As part of my general education studies at Grand Valley State University I am required to take a class that counts as an arts credit. As a science major and math nerd, I can honestly say that I was really dreading taking this class. But after begin enrolled in Music 100 for almost the entire semester, now I can say that it wasn't that bad. In fact, I kind of enjoyed it.

I thought that the class would be super boring, just learning dates of composers lives and listening to the songs, which I thought would all sound pretty much the same. As it turns out, the lives of the composers were super interesting!

A lot of them were rebels for their time period. They created works of music that were about scandalous topics or suggested change. They created new styles that were incredibly controversial. Some were even exiled for their music.

With all of these new ideas and styles, none of the music sounds the same at all! Every week we have listened to new and exciting music. My professor has helped me tune my non-musical ear so that I can hear and appreciate the differences within each song. Beyond that, I now also understand how incredibly complex often simple sounding music is. I also appreciate how much thought and dedication it takes to be a truly accomplished musician.

One of the requirements for the class is to attend three concerts that consist of music that pertains to the class (we were given a list of approved concerts to choose from). Although I did enjoy seeing Justin Timberlake (for personal fun, not for Music 100) more than the classical music concerts, I must admit that the classical concerts were still incredibly entertaining.

Watching how all of the instruments work together under the diligent instruction of the conductor was incredible. What I used to think of as crazy arm waving, was actually able to control and keep the entire orchestra playing together cohesively.

I used to think that going to the symphony was something that my grandparents and people that are music majors would enjoy, but not the general public. However, I could not have been more wrong. It was absolutely amazing.

I now know that the orchestra is something that can (and should) be enjoyed and appreciated by everyone. The music is absolutely beautiful. There is something spectacular about seeing the music actually being created, instead of just hearing it being played from a radio or speaker. When you see it, you begin to understand that it takes a lot of talent, hard work, and practice to make beautiful music.

You also being to realize that music is a lot more than just sound and occasionally words. It can convey a message with a deep emotional connection and meaning. Watching the concentration on the musicians faces as their brows furrow and their bodies lean forward slightly in their chairs, I can now appreciate that the glorious sounds they are producing are a product of work and preparation. I have a newfound respect for music and musicians.

I am so thankful that my Music 100 class required me to see a symphony in action. I will be attending them more often in the future!