met you, but I am so very glad you shared your story with us and are following your dreams.

[@neoneo7409]

リズムが、心に染みる感じのスピードでとても感動します

[@redsalmon9966]

I used to hate anime, for no reason, and i always judge them without watching them.Now, I am not loving it, but i like it, i accepted it.I realized that anime can move people, they can tell a story in a different way, it make me to think, think about people, the world, the universe, and myself. I am blaming the me that used to hate anime, but I want everyone to know that, anime has Its own potential which is unique and irreplaceable.

[@redsalmon9966]

i am not blaming*

[@mbaihaqi30]

People tend to think that animes was for kids. But for me, it's more than that.

[@みやび-j3r]

すごすぎ涙出てきた。

[@animeviky8]

Wow the song mixed with the story moved me so much I cried. Thanks for sharing, and helping me remeber that I'm not alone and that there is a place where we can always fit in.

[@ImSlimmyJimmy]

this song fits so much i cried.But im happy that you finaly get to show your love for anime to the world

[@discozillah]

Hello there Ish! Even though I'm not sure if you will read this, I decided I wanted to write a piece of my own life story as well since you did that with this video. I came across your videos around 2 years ago when Guilty crown was incredibly overhyped, I just got into anime after a severe depression and I thoroughly liked it. I was not a natural talent like you, I have taken piano lessons for the past seven years and even though I always loved the instrument, I never gotten anywhere near to your level of skill. (Hell, I think I even asked you for advice like a year ago, which you did actually answer :D) This however did not hold me back to practice one of your easier transcriptions of the Guilty Crown OST: Euterpe. I think I still have a video of me playing the piece somewhere, but it will probably be the worst play you've ever seen someone doing it hahaha. I think my interest for piano gradually decreased to the point that I was not interested in playing it anymore. After all, I practiced hard for 8 years to (seemingly) no avail so I gave up. I did not watch your videos that much after that, until my sisters boyfriend actually linked your account to me, asking if I knew your channel. I was honestly surprised because I did not know he knew anime, I asked how he got across it and if he knows the source of your video's and he responded: I have no idea where it comes from, I just like the music. This made me wonder, he is not the only one that has reached your channel this way; without knowing what anime is at all. So it is true that you are showing people how wonderful anime really is! I just felt sharing this with you, since you made this video. I can't consider myself to be a regular of your video's anymore, but I do consider myself an 'old fan'. I wish you will have a wonderful time playing the piano! (oh and not to mention I am half Filipino as well :D)

[@xXAsunaxKiritoXx]

I guess I am in the same boat as ishter.... My first anime was Clannad and I cried so much and felt the sadness and pain the main character felt..... I opened my heart and told so friends about but.... Just like istler I was mocked about crying to girly Japanese cartoons and I was devastated......people where quick judge the appearance and gave it as as there impression on it.. I hated it so much so I pretty much closed myself off from everyone else including my family.... I was pretty much the only person who watched anime...nearly my entire school life none of my friends knew anime even existed expect me.......but once I entered Highschool I was still scared to open my heart about anime until I made friends who do watch anime and that's when I finally felt where I belonged.....some were the same as me and wanted some to talk about anime later on second semester we finally made an anime club... Probably the first in my school to have an anime club...we did lots things to get people to know anime more than just looking at the cover... Over the months we saved enough money and went to an anime con.. that our clubs first completed goal...... When I saw this video I know how you feel cause we both nearly had the same goals... I remember when I went and saw you at Singapore with animez... I never felt alone any more.... After 4 years of isolation..... And now I feel confident telling about anime now. Watching this I finally get to let all my emotions fly............. See you guy later... ,your pianoist student..

[@frawzt]

feel you ; _;

[@Norixciii]

Hmm. I've always known that things like anime, video games can get people to look down on you but.. I've never really seen it really affect anyone before. Pretty stupid because all these people that hate on video games or anime thinking they're childish or wastes of time probably spend time watching movies or reading books (non-educational ones). I mean really? Video games are not just call of duty, and I don't even play that. Unfortunately I have one sibling who just despises video games, thinking they're something you outgrow. But she loves books and watching netflix. How strange! I wonder when she'll outgrow books and netflix, according to her logic. /endrant You have an amazing talent, a skill that I'd love to have naturally. The greatest people... have always been mocked by others. Whether it's the 2 guys who built the first plane, or Einstein. Bruce Lee, an inspiration to many.

