As someone who has spent better than 42 years studying music, I think I am in a position to comment on what music and the practice of studying music can do for anyone who honestly puts effort into their practice.
The brilliant cellist and pedagogue Pablo Casals was once asked why he maintained his practice regime, even into his 80's. His simple reply, "I think I am starting to make progress." Few of us will ever rival Casals, Andre, Brain, or Heifetz, but we will learn many things that will impact not only our music making but how we live and learn with others and about our self. The article attached below, by Andrew Schwartz, is a simple reflection on some of the lessons learned by a young tuba player as a result of his study of music. It is rare for any musician to not learn about themselves as a result of what they do when they practice making music. Music making is one of the few activities in our world that is so all encompassing; it stimulates the brain, is a physical work out, generates positive emotions and is something that can improve the life of those who listen to and share in our music making. Like many have said, maybe music should be a compulsory class for all students. It can be a vehicle to teach language, mathematics, science; it is a physical workout, it helps with coordination, it improves an individuals attention span and develops the participants ability to cooperate, be empathetic and work together with others towards a common goal.
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I invite you to come by......This section is composed of observations or impressions I have, or others I value, share about music and its power. Archives
August 2019
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