Music

What is music? Notes on a page, rythm, time signatures, flats, sharps, naturals, voices, instruments. All of those are important to music but none are integral. They don't get to the core of the matter. There is A Capella music which does not include instruments. Likewise there are instrumental songs which have no voices. Keys change as well as time signatures. Some music is only percussion. What is the constant? Where does music come from and why do we keep singing it or playing it?
A man once taught me that music is the manipulation of emotion into song. I was 7 years old at the time and didn't quite understand it. He repeated it to me over the years and eventually it stuck. Whether the good times or the bad times there is music for the occasion. As a dad I have played for my family and for myself and will continue to do so. Taking the emotion I have inside and communicating that to whomever I am with has been a great source of joy for everyone or a source of healing when needed.
As a dad I recommend at least singing to your children. Perhaps your parents sang to you when you were younger. Remember those songs and sing them to your children. Even if you don't sing well and can only croon. Just go for it. They will certainly appreciate it and perhaps that's the spark they need to ignite their musical side. Most of us won't go on to perform for large audiences or concert halls. Playing to my family or singing to a tired baby has been a wonderful way of connecting with my family and something I hope you do as well.

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