[@VoraXYZ]

So true. I have friends who say that it's ridiculous to feel sad over something that didn't actually happen in real life (anime plot). My best friend's one of them. Some people just don't get that anime goes beyond some cartoon which you should take so lightly. Anime evokes emotions because, as people, we are able to relate to them. *Sigh* Somehow, they think they're too mature for video games, cartoons and anime, yet go on things like HugeLol or 9Gag. It's strange.

[@MusicMike512]

True passion. Probably the most attractive thing in this universe. But also something that some people just aren't able to truly understand. I can relate in many ways. I'm passionate about classical music, film scores, video games, anime culture...and it's just a terrible feeling when I feel like I have to hold back my passions due to the fear of being judged, or simply because other people won't understand and it feels like I'm wasting my energy on the ones who just can't reciprocate, which would be most people in my life. And often times I have to deal with people indirectly telling me that pursuing classical music just isn't practical enough to make a living. It's like I have to constantly put a muzzle on myself just to be "safe", or pretend to not care about what other people say but at the end of the day, I find myself not being able to stop thinking about what other people say. Then I feel alone and closed. But the worst part about that, is that it becomes a habit and I start getting used to this negativity. And then this loneliness starts to feel "normal". Thanks for sharing your story with us. It inspires me to stay strong and to be patient because I know one day I'll be able to discover and surround myself with people who truly understand.

[@canapechan]

Omg i'm so touched by your words and pianos, you're right, i hide my interest in anime from people around me, cuz I know they judge an otaku as "weirdo".. we're in the same boat and I think you're like motivating me to be proud and brave having hobbies like this :" thank you so much, you've done a very good job 👍

[@WTDGL]

If you are from the Philippines can you still speak in Filipino? :3 Im from the Philippines myself and I would like to know if you still speak Filipino! Love your piano covers, playstyle and everything. Hoping to become a pianist myself but im having trouble.

[@TehIshter]

Yep, still perfectly fluent in Tagalog~

[@WTDGL]

Nice :)

[@rhys6238]

Im filipino too!

[@wskhy21]

yeps, may filipino din dito , ang galing talaga ni Theishter - Anime on Piano , ang ganda ng story mo :D

[@JoseFlores-zu6ys]

~Conch~ filipino too bruh

[@_po_no]

自分もyou弾けるけどこんな複雑じゃない、、、 しかもこの人のピアノは音と音が滑らかになってて到底真似できない、、 らすさびの盛り上げかたとかたまにはいるアレンジはとりはだものでした、、

[@auliayuniar1288]

Oww man hear your story, my heart is melting 😭,, it's true not everyone know the true potential of anime, and they just judge from the cover

[@noctturnal1281]

This is amazing! When you close your eyes and listen to the piano, you can feel all of the emotions that were put in to this piece. I think this is by far, the most emotional piano piece I have heard.

[@moviewookie6580]

It's very interesting to hear stories about people being mocked or ostracized as a result of enjoying anime. Where I am from, Hong Kong, everyone seems to be obsessed with anime, and Japanese culture as a whole. While I love samurai films, Metal Gear Solid and some anime films, like the original Ghost in the Shell, I never got into the anime, because I often found the plotlines incredibly confusing and the cinematography plus art style unappealing, but that's just my opinion. One thing I can appreciate, though, besides from the incredible amount of work put into crafting every frame of an anime, is the acoustic music, which sounds absolutely wonderful in this video, and I respect all die-hard anime fans and their incredible dedication to this art form. Just want to say that not all non-anime fans disregard it as an art and mock its fans, and it is good to see how far it has grown.

