Music and My Life by Ali

Music is so many things. All across the world and throughout history music has helped develop culture and pride. Although it is constantly evolving all around the globe, I believe music is, and shall always be, an indivisible connection shared by anyone who has ever been a part of it whether in performing or listening. Human kind has always been driven to expand and express emotion. Music is one of the oldest ways of doing just this. It can tell stories, carry a message, stand in the unalterable memory of past struggles, tell of everlasting love, instill pride in a whole nation, or, most important of all, simply bring us all together. In some way or another, music has touched us all, and showed us the world in a new light. As for me, well, music has purely changed my whole life.

My personal journey into music began four years ago. I had been bugging my parents for a long time to get me a violin, and finally they did. I can still remember that first night, as I opened the battered case and looked upon the little violin that was contained within. Little did I know, years of dedication, joyful times, new experiences, disappointments, a countless number of friends, and true passion were near in the future, all because of that instrument. I began taking lessons and the more I learned the more I fell in love with music. Suddenly, I had the gift of expression, I could finally find the words that had been hidden within me for so long, and now in a new way, I could speak them. As time went on, and I became more and more dedicated to my violin studies, my teacher suggested that I attend ASA. After two year of indecision, I finally applied and got accepted in eighth grade. This was by far the best place music had taken me. I made countless friends, and learned amazing things from the people around me. My worldview expanded and I learned to think independently. I excelled in academics as well as in my arts, which were extended to choir and piano as well as violin. I soon became involved in all different musical and academic events, and I was truly pushed to my fullest potential.

Every day, music is around me, and it is helping me to become the person I want to be. In the future, I know my studies will take me wherever I want to go. I feel very fortunate to have such a passion that provides me with countless opportunities, and the ability to connect with other people all across the world. Music has truly changed my life.