Simplify

Although simplifying can relate to many things, I'm going straight to the monkey chatter! When monkey chatter is eliminated (or at least quieted!), it is amazing what can happen.

When I perform, I am engaged with the music. However, I also sense that I'm not as connected with it as I feel I could be. I have always felt fulfilled by what I offer when I perform, but I have also felt guarded to a certain degree...like I was making the music happen instead of allowing the music to happen. A profound difference.

My friend and singer/songwriter Diane and I did a benefit concert on Saturday night. It was a delightfully eclectic mix of music. My solo contribution was predominantly classical piano with one spiritual near the end. I don't even know if I can adequately express what happened during that concert.

I was "appropriately nervous" while feeling very ready to share what I prepared. I sat down to play my first solo set after a vaudeville-type comedic number to open. BIG shift in gears. I sat down on the bench, took a breath and said to myself, "let's do this!" And I allowed like never before. I was deeply engaged with the music while being engaged with the audience. Little note mistakes slipped through my fingers and I didn't even think twice about them. EVER. My hands didn't shake because I made a mistake, my brain didn't start to over-analyze...I simply allowed. I eliminated the unnecessary criticism and allowed the necessary to speak. And it did. And it was received.

Piece after piece was the same experience. The dynamics felt so incredibly organic and spoke more honestly than ever before. The depth of each moment filled me and inspired me to allow even more. I took risks when I played and allowed myself to be seen in my gift. It felt amazing.

The gifts of the concert continue with amazing financial support for Eli and his family. It was an evening of pure connection, love and joy.

May you allow yourself to be curious enough to notice when you are making something happen versus allowing something to happen.

Eliminate the unnecessary so the necessary may speak...