Life took a strange path couple months ago, and it’s not over yet. Artists are among the most impacted people: our resistance is being tested; nevertheless, I deeply believe it is our duty to fight for our art, our music, our life. Our mission is to go through all the challenges to still bring emotions to people.
I’m now on my way to Norway, where I’ll be quarantine for ten days before I can rehearse and perform on the 21st. I won’t be allowed to go to any public places, and will have to stay inside most of the time. It took me close to twelve hours to travel from Paris to Kristiansand because regular flights are suspended.
It would be easy and understandable to stop fighting, but maybe now more than ever, we need to push through.
I can’t express my gratitude to all the presenters, agents, orchestra managers… who are constantly struggling these days, but still finding other ways to bring live music to people. Virtual concerts are a great thing, but there will never be anything like being in a concert hall.
When some voices are suggesting art and culture are not essential, time has come to use all of our energies to prove them wrong.
You must have chaos within you to give birth to a dancing star.
Friedrich Nietzsche
Anyone who suggests art and culture aren’t necessary will never comprehend how precious our artists are and their great contributions. They are an extremely small minority. Never give up. Just flow with the situation and realize the impact you have on so many lives. One situation that can help artists such as yourself is to have sponsors on your side. This can be a financial benefit and help you through these times. Composing is also very beneficial where hundreds of thousands of students are earger for new music. Not only is this a financial benefit but also exposes the artists at a different level and allows the artist to focus on another area of creativity. I am seeing this now with wonderful results.