What I Learned from Frank Battisti

Post #300!! What I originally planned for this post is taking way too long to do, so I'll save it for another day. Instead, I'm going to share some things I was told from Frank Battisti.

For those of you who don't know who he is: Frank Battisti is the conductor emeritus of the New England Conservatory of Music Wind Ensemble, an ensemble he founded and conducted for 30 years. It is recognized as one of the United States' first premiere band ensembles. Battisti is widely renowned for his conducting skills and as well as sheer dedication to the art of music, and has led or founded several musical associations in the US. 

In November 2013, I was lucky enough to have Mr. Battisti visit the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, where he gave my conducting lab a little lecture about the importance of music and the arts. The notes I took from that session were buried in my binder until recently, and since I've re-discovered them, I would like to take the time to share Mr. Battisti's expertise with you. Whether or not any of these notes mean anything to you is completely your choice, but I surely do hope you all can find some joy in the wise words of this great figure in music today.

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"Music is important because:
-It can help people solve problems creatively. 
-One is able to transcend time and geographical boundaries. 
-Humans were built to be receptive to this language
-All differences between musicians disappear"

"Music should be included in the education of all young people"

"You study music, not band, orchestra, or choir"

On Teaching Music:
"When you're a great teacher, there is no problem"
"Passion isn't nice; it's absolutely necessary"
"You have to become and artist and a teacher"
"Students are watching you!"

On Playing:
"Instruments are an extension of your body"
"Playing an instrument is more than playing the right notes"

*"Music is by far the most important subject in the curriculum"*

On Selecting Music for Students:
"Find music that students can play, but is challenging to convey"
"For the young, only the best is good enough"
"When the music is crappy, there's nothing to discover"

"If you can't understand music, you can't be excited by it"

*"Music is important for every kid"*