I’ve linked to Benjamin Zander’s TED talk before but I’ve never shared his fascinating “Interpretations of Music, Lessons For Life” sessions. Putthing that to right here today.
I’ve been hooked – pun intended – on these for a long time, & for very good reason. Watch this incredible transformation in a young musician’s performance – indeed his whole persona – after Zander introduces some ideas, encourages him to consider them while performing, how to interpret written music & bring it to life, & to focus on the receivers needs rather than his own.
Zander’s personality is infectious: his zest for life, for bringing music to life, & for helping young musicians discover the possibilities when then use their whole selves as the instrument from which great stories are musically told. I love his ability to provide feedback – appreciation, evaluation & coaching – throughout, using anecdotes, his own experience & often demonstrating using the piano.
Be mesmerized.