“I've never known a musician who regretted being one. Whatever deceptions life may have in store for you, music itself is not going to let you down.” Virgil Thomson, composer
Ever imagined what goes on in a musician's mind as they go about their daily lives?
Or what happens behind the scenes that you don't see?
A Day in the Life
They emerge from the depths of the mysterious backstage, process on. In that moment they are united by the duty and care of another's inception. As the applause fades and the final coughs decay, the inevitability that the music will come to its bitter or sweet end is set in motion. Each player, whether three or a hundred and three, devoutly carrying their fragment of an elaborate tapestry; woven, frayed but importantly hopefully still intact.
It goes beyond what you see on the stage, rehearsal room or silently waiting score on a music stand. It's the subtle way of sharing, connecting and feeling another's intent, nature and vulnerability. A shuffle, a dusting gesture of the thigh offered in a moment of honest connection or understanding; just one of an infinite number of ways in which you never feel entirely alone on the stage. The instance a phrase truly and wholly takes flight in gesture and timing comes about in a pre-meditated but abandoned state. These moments are what bring musicians clambering back for more; an addiction to that sweet taste of knowledge and certainty in being both exposed and free.
This article captures the essence of performing in front of a live audience as a solo artist - we love the buzz you get from imagining this scenario:
In our next blog we will be looking at the inner workings and functioning of a musician and how they reach a consistently high level in performing - watch this space!
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