"Kids today live in a fast food society - they want everything now". "Kids today have no idea what it means to work hard for something". "Kids today are simply spoiled". How often have you heard these comments or even spoken them yourself? Granted, these comments have become popular for good reason - they express a cultural truth. After enjoying the recitals at DSM this past weekend, it became apparent that these comments do not apply to all kids. I must admit, what I witnessed throughout the performances were children displaying qualities that all of us, young and old, should aspire to hone or develop!

Perseverance (to persist in anything undertaken; maintain a purpose inspite of difficulty, obstacles, or discouragement; continue steadfastly)

To prepare any piece of music for a performance requires much perseverance - not for an hour, not for a day, and not for a week. To adequately prepare a piece of music for performance typically requires months! Months of hard work and endurance requiring the student to bear difficulties calmly and with a clear mind. Simply put, perseverance is trying again and again!

Patience (an ability or willingness to suppress restlessness or annoyance when confronted with delay)

Try and try again indeed! Notes, rests, articulations, dynamics, time and feel - so many details to keep track of it's no wonder why learning music will try the patience of the best of us - even Job! Learning a piece of music for performance requires the mastery of one's ability to willingly accept delayed gratification.

Courage (mental strength to withstand danger, fear, or difficulty)

Anyone who has stepped on a stage to speak or perform can attest to the fact that the experience can be quite difficult and fearful. Musicians are required to confront these emotions and keep them in check in order to pull off a successful performance. Mind over matter indeed!

Gratitude (the quality or feeling of being grateful or thankful)

Witnessing the joy (and relief) of each and every student as they completed their performance was exciting and emotional. As a teacher there is nothing more satisfying than seeing students succeed in accomplishing their goals. Most rewarding however is witnessing how genuinely grateful they are to their parents and teachers for helping them and believing in them every step of the way. Learning to be thankful for those in our lives that reach out and help us daily - music lessons certainly do teach more than simply notes!

Yes indeed, after enjoying the recitals, I can say with great confidence that all the kids performing this past weekend displayed great perseverance, patience, courage, and gratitude. Therefore I boldly proclaim - DSM children are counter-cultural kids. Now that's food for thought!