ARJUN PEREIRA says that singing or playing an instrument takes you a step closer to divinity
At some point of time in life all of us have marvelled at a virtuoso musician or singer and dreamt of picking up his or her art. That’s because being an artist is at the apex of being a higher spiritual being. Sound was one of the primordial vibrations in the creation of this universe, long before language was invented, long before writing and more modern forms of communication were discovered.
Surely, you’ve heard of the phrase, ‘soulful rendition’ of a song or an instrument being used for singers and musicians? Indeed, when you listen to these creative wizards sing or play, the power of their music makes your heart soar with joy and your soul is uplifted to peaks of bliss.
When a singer or musician plays or sings, they are able to convey a great idea, whether it is the telling of a story or inspiring their listener to take action or contemplate on some aspect of their own lives. Often, the amplified emotions of daily occurrences get their due in memorable works of art.
People die, their bodies perish, they are buried and cremated, but the ultimate beauty of the human experience is that their ideas and thoughts live on. We still recall with utmost joy the words of a great writer like Shakespeare, and the works of eminent scientists and inventors who forever changed the world.
In like manner, the voices and songs of legendary singers like Freddie Mercury, Jim Reeves, Mohd Rafi and Lata Mangeshkar, merge with our consciousness. These legends are immortalised through their work, and even centuries later, their voices will live on.
Earlier, only the written word could survive as there were no devices to record songs and save them for posterity. Now, technology has left us with great legacies of music and voices.
But it doesn’t mean that only those who achieve fame can sing or play a musical instrument. Then, why is it that so many of us end up quitting midway our attempts at learning a musical instrument or singing? Is it that the instrument is too tough to play and we harbour the illusion that we would somehow master the instrument with ease? Or is it more to do with the mental toughness, resilience and persistence that we must develop in order to master any instrument or learn how to sing in tune?
Music is not just about natural talent, but also persistence that could involve years of practice and dedication.
The other self-limiting belief that we all have when it comes to singing or playing a musical instrument is comparing ourselves to some of the world’s best musicians and singers. Don’t fall into that trap. A wise man once said about playing a musical instrument, “You don’t have to be good to play the guitar, but you ought to just love your instrument and it will love you back.”
Then again, the other excuse that instrument learners eventually manufacture is that, “Perhaps, we are just listeners and are not meant to be players.” That is akin to saying that it is better to be a spectator in life rather than an active participant in it.
Let me conclude by saying that you should steer clear of such thoughts if you are keen on being a musician or singer. You need not be a professional, but believe me, music is a very satisfying hobby that is good for your soul and takes you a step closer to divinity.
On the practical level, music will revitalise your spirit and make your life so very interesting. So, just roll over the bumps and begin on this immensely creative pursuit. It won’t be long before you master all the notes, scales, and chords, singing or playing so joyfully.
Arjun Pereira, a writer and editor, is also a singer, composer, lyricist and guitarist. He loves the outdoors and is often seen enjoying a vigorous game of tennis both mornings and evenings. He has worked for several leading publishing houses and corporates and loves to travel, soaking in new experiences and cultures.
Featured Image: The legendary duo of Lata Mangeshkar and Mohd Rafi