As musicians, our instruments are more than just tools of expression; they are vessels for our unique voices. But unlike spoken language, our artistic voice is one we consciously craft. We choose how and what we communicate through the music we play, from the phrasing in our interpretations to the repertoire we select.
The power of this choice is profound. In every note, we make decisions about how to present ourselves to the world. Our choices reflect who we are, what we value, and the message we want to convey. For some musicians, this means pushing boundaries and embracing new compositions that challenge traditional structures. For others, it may mean dedicating themselves to performing works from underrepresented composers, elevating diverse voices in a field that has historically been narrow in its focus. For another set of voices, it’s both of those!
Your voice as a musician isn’t just about sound; it’s about intention. By creating and engaging in projects, commissioning works, or participating in consortiums like those at New Works Project, you have the opportunity to align your artistic voice with your values.
Each of us has the power to determine how we use our voice. Through collaboration, we create spaces where our individual choices resonate more loudly and impact the broader community.
Once you have found your artistic voice, the next question is: How will you use it? For many musicians, the stage is not just a place of performance; it's a platform for advocacy, education, and change. Music has long been a tool for raising awareness about social, political, and cultural issues, and as performers, we have the power to influence and inform through our art.
Take for example the many artists who use their performances to highlight underrepresented composers, cultural heritage, or contemporary issues. Jessie Montgomery often uses her compositions to engage with themes of social justice and civil rights, while performers like Yo-Yo Ma use their platforms to build cross-cultural understanding through initiatives like the Silk Road Project. These musicians remind us that our voices as artists extend beyond the concert hall.
In your own performances, you can educate your audience by programming music that challenges or broadens their understanding of the world. You can advocate for causes that matter to you, whether through benefit concerts, musical tributes, or simply by choosing to focus your repertoire on music that reflects your values.
By partnering with organizations like New Works Project, you also have the opportunity to contribute to the creation of new music that speaks to the issues and ideas you care about. When you collaborate with composers and other musicians, you help to craft pieces that can inspire, provoke, and educate. Music becomes not only a medium for expression but also a powerful tool for dialogue and action.
As musicians, we have an immense ability to shape the world through our performances. How will you use your voice to make a difference?
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