What is music but vibration transmitted through substance? And perhaps the primary substance is air and its conveyance by breath. Physically, breath is the first and last act we perform as humans. And, as you note, in between those bookends, it can be a powerful expression of emotion, connection, and spirituality. It’s not surprising to find breathing at the center of a range of practices, from ancient meditation-based traditions to emerging techniques of modern psychology.
Two anecdotes come to mind.
My mom’s husband, who is also one of my (and many others’) great teachers, shuns modern therapy as well as spiritual practices. Yet, he is also a lifelong saxophone player (along with other wind instruments). I am convinced that his daily practice with this form of breathing has invaluably supported him in navigating the challenges of being human through his 98 years. I don’t believe he would have made it anywhere near this far without those horns and the community that exists around them.
As a kid, Simon and Garfunkel’s The Boxer spoke to me, with an arching emotion that vibrated into the depths my bones. Yet, I couldn’t reconcile the lyrics with my personal experiences. Why did I hold this intensely resonant connection? Just a few days ago, my partner spoke of my “jumping back into the arena of life, the boxing ring.” And it was in this moment I understood the transcendent message about which The Boxer speaks… “And he carries the reminders / Of every glove that laid him down”. None of us makes it through this life without wounds and scars. Yet we must find ways to carry on… sometimes running, sometimes hiding, sometimes fighting. “‘I am leaving, I am leaving’ / But the fighter still remains”
Love this response, Eric. Your example of the lyrics and how they spoke to you is a reminder that even some songs that don't seem like they should resonate actually affect us deeply. Your mention about breath and how this can ground us, along with your mother's husband's musicianship is powerful. I think it was Debussy and then later, Miles Davis, who described the "pause between the notes" as essential to music. Thanks again for sharing your thoughts.
You're welcome... ah, Miles Davis and Debussy... I believe you are correct. Both created beloved work that also speaks deeply to me... and many others.
I can identify with the section about how music allows us to connect with the past. When l am creating music that is authentic, and when l am able to enter into the flow processes of the music, the flow stage allows me to bring the past, present, and future together differentiated ways which allows the music to sustain from my heart towards diverse hearts who are willing to listen, and embrace the music 🎶.
Now I most definitely need to go see the film. Music is absolutely essential for my well-being!
What is music but vibration transmitted through substance? And perhaps the primary substance is air and its conveyance by breath. Physically, breath is the first and last act we perform as humans. And, as you note, in between those bookends, it can be a powerful expression of emotion, connection, and spirituality. It’s not surprising to find breathing at the center of a range of practices, from ancient meditation-based traditions to emerging techniques of modern psychology.
Two anecdotes come to mind.
My mom’s husband, who is also one of my (and many others’) great teachers, shuns modern therapy as well as spiritual practices. Yet, he is also a lifelong saxophone player (along with other wind instruments). I am convinced that his daily practice with this form of breathing has invaluably supported him in navigating the challenges of being human through his 98 years. I don’t believe he would have made it anywhere near this far without those horns and the community that exists around them.
As a kid, Simon and Garfunkel’s The Boxer spoke to me, with an arching emotion that vibrated into the depths my bones. Yet, I couldn’t reconcile the lyrics with my personal experiences. Why did I hold this intensely resonant connection? Just a few days ago, my partner spoke of my “jumping back into the arena of life, the boxing ring.” And it was in this moment I understood the transcendent message about which The Boxer speaks… “And he carries the reminders / Of every glove that laid him down”. None of us makes it through this life without wounds and scars. Yet we must find ways to carry on… sometimes running, sometimes hiding, sometimes fighting. “‘I am leaving, I am leaving’ / But the fighter still remains”
Love this response, Eric. Your example of the lyrics and how they spoke to you is a reminder that even some songs that don't seem like they should resonate actually affect us deeply. Your mention about breath and how this can ground us, along with your mother's husband's musicianship is powerful. I think it was Debussy and then later, Miles Davis, who described the "pause between the notes" as essential to music. Thanks again for sharing your thoughts.
You're welcome... ah, Miles Davis and Debussy... I believe you are correct. Both created beloved work that also speaks deeply to me... and many others.
I believe that authentic music can cultivate ia thankful spirit, heart, and countance.
I can identify with the section about how music allows us to connect with the past. When l am creating music that is authentic, and when l am able to enter into the flow processes of the music, the flow stage allows me to bring the past, present, and future together differentiated ways which allows the music to sustain from my heart towards diverse hearts who are willing to listen, and embrace the music 🎶.
Thanks so much for sharing what music means to you and the connection of past to present!