Why Play?
I hear this question asked, no whispered, by professional musicians all the time. I ask it of my students constantly. It is sort of a small form version of one of the great philosophical questions. Why are we here? Let me break down some typical responses and at least think about this important inquiry.
1. I don't know. There are two levels to this answer. The first is really "I have never really thought about this." I've never understood this. We have precious little time on Earth to spend it not deciding if something we do is important.
The second level of "I don't know" is I have asked this question and still am deciding what I think the answer is and I might never come up with one. This is intellectually honest which I can respect but I don't think it is the only answer that can work.
2. I do it for others. Benefiting others is a noble cause. My follow up question then is why music? If your primary goal was to benefit others you could join a charity, help at a homeless shelter, volunteer in troubled communities, or be a mentor.
We will continue this train of thought tomorrow...
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