“If they cut off both hands, I will compose music anyway, holding the pen in my teeth…” said Shostakovich.
Minneapolis, MN, United States
Photo by jpellgen
What is a musician?
“Someone who plays music?” Some answer hesitantly.
“A career you shouldn’t pursue if you want to be successful in life - stop dreaming,” many say. The voices of disapproval are stubborn and constant.
“Well, it can’t be that hard, can it?” Others say. “Someone who composes, conducts, or performs music as a job.”
George Harrison had something else to offer:
“I think people who truly can live a life in music are telling the world, ‘You can have my love, you can have my smiles. Forget the bad parts - you don't need them. Just take the music, the goodness, because it's the very best, and it's the part I give most willingly.’”
“Musician” describes every passionate composer, conductor, performer, student, and producer who gives the gift of music. They are artists in their own right, who tirelessly pursue their unique interpretation of beauty. “Enjoy my music, for it’s what represents me best,” they are saying.
Hopefully, every article here - each a story of a musician - embodies a melody in your mind, whether fragmented or complete, optimistic or yearning, majestic or gentle. We hope these melodies drift and intertwine around you, should your eyes work their way through the seemingly lifeless text, to inspire you and brighten your day.
Because anyone who gives the gift of music deserves to be heard.