College Essay, for real this time

Piano lessons, yet another structured childhood activity suggested by my parents. Were they covering all the bases, or did they have foresight? For their sake, I'll credit them with the latter. For my sake, this was a first introduction to real music, learning without being taught, and discovering a passion for knowledge.

The piano lessons came to an end, but the learning continues. Guitars, banjo, saxophone, bass, harmonica, and playing in a band have become part of my life. Music structure, theory, composition, history, production, and economics all have become part of my learning. Much of the learning has been on my own, but some has presented itself through experiences and acquaintances with others interested in music. I have found that when their specific musical interests differ from mine, rather than shut them out, I've learned from them. When my friend Mark asked me to compose with him, I was reluctant, due to my distaste of country music. He insisted on teaching me about bluegrass and old-time string bands. This smashed the mental barrier I had placed between country-style music and myself. Artists like Old and in the Way, Bill Monroe, and Earl Scruggs began to interest me, and Mark and I discovered a bridge between our two styles. This bridge came through artists that bridge the gap between bluegrass and modern music, such as Bela Fleck. I have assimilated the new knowledge into my ever changing understanding of music.

This has brought me to a new self understanding. I realize that I can focus intense concentration on, and put tremendous energy into, acquiring knowledge about a subject while retaining an open mind to the viewpoints of others. My friendship with Sam exemplifies this. He was an older student at my high school and now is a student at the Berklee College of music. He too has a great passion for music, but his focus was originally on much different genres than my own. Surprisingly this did not present an obstacle, as our exchange of information and insight into one another s interpretations has led to an enhanced understanding of music. I've incorporated this into my interactions with others, expanding my understanding.

I ve discovered that nothing stands on its own. My pursuit of musical knowledge has led me to the investigation of many things associated with it. Economics, history, social influence (all of these things and more) are affected by, and have effect on, music.

Although music is not my only interest, it has provided insight into my passionate intellectual curiosity. I know that this will translate positively in my college experience. Also, it has taught me that I get great pleasure from sharing interests and knowledge with others. This will hopefully make me an asset to my university, fellow students, and chosen field of study.

Found Poem

Congested with phlegm and an idea,
Liver-spotted hands,
She snapped the match out
The world is made of money

Bust the boys: strong arm, blackmail,
A tempest of feeling
Playing against the rules with
A metal gut like a spider

The plain unvarnished truth prevails
Right and wrong become disregarded
Another night ends,
She walks away on stubby little legs