Why did you choose to become a musician?
It just happened one day when I was very young. I was very fortunate to grow up in a musical family. We would have family gatherings on weekends that featured lots of musical experiences for me at an early age. My dad, uncles, aunts, cousins and I would play and those that didn't play an instrument would sing. It was a wonderful beginning for a youngster growing up with that kind of musical bond. It seems funny to mention but all of the elders at that time just knew that I was going to be a career musician.
What is your experience when you feel connected into the music?
Being connected to the MUSIC seems to only happen when "one gets out of the way" and just lets it happen. This I find to be very true in classical playing, jazz playing and everything between.
What is your experience of when you don't feel connected to your music?
I always seek to be connected to the MUSIC. Even when I'm playing one note at a time or whether it be warming up, playing long tones, scales, arpeggios or a written piece I might be working on. The idea is to always be thinking about the MUSIC. Every sound one makes with his or her instrument should represent MUSIC.
Where does your inspiration comes from? What does it feel like?
I have always felt that my inspirations come from God. It feels like a very special gift that keeps giving when you approach that wonderful gift, playing it with a humble attitude.
What is your experience while improvising? Does it relate to any spirituality you may practice in your life?
First, I listen very closely to all of the other participants I'm engaged with and proceed to find my musical path or placement in the mix of things, then, travel that musical pathway with my SOUND and thus tell my musical story. Absolutely! I believe that the better players and performers all acknowledge the wonderful creator, God, when engaging and sharing their individual Spirit.
Where does your inspiration while composing come from? What is your experience of that inspiration like?
Basically the same place. The better or supreme MUSIC, whether being performed
or prepared by a composer, comes from the same place.
It's a wonderful feeling that makes me and hopefully the others that are listening, in many ways, feel nourished or satisfied. One might keep in mind, that everyone might listen differently although, there are those same common similarities that are shared by few. I think, the idea is to always touch the soul of not only the performer, but even more importantly, the listener.
Do you have any fun stories of inspirational moments to share?
I have a wealth of stories which I will be sharing soon in my autobiography.
GEORGE YOUNG
Testimonial
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