“Music, once admitted to the soul, becomes a sort of spirit, and never dies.”
~Edward Bulwer-Lytton
Music is who I am. Music is in me, and the music that is inside of me has not died. Music has always been a very important part of my life. I grew up in a musical family—my grandmother and mother were both singers. My mother was also an accomplished pianist like no other. Music flowed in our house daily. I recall walking home from school and hearing music coming from my house, a block or two away! My mother and grandmother were having a great time with music. I could hear my mother on the piano and my grandmother and mother both singing. My friends always looked forward to hearing the music coming from my home.
It was inevitable that music would be in my life. When I began singing as a soloist, I chose my songs based on what I liked. I knew that if I liked the song, my audience would like it, too. The songs had to not only have lyrics I liked, but more importantly, the song had to have lyrics I felt. Feeling the music while singing is crucial for connecting with the lyrics and the music. Connecting with the audience, ultimately makes my performance more impactful and meaningful.
As time passed, I changed somewhat. I began choosing songs based on my life experiences. Choosing songs based on my experiences had meaning to me, and it still does. I can sing these songs with conviction, allowing myself to express emotions authentically, because I have lived the experience; I have lived the lyrics. My belief is when I feel the music, my listeners will also feel the music.
What does music actually do for the performers as well as the listeners?
a. Music improves focus.
b. Music raises morale.
c. Music sets a loving mood.
d. Music makes you feel happy.
e. Music generates hope.
f. Music motivates.
g. Music can make you cry—happy or sad tears.
h. Music even motivates people to break out in a song regardless of musical talent.
Music is, without a doubt, a universal language. I cannot imagine a world without music. It seems as if everybody loves music! I have never met anyone in my life, thus far, say these words: “I don’t like music!” If I did hear these unfortunate words, my being shocked would be an understatement!
A Short True story:
My dad once tried singing a Christmas carol to prove to his singing daughters that he could sing, too! We noticed that he was beginning to look a bit uncomfortable while he was singing. My sisters and I laughed so hard when we realized that daddy was trying to sing the entire song without breathing! While still laughing, my sisters and I yelled, “Daddy breathe!” After catching his breath, Daddy said, “I didn’t know you could breathe and sing! He loved music, though. 🤣
One last thought: Once the audience is engaged with the performer, music can boost happiness and create a sense of togetherness. Let the music bring happiness into your life! Isn’t that the purpose of music? I believe it is!
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