the joy of artistry

Joy is the core of all artistry.  While we musicians do, and must, experience a sense of pleasure while making music, that feeling derives from expressing our understanding of the composer’s intent through an interpretation that will delight the audience.  Always begin your preparation of a new piece (or reworking of an old one) with questions like: “What is the composer’s intent,” and “How can I express that intent so that the audience will be moved”?  Spend time researching the composer and the work.  Do your diligence in uncovering the historical context of the music.  With a contextual understanding of the music, you are prepared to ask the questions about how to express each phrase so that an audience will be moved and thoroughly engaged.  Follow these steps, and everyone (audience and performer alike) will experience the joy of artistry.