Things I’m Thankful For – Day One: Music
Music has been, is, and likely always will be a major part of my life. I grew up with music around me constantly, and singing with the family was a given. I was involved in band for four years, and choir for eleven years (not counting church choirs since). I’ve performed with symphonies, a Caribbean steel drum band, all-state choirs, and select men’s choruses in some of the most exciting venues in the United States. I’ve participated in musical theater for much of my life. I got a degree in music.
I’m more of a music consumer than a performer these days, and that’s okay. As much as I love music and performing, I lacked the drive and discipline to be a professional, let alone be able to support a family. Music has always been a creative and emotional outlet for me.
It’s still fun to share what I’ve learned. Our church choir performed yesterday, and it was a great piece that was fun to sing. Then the music leader for the children’s group went home sick and I got to jump in at the last moment to lead the singing and run two twenty-minute segments with music–and with some of my most favorite music in the world: Christmas music! I had a great time.
But it also reminded me of yet another reason I’m likely better off not being a professional musician. I get choked up too easily. Music can stir deep emotions in me, and it’s awfully hard to sing when your throat is constricting. I was able to control it in the second group, but during one particular song with the younger group I couldn’t sing at least half of the song. That’s fine in front of a group of kids, but it probably wouldn’t go over so well in front of a paying audience.
It’s safer to be a music consumer. It’s also easier to do while working other jobs, though I’m sure my co-workers catch me drumming, whistling, and sometimes even singing along with my headphones from time to time. I can alter my moods with music, raise my energy level, calm my troubled nerves, and help myself concentrate. It’s better than a drug, as it’s 100% renewable, mostly side-effect free, relatively inexpensive, and not physically addictive.
One of my favorite genres is movie soundtracks, and one of my favorites of all time is James Horner’s “Star Trek: The Wrath of Khan” with it’s iconic leitmotifs and gorgeous, sweeping orchestrations. For those in the know, I hope this serves as a little pre-Thanksgiving pumpkin pie.