Music is foundational. Music is restorative. Music is memory.
When I think of the significance of music in my life, I can’t help but feel grateful for its existence. For each memory, I have a clear soundtrack that goes with it. From moments of pure inspiration and joy – performing as part of a youth orchestra – to escaping into a favorite CD to escape life’s difficulties, music is there for me every step of the way.
The first significant loss of a family member, I’ll be Missing You was on the radio non-stop. The next loss, I had Evanescence’s Fallen album on repeat. Visiting independent music stores while travelling have given me a veritable treasure trove of international music. TC Terencia Coward’s CD from Barbados, The Corrs first release from Dublin, the Safari Sound Band from Kenya, and even the compilation CD from Club Amigo in Cuba are all a part of the soundtrack to my life.
While the true origin of music is unknown, it is proposed that music was a part of human culture as far back as the pre-historic era. Music is believed to have been part of societal cultural development throughout the progression of time. Even in the animal world, many species use song as a way to communicate. Whales sing. Birds sing. Even alligators sing when feeling particularly amorous. In many ways, music is a foundational way to communicate.
Now, music has evolved from a source of communication to an expression of art, ideas, and emotion. Is there any better feeling than the opening song of a concert by your favorite artist? The house lights go down, the audience collectively holds their breath in anticipation of that first note, and then deafening cheers as the first chord is played. It’s pure joy, and yet, so much more. It’s comfort, familiarity, and uplifting.
Music is also more complex in its execution than ever before. Bands seek out recording studios that ‘feel right’, almost as if evoking a muse. Producers are as integral to an album’s success as the band is. Electronic equipment has changed music greatly. People’s lives and experiences are expressed in lyrics, melody, rhythm, and performance.
It’s hard to imagine the humble origins of music, yet I am humbled by its impact on my life every day. Recently, I was in a minor surgery operating bay. I commented on how much nicer that experience was compared to a previous surgery. The room was warmer, the atmosphere was more relaxed, and there was soft instrumental music playing in the background. My surgeon asked, “what kind of music do you like?” to which I responded, “to be honest, I’m a grunge girl”. We discussed similar taste in music, forging an unlikely and timeless bond. As the procedure was about to begin, my surgeon changed the music in the room. He chose music we both liked, familiar and calming, and said, “I’m putting on Nirvana – Live From New York”. As the procedure began, so did the next song in the soundtrack of my life.
