My recent interaction with the president of a local small and rural private university served as an unexpected catalyst for introspection. Amidst a situation that compelled me to question the ethical practices within that educational institution and their integrity in addressing such issues, the president’s advice to “Think about yourself and your kids” was, in my eyes, a veiled suggestion to mind my own business. Got it. However, this encounter sparked more than just a momentary reflection; it ignited a profound contemplation on the essence of being “out of the ordinary” (the motto of that University) versus truly “extraordinary,” a distinction that resonates deeply within my personal ethos and professional endeavors in music education.
The Spark of Reflection:
The remarks from the university’s president came at a crucial juncture in my life, where my roles as an educator and a parent have been deeply intertwined with my aspiration to embody and instill extraordinariness in myself and others. The university’s motto, “Out of the Ordinary,” inadvertently prompted me to reflect on my own life’s philosophy.
Extraordinary vs. Out of the Ordinary:
Navigating from being merely “out of the ordinary” to embracing a truly “extraordinary” existence involves understanding the subtle yet profound differences between the two. The former often denotes deviation without direction, whereas the latter represents a qualitative leap towards excellence, embodying ethical virtues and a commitment to personal growth. In my journey, extraordinariness has been a guiding principle, shaping my decisions, my failures, and my successes.
Music as a Medium of Transformation:
Music, with its boundless capacity for transformation, has been a pivotal medium through which I’ve sought to teach and embody these principles. As an educator and trainer, I’ve witnessed music’s power to evoke emotion, inspire change, and transcend barriers. My approach to teaching music has always been about more than imparting technical skills; it’s about fostering creativity, ethical integrity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. I’ve encouraged my students to see beyond the notes and rhythms, to explore the depths of their creativity, and to understand that being extraordinary involves uplifting oneself and others through dedication to their craft.
Raising Extraordinary Individuals:
The advice to “Think about yourself and your kids” has, in an ironic twist, reinforced my commitment to this extraordinary path. From the moment I had that exchange a few months ago to today, I raised my bar even higher. There is no limit in how extraordinary one can become. I do consider myself extraordinary, and I’ve raised my children to be the same. This belief isn’t born from a sense of superiority but from a deep-seated conviction in the values we embody and the lives we aspire to lead. Every student that enters my studio is viewed not just as a learner but as an individual with the potential to make a meaningful impact in this world. Nurturing this potential into extraordinariness requires patience, belief, and a commitment to guiding them towards their highest selves.
Conclusion:
The journey towards extraordinariness is deeply personal and infinitely rewarding. It is defined not by external accolades but by the richness of internal growth and the alignment with one’s deepest values and passions. As I reflect on my path as both an educator and a parent, I am inspired by the potential to foster environments where extraordinariness is not just an aspiration but a lived reality. This personal exploration has solidified my belief in the transformative power of music, not merely as a conduit for developing technical skills but as a profound pathway to cultivating the ethical, emotional, and intellectual dimensions of being truly extraordinary.