Beyond the endeavor to create a song, what is it that compels a musician to want to play it for others?
There is a rich mutuality between the performer and the audience. The musician is offering an experience. The audience wants to respond and interact with the experience. The moment of connection between the two can be marvelous, even mystical.
From my background working with musicians, as well as being one myself, I find a kind of paradox at work. The outward performance–the leadership, confidence, and strength–often springs from a place of deep introspection and self-doubt. The writing and performing come, not only from a knowledge of one’s talent, but from an at times oppressive desire to fill a space they have. I have had musicians tell me that they do what they do, not simply because they want to, but that they need to, and thus will suffer and sacrifice to pursue their art. There is a driving energy that fuels the courage it takes to perform and to bear being critiqued as well as appreciated.
My hope is for musicians to have, not necessarily less introspection, but less self-contempt or doubt–that their energy will more and more come from being amazed at their own life journey and at the privilege of inviting people to marvelous, mystical moments.
Posted by Deb 