Do You Really Mean It?

Again and again this question arises in relation to music study, teaching, and performance at every level.

Does it matter whether you do or don't?

When I think of how much music has meant to me throughout my life, even during those periods when I tried to convince myself that it didn't really matter all that much, and of how much it means to my adult children, there is no question that music is to each of us life and health, joy and fulfillment.

It is asking a lot to expect young parents to subscribe to that potential in relation to any activity that does not come with a demonstrable market value.  I suspect it gets harder and harder for young adults to imagine that it matters.

I once told the parents of a new young student that music was not about achievement but about one's heart and soul.  It turned out to be a high standard for both the child and myself to live up to.