I started reflecting on musical amateurism while on the radio yesterday because it was the birthday of the Russian composer Mily Balakirev. He and four of his friends are known as the Mighty Handful, a group of nationalistic Russian romantic composers whose innovative composition techniques paved the way for an authentic Russian sound. When they started out, there wasn’t a musical conservatory for them to attend. Instead, they met at each other’s homes and created their own music – lots of it based on folk music. They all had other jobs that occupied their daily lives and needed to make time for their music.
One of the fun parts about working at The Classical Station is the close interaction with all of the musical recordings I play on the air. Each day is another chance to be inspired by centuries of music. Sometimes it is difficult to get motivated, but every day the music pushes me to read more, to listen more attentively, and to try to be a better announcer. I began learning to play the piano a few years ago because, well, I always wanted to! I figured just because I was in my twenties didn’t mean I couldn’t start. Better late than never, right? The music I hear on the station continually pushes me to practice harder and keep up with my lessons.
Thinking about the Mighty Handful inspires me to practice more and to realize that I don’t have to be a professional musician to enjoy playing the piano or listening to the radio. I can compose little pieces, play some short sonatas by Scarlatti or a prelude by Bach, and that is alright. I hope people like Balakirev and his friends continue to inspire you to make music and enjoy life regardless of whether you have a degree in music or not. After all, following your dreams to learn a new instrument or be a Classical music aficionado is pretty cool.
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