A Forest Song

In 2007 I graduated with my bachelor's degree in both studio art (emphasis painting) and CLASSICAL GUITAR PERFORMANCE. That's right. I was a musician--emphasis on was.  Music, just like art, has an incredible, magical way of transporting you to new worlds--slowing time to allow you to soar to new heights. When I started learning to play classical guitar in high school, I knew I had found a new outlet for my imagination. Every time I would pick up the guitar to play, I would close my eyes and FEEL the music. Time stood still as I would drift off into a new world of delightful sounds and beautiful stillness. 

Music, just like art, can be an incredibly personal thing. When an artist creates, no matter the concept or media, they are putting a piece of themselves into their work. The same goes for musicians; when a musician starts to play a piece, they are putting themselves out there---allowing their audience to have a glimpse into their inner workings. As an artist, music seemed to be a natural pairing--another outlet for me to create and explore...that is, until I decided to major in it.

Although this is most certainly not the case for everyone, studying classical guitar in college killed the magic of the instrument for me.  Instead of closing my eyes to get lost in the music, I found myself staring at a clock--trying to get in my 4-6 hours of practice each day in preparation for a monstrous senior recital. The beautiful guitar strings turned into instruments of torture, as I did nerve damage to my fingers from pushing them to play pieces that were above my skill level. 

As soon as I graduated with my degree, I turned my back on classical guitar, and haven't been able to bring myself to play since then. I've heard similar stories from other musicians; many have said, "If you love to play an instrument, don't study it in college." Of course, there have also been many incredible musicians who have emerged from academia unscathed. Those who are truly PASSIONATE about their art will continue to grow no matter the hurdle that stands in their way--and I can honestly say that, although music school pushed me away from classical guitar, it also fueled my passion for my studio art! 

The piece featured in this post, titled "Forest Song," was first created as a study in hair detail, but subconsciously turned into much more. This piece encapsulates the feeling of getting lost in the beauty and magic of music. 

May each of you experience "getting lost" in something--be it music, art, or a good book! 

Happy Labor Day!