In a music independent study I took my freshman year of high school, I described what my voice felt like in my body. My director told me to think of the shape my voice takes in my head, the texture, and the way it moves. After some thought, I decided my voice was a metallic being, which gave a visual of my tone which has been described as: bright, brassy, and my favorite, yellow. My voice resembled the idea of a slinky, but more intricate. It was in a complicated ball shape that constantly moved and twisted itself around, but never got tangled. The shape moved at varied speeds depending on tempo. I saw a rainbow of colors which fluctuated based on the mood of the song. Soft colors reflected quieter sections, but bold colors resembled parts to be sung forte. Though it sounds strange, this description I gave my voice has helped me understand my voice so much. This description also helped me understand the individuality my voice has.

This discovery has shown me a world of opportunities in music. My love for singing and playing instruments, as well as teaching others, grows every day. I have known since the first day of music class in preschool I was destined to work in a profession based on music. Some people find a sport, some people love a specific scientific field, but for me, it is music. From honor festivals for band and choir, to piano lessons, to participating in musicals and All-State Choir I have taken every chance to further my musical abilities.

Why? Simple.

I. Love. Music.

I suppose I should get to the point now. If I am being really honest, music to me is not just a passion or a hobby. In all honesty, it feels like my love interest. I mean, I don't have that special someone who can make me feel better, know the right words to say, give my comfort in times of need, change my mood, and touch my heart. Music does that for me. Music is my life, especially now in college, when my major is based upon music. To me, it feels like music is just as much a necessity as water. I cannot remember the last time I have gone through a day without singing, playing an instrument, or listening to music.

Music holds a special place in my heart. I cannot tell you how many times a piece of music or a musician has brought to or close to tears. Music brings so much emotion to my body, it is sometimes overwhelming. I wish I could describe in detail the way music makes me feel, but I just can't.

I find myself in question of many aspects of my life, very often. Never once, however, have I questioned the importance of music in my life. I never will. Music is part of me as a human being. I am made to enjoy, embrace, and exhale music.

So, what does music mean to me?

Music is all I have described and maybe just a few things more that I might end up describing another time. To be cliché, music is life.