[@pianohero87]

oh the feels ;________; Anime can be so heart-wrenching and touching to anyone, yet it's something so real, yet unreal at the same time. The stories told by great story tellers like Mari Okada, Gen Urobuchi, and others are extremely real. So real, that viewers would want to reach into the screen and get pulled into the world of anime. But, this is the part which is unreal. The medium in which these stories are told are in another world, a world which we cannot immerse ourselves into. Even the most intense anime fans can't do this. We can only fantasize living with our waifus or living along with our favorite characters as friends. But it's never real. We only can't fantasize so much. Can we immerse ourselves in anime? We can. It is through the music in which we can channel the emotions, the story, the characters, the relationships in an anime. It is the only link we have to connect our kokoro's (get the refference lol) with this other dimension. To hear the music of an anime in real life, we can directly experience all the feels again. We don't need to fantasize anymore. We are living in it, and are using it to not only tell the story of the anime, but also the experiences of our own lives. As I play a song from a soundtrack, I think about not just the anime, but also similar instances in my life in which the music would fit. This really helps me to think back and relate the two to make the best of my own life. Thank you for making my fantasies come to life senpai so that I can make my life even better. I hope that you will continue to be sugoi and give me the doki dokis with your music. I want to be like you, and Animenz, and share this love of anime--the stories, the emotions, my own life, everything. It really is animating--bringing things to life. ONWARDS DESU! ANIME PIANISTS UNITED!

[@DiamondketoPiano]

ONWARDS DESU!

[@andrewhsu7202]

*comes back after 2 years* still god damn amazing.

[@Yunaofficial0111]

your story made me cry...because of all this beauty♥

[@lovingbtsforever8195]

This is such a emotional story and it gave me hope. And I like how well you express your feelings through piano as well. This is a really inspirational video; well done.

[@wizardbab]

1. How did I not find this sooner? 2. You are exactly 364 days older than I am. 3. We share similar stories, in that we discovered our play by ear talents and channeled it to anime (although we all and the Internet have to agree that yours is dozens of times better than mine) 4. I also have been laughed at for loving my emotionally inspiring anime stories. 5. You're easily my top two KZbin inspirations. You're a big reason I continue to do what I love: playing anime music on the piano.

[@DJrock1470]

i watched this and i said me: WOAH THIS IS A NICE SOUNDTRACK *searches higurashi* me:wtf is this....

[@DJrock1470]

+Melon its kinda violent

[@scorcher849]

+Hot Microwave It is a story about true friendship underneathe it all.

[@DJrock1470]

+Slender Mann yeah its good cause its about friendship. but dude its so violent...

[@chirpchirpy123]

We can say that one eye opening arc was fucked up.

[@Соня-ч6э8щ]

Hot Microwave the vn is better than the anime

[@零崎識織]

わぁぁあ！ ひぐらしだしyouだしなんか嬉しい♪

[@ElectroBlastLuigi]

I found the song in Osu! It's a game you can play on your computer and Windows Phone (where I found the song). It's free and you can make your own account there, it will let you chat other people, submit your scores online and play more songs on there. You can make your own as well. It you know games like Dance Dance Revolution and Just Dance, this is kinda like that.

[@TheArcherboy14]

gosh.. that was awesome! you too had a emotional life, just like an anime, and mine was like that too. on my country, anime isn't very popular and every time I tell someone that I were an anime fan they replied “anime is a child thing " or “I can't believe that you like that silly cartoon".I still have the dream of making an anime on my country that will show them all what I was taking about.

[@ayelll]

I watched it again because of youtube algorithm. And I would say that, what an amazing life story, TheIshter!

[@yazasaka7155]

Did only I cry? ;-;

[@stephaniexu9170]

no

[@ZuzannaStella]

no ;-;

[@Filexsis]

nope

[@bry345]

no

[@xnickston]

no

[@epicool1821]

Lucky me i have, right now friends who have the same hobby as me , we are otakus but in reality we are busy as hell and whenever im down i always watch anime and it all goes away. Anime is like a mother for me who'll comfort me and who'll encourage me to live longer

[@Honeypot00]

you sir..have a great talent..keep up the awesome work!

[@tonyherrberg2973]

DAANNNGGGGG. :-O

[@tonyherrberg2973]

DAAANNNNGGGGG. :-0

[@tonyherrberg2973]

Do u hav a ps3

[@Honeypot00]

no but I have a xbox 360

[@tonyherrberg2973]

Oh .... noooôooooooooooooooooooooooooo:-)

[@jaminfedora5107]

I have to watch and listen to your anime covers every week. I 2 play by ear and ur covers have inspired me to play more piano! I love to try and cover ur versions of these anime songs. There are so beautiful! Please come play in S. Jersey!

