another kind of play
There's this feeling inside of me I can't quite articulate, though I've been trying. It's a pushing and a pulling, simultaneously. A desire for speed and a longing for slowness. It's a deep inhale as well as a series of quick shallow breaths. There's a dry-mouthed thirst for comfort and a simultaneous full-body ease that feels plush and soft. What could be more comfortable than these soft shorts and t-shirt I'm wearing, while sitting in my AC'd Brooklyn loft, surrounded by beautiful instruments that I can touch and play whenever I want? With all the humility I can muster, I feel fuckin' lucky...and, I want more.
Over the last couple of months, the soundscape in the aforementioned loft has shifted and broadened. Levina has begun taking guitar lessons, and this past weekend she found a keyboard on facebook marketplace, on which she's already taught herself the Succession theme song and a piece of Bohemian Rhapsody. It's kind of blowing my mind.
The other day, we sat inside the Sonic Sphere in Hudson Yards, waiting for the sound to start. I sank into the netting, and lights began to carousel above us while atmospheric, stereo bass and drums swirled us into track after track. At one point Levina asked me what instrument was being played. In another moment I felt her picking out the kick drum part, noticing the pattern and gently tapping it on her leg.
I beamed with pride.
This isn't a dynamic I searched for or expected in a relationship. It feels like a bonus. It feels like I won the lottery. Music is very clearly a massive part of my life, and it wasn't necessary for my partner to also be interested in learning or playing music. Her curiosity pushes my curiosity. It keeps me on my toes. At dinner two nights ago, she told me that she hopes I don't get competitive when she starts learning drums which, she confidently shared, will be happening soon.
Recently, a friend told me that she thinks the next chapter for many of our adult friends will be to learn instruments, and to dive deeper into the language of music, engaging in a new type of "play." She believes music will be the thing we all seek out, especially as a way to engage with new and growing children.
It feels exciting to hear that hypothesis, and I wonder how/if this resonates with you. How is music currently playing a role in your life? How would you like it to be in your life?
And what are these contradicting feelings I described earlier? It feels like groove. It feels like rhythm. How cool is it to be living, breathing, vibrating vessels of sound?!
|| Here are some ways I'm currently sharing rhythm/sound/music at the moment ||
Virtual 10-week immersive Rhythm of Happiness experience (the summer cohort is currently underway; the fall cohort will be launching in September). Hint: not just for "drummers"
Rhythmic Breathwork: I've started leading IRL and virtual breathwork sessions, using live instruments and recorded sounds as the guide. I'd love to share a session with you!
I'm co-leading a sound meditation at the Bang & Olufsen space in Manhattan next Wed (7/12) at 7:30pm. It's donation based and there are a few spots left. Let me know if you'd like to join or RSVP at listening@soundtemple.nyc
This episode of Flea's new podcast really inspired me, especially the very end. Highly recommend.
Here's my July 2023 playlist for your listening pleasure
Thanks for reading and for being you.