There's an old saying that I think about a lot in my teaching and music making. I didn't come up with it, and I'm not sure who did, but it goes:
We teach best what we most need to learn.
It's simple and straightforward, and consequently can be applied in many ways.
As a teacher, I get to work with people all the time on music. Singing high notes, phrasing, musicality and expression. It goes without saying that all of this feeds into my own notions on how to make music. I am frequently amazed at the innovative ways that my clients look at singing and the ways that they express themselves. It's delightful, and reminds me to keep an open mind when they make choices that I initially think won't work.
As someone who makes videos for YouTube, I frequently get asked questions that look at problems in different ways. Each time I get to answer someone, I get a slightly different perspective on the singing voice, and learn a bit more about how to help singers get to where they're going vocally, but also how to move forward with my own artistry.
This leads to an idea that I have mentioned for many years, specifically:
Teaching is an integral part of artistry.
I don't think I really got it, though, until quite recently. You see, I have been fortunate enough to study with some truly great musicians, all of whom were passionate teachers. I always knew that there must be a connection, so I paid it lip service for a long time. Recently, however, I find myself feeling a renewed sense of inspiration in music that I attribute to the innovation I see in my clients. Their passion and novel ways of approaching their voices is inspiring and leads me to think about music and music making differently.
All of this brings me to one final point which is:
Thank you!
Without all of you I couldn't do what I do, and I am very grateful for all that you do! Being part of my courses, or the RVC, or posting your questions on YouTube; all of these acts help me to help other vocalists, all of which turns around and informs me in the music that I make. In this season of gratitude I want to offer my heartfelt thanks for the opportunity to serve the singing community, and look forward to much more music making and teaching in the years to come!
Thank you!
Jeff
