A particular trial for many over-educated musicians is the ubiquity of background music. Studying music for ridiculous lengths of time during their formative years can make some musicians so focused on music that they are incapable of ignoring it; for us, there no longer is any such thing as background music. Any music we hear immediately become our primary focus. This can make conversations in restaurants difficult. . . and maybe I shouldn’t even talk about elevators.
Many over-educated musicians also have music playing in their heads, pretty much constantly. This can be useful; I recently went on a two-day backpacking trip during which I listened to several bands from a recent Celtic music festival, a selections of Lutheran hymns, and several of the works of Josquin de Prez, all without having to carry an mp3 player. It can also give one a vacant (or totally nuts) expression that causes social problems, and, as you might imagine, combining the involuntary focus on music with the mental mp3 player can cause even more social problems.
Hi Alta:
I received your e-mail “Out of the Basement”. I didn’t even realize until today, when going back over some e-mails that I hadn’t had time to really read very well, that I could select “The Consulting Composer” – shows how little I understand about computer and other technology. Your knowledge is so far beyond my understanding when it comes to music, but I thoroughly enjoyed reading all of your comments and the cartoon images. You are certainly very talented and I am so very proud of your accomplishments. I long to someday hear one of your concerts in person. I am praying that a job will open for you that will not only meet your monetary needs but be very fulfilling to you in using the talents and education you have. Much love and best wishes – Grandma Frances
If you receive this (which I hope that I at least was able to submit), what does “Your comment is awaiting moderation” mean? I don’t think my response went through. Please let me know if you get this. I do hope that all of your family is doing well. God bless you all.