Music for the Sake of Music

Just got back from a concert by a symphony orchestra, a string orchestra, and a wind ensemble. Wow, we live in a talented community!

Sure, the main reason I went was to watch my son perform. I do like to watch him play! There were other familiar faces, too, from his high-school days. So much skill and artistry in one place! 

But the more I think about this particular group, the more I am impressed by its existence. As I recall, a local music teacher formed an ensemble a few years ago so they still had a chance to perform during the summer. It was made up primarily of current and former students he knew. They played challenging pieces, but it was sort of informal, with their first concert at a coffeehouse that supports the arts.

In just a few seasons, it's grown into three ensembles, to include both string and wind instruments. At this evening's show, he pointed out that the youngest member of the group is entering eighth grade, and the oldest is the parent of one entering the ninth. That's quite a diverse group, spanning many ability levels. Plus, there are other participants performing at different times as soloists or in duets and such.

But the best part is, in my opinion, is that they have all joined the group just because they want to! That's right. They don't get paid, and they don't get school credit. I don't think there's any formal audition process like one might find in a civic symphony or similar group. They rehearse a couple of nights a week through the summer to prepare for this one concert. They play music...for the sake of music.

That's a beautiful thing. 

According to their mission statement, the organization wants to provide the community as a whole with opportunities to create music and enjoy music at a high level. I consider myself lucky to live in a community like that.

Every time I go to a concert, of course, I get the urge to bring out my clarinet again. It would take some time and dedication to get back in shape (I've lost my "chops" after so many years!), but this group might just be the motivation I need to really try and see how much of it comes back to me. My son is headed off to college, but perhaps I'll try to join the group. I don't really miss tryouts and competitions and that side of performing. But I must admit that I often miss playing music...just for the sake of music.