For me, this would be like the sky without the sun. I have had music in my life as far back as I can remember. As a child growing up, my father would play the flute in the evening and I can remember listening inadvertently to classical music as it flowed through the house. I am absolutely convinced that had this not been the case music would not play such an integral part of my life as it does now.
When I was about 5 years old, I asked him to teach me how to play the flute too. He did this till I got to a certain level then said it was best if I got a teacher outside of the family.
This is what I did, got through all my graded exams up to grade 8 then decided to go to university to study music. It seemed to be the logical thing to do, as I couldn’t really think of anything else I was good at and was dissuaded from pursuing my desire to be a doctor or a surgeon by my teachers at school. I wish the teachers who said that, knew what a vastly different life path I have subsequently followed as a result of what may have just been a half thought out throw away opinion statement from the teacher in question.
On reflection, I have discovered much much later in life that the medical route was probably the one I should have taken because that is where my natural strengths and interests still lie. In my mid 50’s its a bit late to go back and change careers now though. My GP and I have joked about my ‘imaginary honorary medical degree’ many many times.
So that leaves me with perfect pitch (a now relatively useless skill!), a natural musical interest and the completely wrong career (music teacher).
Music now has taken on a different role. I listen to music to jog memories, regulate my emotions, and as a way of controlling the disorganised sounds in my social environment.
I listen to playlists of a certain speed when I am cycling, to help me keep my feet rotating at a specific RPM. I listen to calming playlists when I need to relax or am seeking stillness in my day.
And, I have specific pieces of music that evoke specific memories for me (some happy, some sad). So music enables me to transport myself back into those memories when I need / want to.
There are also plenty of times in my day when I need complete silence.
For me, music is never just a background noise, it always has a specific purpose.
What role does music play in your life? I would love to hear from you.
