I Believe in Music!

I believe in music because it speaks to my soul. Growing up in South America, I was surrounded by vibrant sounds of reggae, calypso and steel band music.  The words of each song were meaningful and the rhythm was intoxicating. Today, I am drawn to particular songs that move me to tears and touch me deeply. The vibration within me is felt as words of a song fill my ear and overflows my lungs. I am transfixed in time as I listen with my mind, heart and ears and feel my soul shift into a positive dimension.  Music is said to have healing powers that cross countries and touch all people regardless of race, gender or ethnicity.  People all around the world can feel the vibrations of music, each experiencing it in a different way. 

I believe in music because it serves as bonding time for me and my son, Azaan.  When he was a baby, I sang to him and today at 3 years old he still enjoys my singing.  I make up songs that include love, beauty and his name at times. He bobs his head to the rhythm as we walk down the street singing or when he takes a bath.  Driving in the car he likes to listen to his ABC song and politely asks, “Mom, can I hear my CD please?”  Unlike his friends who watch TV in their cars, he enjoys the vibrations of music as we cruise along the freeway or the streets of LA.

I believe in music because it connects me to others, especially my students.  Regardless of their age, I can usually find a common ground with a student who walks into my office and asks what I am listening to. Some days it’s opera, another day it’s NY house music, another day it’s rock and roll, gospel or R & B. In some instances, music allows a student to relax and share their personal struggles with me. 

I believe in music because it inspires me and can shift my mood to a positive vibration.  My challenge to you is to find a song that inspires you and lifts you to a higher plane. The minute you hear a song and feel this elevation within, you will know it, so please enjoy the moment.

By Kim Tabari, President-Elect