The Performers' Entrance

On the way to the symphony this afternoon, I passed the performers’ entrance. I thought about all the conditions necessary for a person to walk through that door. 

Be born into an environment in which it’s possible to hear art music. Know someone who plays an instrument, be exposed to various instruments, develop an attraction to a particular instrument. Love the sound. Overcome blistered fingers, sore lips, tense shoulders. Learn to read music, to hear patterns, to develop body memory. Study music theory. Persist. Develop friendships with other musicians. Listen to other students. Listen to great musicians. Deal with embarrassment, teasing, bullying, perceived failure. Develop drive, pursue excellence, miss out on other arts or sports because there’s only so much time in life. Attend rehearsals. Attend auditions. Fail some and keep going. Compete. Acquire further education, perhaps change instruments. Want to give up. Decide not to give up. Develop confidence.
 
Have unflagging adult support. An adult must locate an instrument, interview teachers and choose a good one whose methods are appropriate to the child musician’s needs. Pay for the instrument and the lessons, convey the child to lessons, encourage, console, monitor (not too strict, not too slack), listen to practice sessions, praise, take an interest but don’t be pushy. Buy better instruments as the child grows and improves, pay for further education, attend countless recitals and performances and give feedback that strengthens and inspires without generating pressure.

Finally the aspiring symphony member must make it through a gauntlet of applications and auditions and be offered a job. Be paid to play music. Be paid enough that if they give a few lessons or play in an ensemble on the side, they might be able to pay the rent. Walk through the performers' door.