| “The path … is not through becoming the best player, but the best person.”—Philip Sudo, in Zen Guitar |
Philip Sudo, in Zen Guitar, advises, “The path … is not through becoming the best player, but the best person.” All the parts of my life, including music, are deeply intertwined. When I function on a higher level in my relationships, or deepen my spirituality, my music becomes better. When I work hard at improving my playing, I relate to people in a new way and am more connected spiritually. As Robert Dick recently wrote on the FLUTE list: “Dig the music, dig into the music, and dig into yourself doing it.”
Skill is less important than honesty, integrity, and conviction. These elements of living, vital music have nothing to do with talent. When you see a child playing with deep ernestness, don’t you hear the beauty in that, even if his skill level isn’t mature? The same is true for adults; the truth within the heart of the music shines through when the musician plays sincerely.
I constantly work on deepening my gratitude, knowing that being grateful is one of the most important things to do in life. I could so easily feel bad because I can’t play as well as a famous flutist I hear on a CD. But I can just as easily think about the average person on the street, who can’t play a musical instrument at all, and be grateful for the gift of ability! When a friend asks me to play at her wedding, I can give her music as a gift. When a neighbor is sick, I can run across the street and play comforting songs.
Remember that wall filled with many niches? Claim one – or several – for your own. If the niche you want isn’t available, you can create it. People often say that I’ve done a good service for the community by hosting the musicales. I’m happy to serve the community, but truthfully, I started them for myself. I wanted a performance venue, and I created it.
Other people have found different niches. One of my adult students loves chamber music; although she’s a full-time physician and mother of two teenagers, she finds time to play in groups several evenings a week. Some folks want to play alone on the beach, just for the seagulls. Others enjoy performing for senior citizens in retirement communities, or coaching children in schools. Many find joy in a flute choir or a village band or orchestra. Myriad niches exist for those who make music.