A discourse on why it is profitable for anybody (at least anybody
reading this material) to pursue the study of a musical instrument.
At a basic level, playing a musical instrument requires some degree
of physical agility. No matter what type of instrument is being
played, physical control and stamina are prerequisites to a satisfying
performance. However, music also has an intellectual side. Patterns
of rhythm, melody, harmony, texture, and formal structure interweave
to form a limitless world of complex and simple possibilities.
But, beyond both physicality and intellect, music is, at its best,
a form of self-expression. In music, one can express anything
from trivial surface thoughts to the deepest pains from the bottom
of the soul. Combining the above ideas leads to the conclusion
that practicing a musical instrument provides a unique opportunity
to harmonize the body, mind, and soul. They work together to achieve
an end which is pleasing to all.
The skill level that one eventually climbs to is not as important
as the climb itself. This is a case where the 'journey is the
reward.' It is impossible to be dishonest and improve to any great
degree. Every practice session requires a truthful assessment
of your present capacity. If a practitioner refuses to bravely
accept both her current strengths and weaknesses, she is only
impeding her own progress and harming herself. In learning to
be honest with oneself and working towards a clear goal that is
at once physical, intellectual, and spiritual, one is really learning
how to become a better person.
