I have taught some very fine, committed music students over the years, fifty years as of next year for me. Teenagers today are involved in so many activities; it makes my head spin. I’m glad I do not have to keep the schedules most parents have to know where their children are at any given moment. That point came full circle for me as I tried to get three students in one place at the same time to practice, “Believe” from “The Polar Express.” My anxiety was not necessary because these three fine eighth graders performed together as one unit beyond my expectations, and even more wonderful, they loved performing as a part of the church service to the glory of God.
During this early service, I remembered something that Albert Einstein said to Julius Robert Oppenheimer as Robert was contemplating accepting General Grove’s request to become the head of the Manhattan Project for the development of the atomic bomb between 1942 and 1945 at Los Alamos, New Mexico. “The important thing about music is not that you can read music but that you can hear the music.” In other words, any one can read black and white notes; only a few can hear those notes before they come out of their instruments. Oppenheimer could see what he needed to use the theories, but it was quite another thing to realize the consequences of those things. As it was for Oppenheimer, so it was for my students this morning. They performed above what was written; they made it a beautiful message to the world. We all believe in something, but it is those who believe in something larger than themselves, God, who are given the gift of an Eternal home.
Claire had two performances; both were exemplary. She is developing into a very fine musician, who understands everything about how music comes about and can place meaning into her playing. When she played, “Joy to the World” by David Lanz, she literally brought tears and the largest smile I have ever had on my face. Today’s Advent candle, Joy, was made bold by her musicianship. I think even God was pleased.
Jericho has grown so much in his musicianship, just in the last six months. His ear while playing the viola is growing closer towards a beautifully precise relative pitch. His improvisations and understanding of chords has greatly influenced his guitar abilities. Jericho’s very gentlemanly character shows through when he knows to offer help to tear down a stage of its equipment; he does not have to be asked to do it. Joy is a part of who he is as a genuine human being.
Grady has also grown in his knowledge of where he fits in a small quartet as a drummer. He desires to be better with every lesson we have together. Today’s performance proves that when given a chance, students will rise triumphantly to the occasion. He held to the central beat and gradually added volume when the quartet needed dynamics. As a Christian young man, Grady puts joy into everything he does.
When I took Communion this morning, I thanked the Lord for giving me students whose core values support the idea that music brings peace to the world. What better way to share your talents than to poor your heart and soul into the musical talents God gave you. It is my prayer this Christmas that all of the world’s children will be blessed by the hope, love, joy, and peace that the Christ child brings to this blessed season. In their heart-of-hearts, I pray that music will be a part of their lives just as it is for Claire, Jericho, and Grady.
Ann Hartt
