It speaks to us in every season of our lives. It comforts us, makes us laugh, makes us cry and it is the language that everyone can understand all in one moment—music.
Since the beginning of time, this amazing language has been used to influence and express how we live our lives and how we view the world. In our world today, there are so many things trying to grab our attention such as, cellphones, computers, people, and our jobs. However, the language of music always grabs our attention in the best way possible without us even realizing it sometimes!
Here are three genres that have shaped me and spoken to me as a musician:
Jazz 
I have been playing alto saxophone since I was in fifth grade (don't be too impressed, I have a lot of practicing still to do) but ever since I picked up that instrument, I love the jazzy sound you can produce out of that horn and at the same time play beautiful melodies in a wind ensemble. I love the versatility with this instrument, and whenever I listen to jazz when the alto or tenor sax solo comes in, it is like the instrument is talking to you; demanding your attention to listen as it speaks intricate melody lines to you. When I lsiten or play jazz it puts me in an emotion of relaxation but also in a state where I sink deep into the wonder of the notes. The amazing thing about jazz is that as an audience member you are a privileged because you will never hear the same music ever again. Jazz is very improv heavy, and so the solo's these instrumentalists play will never be heard again, what an amazing feeling!
Classical
While I love jazz, there is nothing like amazing composers such as Bach, Mendelssohn and Brahms and Vivaldi. I love this music because the melody lines are so beautiful and so organized at the same time. These composers did not have fancy equipment like we have today to write down music or to record it, they had to write it out
by hand. The fact that we are still producing this music today is amazing. As an instrumentalist there are not many things more exciting than mastering these complex rhythms that these amazing composers produced. The next time you are studying or trying to sleep put on some classical music, you will be blessed. I also love classical music because there is much variety within the genre. 
Gospel
For those of you that know me well, say this is obvious, but I love gospel music! I love the simple power that comes from gospel music. So many times the lyrics are more simple lyrics but the power that comes from the choruses is something that I love to hear. I also love the musicianship that comes from playing gospel music. The piano is a driving force in setting up the tone, the drums drive the energy and the bass keeps everyone grounded. I especially old time churchy gospel music, with the gospel organ, tambourines , stomping and clapping, there is so much power! So much of gospel originated from negro spiritual's and it is amazing that we are all able to celebrate this time of history with the slaves trust in God. Gospel helps us be energized in our worship and at the same time calls us to stand in solidarity with those before us.
I love music and I love to learn music! I have a long way to go in my music endeavors, but there is something amazing with how music can speak to all of us in different seasons of our lives. I would challenge you all to tell me what your favorite music genres are!
