Music

I've spent a lot of time studying over the past week. For me, listening to music while I read, do a problem set, or memorize terms helps me focus, but more importantly, it keeps me happy. Music has the unique ability to grab onto your mood and turn it completely around.

Making music is also a vital part of my life. When playing the flute, I can leave behind my individual mental and physical condition for the music in front of me. One of the conductors I worked with in high school always said "music sounds how feelings feel." Sometimes you can't find the right words to describe a situation, but music has the power to evoke powerful emotional responses. And as elegantly stated by Victor Hugo, "Music expresses that which cannot be said and on which it is impossible to be silent."

So here are some songs that are especially meaningful to me:
-An American Elegy: Piece for wind ensemble written by Frank Ticheli to honor those who lost their lives at Columbine High School. Both playing and just listening to this piece make my heart hurt. Such great composing. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YIIKdBYfmlo
-Kathleen: Song by Josh Ritter. One of my favorites...can't help but smile listening to it. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bm3lWq4s5-U
-I'll Fly Away: As sung by Alison Krauss and Gillian Welch in "O Brother, Where Art Thou?" The lyrics of this song are powerful, and I love this arrangement. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sdRdqp4N3Jw
-I and Love and You: One of my favorites by the Avett Brothers. Just so wonderful. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qqZZlL0l5Uk

That's just a sampling of music I love. Find what inspires you and you may find writing that paper isn't so bad after all. Happy Friday!