Learning is a beautiful enigma, especially in the musician's mind. A beautiful enigma Kind of seems like an oxymoron almost, doesn’t it? No matter our roots of music education, we all have a purpose, and that purpose is to serve the music. Not only to serve the music, but to foster a relationship with the audience, composer, and our own individual artistry. Improving my craft as a conductor, teacher, (fake) pianist (I sure do know how to fake my way through!), and as a human being takes initiative, drive, and willingness to be vulnerable.
After graduating from my undergraduate studies, I personally found it easy to ask for help from colleagues, peers, and former professors to smoothen my transition into the real world. That did not stick forever. I came from a choral “hogwarts”- Westminster Choir College. The epicenter of choral music. It was one of the most enriching experiences of my career- Why? Well, it’s a twofold answer: Because like many college music majors, it was clear that my growth as an artist was happening. But also, the thought of not pursuing music after high school was not a viable option. It was empowering to rewatch my teaching footage evolving as I was student teaching. To then see myself excel in my first few years of teaching was incredible.
It’s the place where I fell in love with early music. I mean, c’mon! Who doesn’t love singing a five or six part Schutz motet? There is just nothing more sublime! Okay, well there are other composers too that deserve a highlighted moment like Schutz, I know….
After my fifth year of teaching, I knew it was time for a change. I had a thirst for knowledge that I was not getting with my teaching. Unfortunately, I started to forget certain elements of music history. I was scared to admit this to my colleagues. I noticed my theory skills were shaky, even though I was teaching basic concepts to my former middle schoolers. Improving my musicianship was paramount for me to move forward in my career, especially with the hopes and aspirations to become a Director of Choral Activities. Furthering my education
was a necessary step to take in order to achieve my ultimate pursuit, but to also alleviate my burnout. This life change formulated my own opinion on learning.
Y’all, learning is an insane thing- Yes, some of our learning stems from the experts in our field: private teachers, instructors, professors and lecturers. But, I argue that the most effective learning happens with the people in your direct cohort/ studio; Your friends and colleagues. The implementation of new ideas with rehearsal technique, voice pedagogy, and theory is a make or breaking point! Recently, I asked my close friend/roommate a German diction question- She is finishing her Master’s in Vocal Performance, and I couldn’t remember the shaping of a mixed vowel. She is currently learning a lot of Strauss repertoire, and I knew she was the perfect person to ask. With conducting, there’s something so visceral about seeing your friends lead a rehearsal, and you walk away from that rehearsal inspired, to then implement a similar idea that they did! It’s also important to be vulnerable, and to just let those dang walls come down in the process of learning. Ask. For. Help.
Last week, a friend of mine texted me asking for help on his choral composition he’s finishing for a group, and how the SSAA version of the piece will affect the overall mood of a piece. It hit me at that moment- How cool is it to be in our late 20s, planting our roots in the realm of choral music, and supporting each other? These are the people that we will forever maintain a relationship with. Why not empower each other to serve the music in a radiant light?
I find that sometimes, people truly are afraid to ask for help. I am not sure if it has to do with pride, or the fear of judgment. Who cares? You are responsible for your own craft- Take every advantage you can to improve, but to also be willing to embrace vulnerability.
This year, I am finishing up my master’s degree in Choral Conducting at the University of Miami Frost school of Music. I am filling in the holes of knowledge I once had, and constantly be unapologetically honest when asking for assistance.
So what am I trying to say here? You do not know everything, and never will. However, that’s the beauty in learning and knowledge… is it not? Take the time to ask for help, go observe
your friends lead a rehearsal, go observe your friend's voice lesson, sit in on practice sessions. Go be an icon in the world that we live in. But also, go sing a Schutz motet- His constant change in harmonic structure will just make your soul feel at ease. Trust me.
Talk soon, musicians. Be mindful, be demure (kind of), and don’t be afraid to ask for help. You’ll thank yourself later.
- Gabriel Harley, 2nd year MM in Choral Conducting at the University of Miami Frost School of Music.
*Opinions expressed on The CCCC Blog are reflections of the individual author, and may not represent all members of The CCCC Community.
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