[@demonicrang3r693]

wow u and animenz would be great to watch. i love listening to yours and animenz piano playing.thus i watch and learn all the pieces i enjoyed listening to that you and animenz create

[@PartiturasParaViolino]

Nice! Good job!

[@SerahValentine]

Beautiful, just beautiful.

[@DaGyi]

I love Anime too, but my parents think it's not good to watch for teenagers… I started watching Animes when I was 7, but not really loved it. After 7 years , I loved it very much. First anime I like is Lovelive. It is touching. I cried for it after watching it. After that, I watched more and more animes. But I still hide my interesting, watching Animes.

[@cherweechin6064]

we all thank you too Theishter, for making more people appreciate anime. and you're wrong, you're skillful enough , even for some skillful pianists to learn from you, and your idea about music.

[@WateryIce54321]

"Story-telling", for some reason it makes me happy that you also refer to animes and directors this way.

[@vincentmartin4509]

You make me cry.. :'( I love your music, keep play until your end! I will keeping listen you from Belgium! :'D

[@pennywisedancingclown692]

you are so cool, and the piano play is also beautiful

[@Kougeru]

Our stories seem really similar except I dont have any talent lol. I said "screw you" to all the people who made fun of my love for anime back in 04-05 when I was 15. No one should ever hide who they really are, for any reason.

[@tachy6s]

Yes I agree with you, I told my friend I loved and watched anime and he started to judge it like it was some killing monster...well at least i know I'm not alone

[@hellraiser217]

FusionMinecrafterz I believe my retort was "for someone who so enjoys watching people get tortured, and killed, fictional or not, I do not believe you have any right to judge."

[@Zayler501]

FusionMinecrafterz Idk about you guys... But at my school animes are kinda popular... Only in my class we have like 6 anime fans...

[@Kougeru]

Zachary Lerner Different times. Anime fans were bullied when I was in high school which was 07 and earlier. Middle school was more accepted and obviously in elementary school it was "cool". Times have changed as it has become more mainstream and people realize it's NOT all for kids. It's similar to how video games use to be only for "kids and nerds" but now are accepted for adults.

[@fokjohnpainkiller]

Kougeru "Different times" Nope just luck... I'm 15 now (turning 16 in around two weeks) and during the whole year of I guess 10th grade or smth? I met like one guy who watches anime and he watched Dragonball back in the day... There might have been a person or two more but I couldn't tell. I feel like I'm the only non totally social awkward person that is regularly having fun watching anime in a 5km radius... We're pretty lonely us otaku's here in Greece, and we are definitely made fun of and underestimated, so I am pulling off an "oreimo" where I don't show my hobby to anyone to have friends. A shame really :(

[@牟田さん]

とても感動しました！ 強弱の付け方がとても上手で今まで見てきたものの中で一番です！

[@NigelMilesGregory]

I can't get over how incredible you are on the keys, and the one you did with Tokyo ghoul I can't get enough of.

[@leekaiwei]

that was awesome

[@allentian1579]

Who out here disrespecting anime. I never cry, like when I broke my nose or during movies or books, but like, man dis anime hit different.

[@spacecowboy915]

:) This made me very, very happy.

[@maianunya1721]

indeed

[@adorableanh9511]

Maia Nunya me too i thought only me think anime is the whole world

[@UnknownAlienSpecie]

i fapped to it

[@maianunya1721]

Adorable Anh XD nope what's your fave?

[@Abayas.]

UnknownAlienSpecie To each their own, I suppose...

[@hannahlee5277]

My brother had said to me to stop watching anime saying I'll get bullied but it's nice knowing I'm not alone, also, you are so good at playing piano! So beautiful!

[@ephraimshepherd2626]

man its like finding another me. even i love anime and piano too much. my parents say say i waste a lot of time watching it and trying to play those sound tracks. ur vid made me cry. thats amazing that there are people like me. gud to know about that