Inspiration, Perspiration

This past week, I was lucky enough to attend a conference at the UW called the Big Learning Event.  Basically a TED conference without the name, it featured six speakers who are all pioneers in their respective fields, from astronomy to rural community art projects.  While each speaker had incredibly interesting insights into not only the big issues of their own realms but large societal problems (public education, climate change), the one I found particularly relevant was a neuroscientist who has devoted his career to researching contemplative practices.  He and his team study the effects of meditation on the brain and on overall well-being.  His research on various masters of contemplative traditions (including the Dalai Lama) has led to concrete scientific data that we can teach ourselves compassion, focus, and happiness.  While this is nothing new or counter-intuitive, it was fascinating to see scientific and real-life evidence of people's amazing capacity to learn and improve themselves.

And of course, I find this particularly apt for my own daily horn practice.  Practicing an instrument is a form of meditation in itself, though of course without the ethical framework that gives meditation its spiritual connotations.  But I already devote hours every day to improving my focus, patience, and understanding of complex problems, a luxury I am grateful to be able to enjoy.  And hearing this scientist expound on the societal benefits of this personal contemplation practice, I was re-invigorated by the notion that hey, maybe I am making the world a better place by playing long tones every day.

I also feel a strong commitment to trying "actual" meditation as well.  I've never found it easy to sit in silence and not think about anything (or not think about myself), but maybe that's because I never practice.  Which, considering that I firmly believe in the value of a strong work ethic, is pretty unfair to the whole meditation camp.  So, try I shall.  I'm going to try to spend 20 minutes every day meditating outside of the practice room, within a more altruistic, ethical realm.  I always say I want to be more compassionate, less judgmental, less moody, and more giving, so maybe I need to actually work at that.  Every day, for a set amount of time, with a firm intrinsic commitment.  I have a feeling that becoming a better person will make me a better musician too, so everybody wins!

Oh, in other less-lofty news, I won my first audition!  Small regional orchestra, not the most strenuous audition circumstances, but I was the last one standing at the end of the day.  And that feels good.  Here's hoping I can build on this momentum.