The Power of Music

We attended my daughter's concert tonight, which combined the middle school chorus with the orchestra. It was pretty much what would expect from such a group, but I was blown away by their focus and the power of the music. These kids are 11-13 years old. Puberty is having its wicked way with them. They are awkward and pimply and in this horrid transition period where they shriek, spaz out, giggle and cry all in about 5 minutes. But put them on Mozart and they are focused, serious and still. You can see the music move through them and it is a beautiful thing. These are the kids that made it. Who practiced, who could afford the instrument and had the parents who were committed and supportive. If you stick with it, you get to play Mozart, with a large group of kids from all over town. You get to become a part of the musical community which stretches around the world. We are extremely privileged to live in a wealthy town with a huge commitment to the arts. These kids are learning skills and gaining access to a joy that will sustain them throughout their lives. We are the lucky ones. I'm wondering what I can do to help kids who are not so lucky. It's vital that young people have something outside of school to anchor and inspire them. To show them what they are capable of. To pull them to higher ground. No real solutions here, just a head full of ideas. And music.