By Ande Jacobson
I was recently reminded of what is truly important by two very talented young people. The first was my friend and mentee (although he’s so far past me at this point, I’d really consider him the mentor now) who joined his first national tour as the assistant music director and keyboard 2 player for a popular musical that’s again making the rounds. I’ve written about this young fellow before, now having just finished his first year of college, and his accomplishments continue to excite and thrill all who know him. His passion, skill, and dedication are an inspiration in so many ways.
The second young man is a rising senior at my former high school, Capuchino High School, who is also a talented and dedicated musician. He recently reached out to me to find out more about what it was like during Cap’s heyday under my first band director, Ralph Bredenberg (affectionately known as Mr. B). Under his leadership, our band was extremely well-known and participated in some big events including President Kennedy’s inauguration in 1961 and the Portland Rose Festival in 1975. I was fortunate to have been in school at the end of that era and marched in Portland. Between state legislation that caused some significant budget cuts, world events, and other intangibles, the band had shrunk and almost completely disappeared sometime after that era. It has taken decades, but the band has been growing again. It’s not back to where it was in its heyday quite yet, but it may get there again someday soon given the enthusiasm of the band members, its director, and the community support it receives.
Seeing these two young people making important strides with such hope and energy reminds me of what is really important. They and their cohort have their whole lives ahead of them; whereas, I’m well past my prime, retired, and no longer striving the same way. With all that bombards us, it’s too easy to get consumed by the reality show screaming across the news cycles given the existential threats to us all. Yet, these young people are living. They are learning. They are making music. They are making the world a better place through the arts that should touch us all but too often don’t. Despite the flow of outrage that’s hard to avoid, there is hope for a future that includes the things that give us joy in living and make us smile.
Yes, we have to keep speaking out for what we believe in, but more importantly, we have to come together and see one another as people. Too many are being manipulated by crises that don’t have to be that way. While we should continue to ensure we are informed and that we work together for a better future for us all, we also have to take some time to enjoy and help those just starting out.
It’s far too easy to miss the good things that are still all around us. Balance is important. Seeing these young people growing, learning, and making a positive difference is invigorating. It brings back fond memories of my own young adulthood. There are so many firsts that come along, and it’s important to ensure that those following us can experience and enjoy their own firsts.
It’s also too easy to become cynical given the depth of the crises we face, but wallowing in despair 24/7 won’t change them and won’t help make life better for those coming behind us. We have to take time to listen to the music, or even better, to help make some of that music along the way.
A Good Reed Review 