The Musical Notes of My Life's Measures

I suppose I never really thought of music as an instrument that has shaped my life and made me the person that I am today. Music was always just something that seemed to be there. My dad played the bass for an 80's rock band called "Lucksinger" and still plays recreationally for the "Burnin' Blues Band", most popularly known as entertainment at various local Antelope Valley restaurants, such as Fresco II. Thus, music was always a part of my growing up. As a musician, you can just imagine my father's pride when his elementary aged daughters requested to be enrolled in violin lessons.

Before I began playing, I was a country music girl to the core. I was Shania Twain's biggest fan. I sang to her songs on a daily basis, whether I was in my room or my parents' car. I can still remember the tone of my parents' voices when they reluctantly asked "Again?" to my request of Shania's music. Singing, especially to her music, was a passion of mine.

As an aspiring seven year old violinist, a different form of musical arts was introduced to my life. With it, self-discipline, persistence, and patience played a major role. Constant practice and repetition of various scales, posture, and short songs required discipline. If  had not sincerely wanted to learn, there was no way I would have continued. From third grade until my eighth grade year, I worked hard playing in the school orchestra, as well as being hired to play recreationally at private parties and special events around the Valley. My freshman year in high school, I played the role of the Fiddler in the school's production of Fiddler on the Roof. I have been playing the violin ever since.

In middle school, I tried out for the school worship team and was approved. I loved singing my heart out for the glory of God. In high school, I enrolled in the musical theatre/drama program. I wanted to try my hand at acting and singing together. My first major production, Bye Bye Birdie, occurred my sophomore year and I was cast as the lead, Rosie Alvarez. With voice lessons and much rehearsal, I felt accomplished with my role. In the following years, I played more school roles, as well as participated in community theatre.

Being an active participant in the musical world, I would tend to believe that it is impossible for anyone to live their lives unaltered by music. Hearing loss is not an excuse. In middle school and early high school, I participated in Signs of Worship, a group where American Sign Language was performed to music to bring God glory. Every one can participate in music.

Music brings people together. Whether it be concerts or worship, groups of people will gather for one cause: to celebrate music. Whether one person likes R&B music and the other indulges in more of a country feel, those two people still have something in common. They both appreciate feelings being expressed and being put to music to share. No matter what background, race, or religion, thousands of Americans will unite together to sing The National Anthem at a game. No matter what background, race, or religion, thousands of pre-teens and older will gather together at a Lady GaGa concert or Justin Bieber concert, etc.

I expect music to continue bringing people together, especially when studied and analyzed together. Music is a language that everyone can speak. Share your ideas with the world.