Summer Recitals
These days, it is easy to sometimes become lonely. Kids who do not play with others regularly may not actually have many music friends. Deliberately connecting with others is an effective way to interrupt feelings of isolation. A few ideas about how to do that are explained here.
One way to reach out is to decide to become a good listener. For instance, giving your full attention to someone while they are speaking, creates feelings of mutual acceptance. In a musical setting, paying attention to the other performers creates feelings of inclusion. Sharing these types of experiences with others is one way to start friendships.
Being available to listen usually means suspending talking. It also means suspending access to the cell phone’s information flow when in another’s company or until a concert is finished. This may seem old fashioned, but why not try it and notice what happens?
Another way to connect is to focus on small increments of time, observing one’s senses and feeling what’s right here. Fill out the setting by attending to details. A sense of ease can emerge when the mind is slowed down and one becomes aware of what is most immediate. When at ease, it is easier to reach out to another person.
Being in the present happens naturally while listening to music. A live performance offers this kind of experience especially well. While listening to others or playing with or for a group, we experience sound though phrases. The pattern of music’s beginning, middle, and end, provides a predictable sense of calm.
A person who smiles, can change feelings of separateness. At a concert, smiling makes others feel welcome. Smiling has been proven to release “feel good” chemicals in the brain. Look around you to notice how faces change as your music peers take their bows. Smiling communicates acceptance and affiliation. Click here to read about the positive results of smiling! https://www.verywellmind.com/top-reasons-to-smile-every-day-2223755
No matter your age, it is kind to offer a warm greeting to the person sitting near you at a concert. Even if you consider yourself to be an introvert, just making eye contact with another student can create feelings of belonging. Small gatherings are also great places for parents to make new friends! You become a person who builds trust in a community as soon as you decide to actively connect with others.
Sign up to play on CYM’s June Recital on the 4th in the North Hills, with Mr. Eric as host. You can also sign up to play on CYM’s July Recital on the 22nd in Verona, with Ms. Maria as host. Register for a performer ticket by talking to your teacher or emailing victoria@craftyourmusic.com. Registration closes July 21st.
Playing music is not only pleasant for the audience, it is healthy for the performers too. You can use your piano, violin, or guitar lessons to help one another overcome or deter feelings of loneliness. Visit https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/loneliness-and-social-isolation-tips-staying-connected#stayingconnected for more suggestions about making healthy networks.
