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"Expressing the inexpressible..."
In the orchestra classroom we often look to philosophy for inspiration. I am a huge fan of quotes and often use them to start class and get dialogue going. Here is an amazing book to pick up if you are interested in learning more.
"An Encyclopedia of Quotations About Music" by Nat Shapiro is a great resource that we often refer to. This quote by the famous jazz musician, Charlie Parker, is one of our favorites:
"Music is your own experience, your thoughts, your wisdom. If you don't live it, it won't come out of your horn."
-Charlie Parker (1920-55)
Hanna, a QRS 5th Grader, interprets this quote:
"This quote makes me think that you can make anything 'your own experience, your thoughts, your wisdom.' Charlie Parker thought that music is your own experience, your own thoughts, your own wisdom. I agree with Charlie, yet I also think that anything you put your mind to is your experience, your thoughts, your wisdom."
"Music is the art of sounds in the movement of time."
- Ferruccio Busoni
"Music is the electrical soil in which the spirit lives, thinks, and invents."
-Ludwig van Beethoven
I often urge my students to delve into their innermost feelings in music class. Discussion is an essential part of this bonding experience, and I am open to all opinions and questions. Join the conversation!
"Music's Spell" edited by Emily Fragos is a collection of poems about music and musicians. This book is a beautiful compilation of inspiring poems that celebrate the universal language of music.
