Doctors take an oath. The importance of their job is obvious, and they pledge to themselves and to their patients that they will always uphold the value of human life. I try to remember when I'm having a hard time, that what I do is not brain surgery. Ultimately, on my worst day, I'm still making music. My mistakes do not result in loss of life. However, I absolutely believe in the power of music to uphold, and to heal, and to sustain the good in this world. And it is on days like today, when an incredible representation of human strength and ability is disrupted by evil, that my role as a musician becomes most clear.
I believe that we as musicians should also take an oath.
I pledge to create, whether through the composition of new material or the interpretation of existing works.
To be honest in my communication, and to strive to represent myself in all of my musical endeavors.
To credit those who have influenced me and those who have taught me.
To pass on my knowledge of music to those who desire to learn.
To provide music for those who need it in times of trouble. To represent beauty in ugliness, and hope in hopelessness. To play through the hardest times I can bear, so that the difficulties and horrors of the universe cannot threaten the power of music. To step forward in tragedy and use my abilities to ease the suffering of others.
To remember that music also serves to elevate joy. To play in celebration of a life that allows me to be a musician. To contribute to existing happiness and to strive to create more.
To play music that honors my past and represents those who came before.
To live my life through music in such a way as to contribute to a more peaceful future.
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