2015 was a great year for me and my music! My Corona music studio is thriving; this year has brought me new students in piano, voice, flute, AND music theory. I released an EP and an album this year and have been working on a lot of arrangements and new compositions. I’ve grown in my abilities as a musician, performer, and teacher, and I’m looking forward to growing even more in 2016.
The start of a new year usually leads to reflecting on the past year and setting goals for the new year. Many people set New Year’s Resolutions about going to the gym, earning more money, or watching less TV, but then they give up on these “goals” after a month or two. I’d like to suggest a different goal for 2016: developing your musical talents. If you’re reading this, you probably have some musical ability or at least an interest in music. Why not do something to develop that? Music is something that can bring you joy and fulfillment, and it will enrich your life.
Studying music could be a hobby that you enjoy doing for fun or relaxation, or it could be something you want to make into a future career. It could be your way of relaxing and relieving stress, or it could be something that you and your family enjoy listening to together. Whatever it is for you, making music a priority this year will enhance your life. Go back to playing the piano that you wish you’d never quit. Pick up the guitar that you’ve always wanted to learn. Sign up for music lessons; challenge yourself to learn to play harder music; introduce yourself to a new genre or musician; find a regular time to spend on music each day or each week. Work on composing or arranging or learning to read music and see yourself get better and better at it.
I’m looking forward to what 2016 has in store, but I’m not just going to wait for it to happen on its own. I have goals and plans for my music and my music business, and I am going to make them happen. I encourage you to do the same! You will enjoy the fruits of your labors as you develop your musicianship, and you will also experience the beauty of creating something unique. Music is and always will be a creative art, something that enriches the life of the composer, arranger, performer, and listener. This year in 2016, make the choice to let music change your life for the better.
