"To stop the flow of music would be like the stopping of time itself, incredible and inconceivable." - Aaron Copland
Music is one of my getaways. I enjoy listening to music on the radio or iTunes. I also love to create music. In fifth grade, I began playing the alto saxophone. I was attracted to the instrument not only for its sleek, metallic appearance, but for the vibrant, sassy tones that could be produced. I took private lessons for 9 months to advance my skills. In sixth grade, my band director approached me with a new musical opportunity. He proposed I begin playing the oboe.
With the initial idea, I thought no way! Why waste my time with a different instrument, when I could continue to improve on the sax? Well, the next day in band, my instructor brought me the instrument and played a few rhythms. I was sold. Since that day, my musical enjoyment has grown exponentially. I began taking private lessons on my oboe, was section leader for two years during marching band, first alto in jazz band and a soloist for concerts and contests. I was even selected as a 2010 National FFA Band member.However, after high school graduation, I had lost my touch with music. I became engulfed by the "college atmosphere". My GPA, friends and student organizations took precedence over spending a few hours a day or week playing my instruments. I knew I should start playing again, but I always had some excuse avoiding the idea.
