I Am Dedicated
If you want to learn how to play an instrument, you invest in a guitar, piano, drum set, whatever. You practice everyday; you learn chords, progressions, finger placement and timing. Spare moments are spent thinking about how to improve or what to try next. Songs repeat themselves in your mind. You become dedicated.
Even if you cannot create music, being a fan takes dedication too. Driving to shows, buying merch and spreading the word—it takes time. You tap your fingers along to your favorite song and save up money for a ticket to an upcoming show. Honestly, fans spend just as much time appreciating music as bands do making it.
As for me, I dabble in instruments. I’ve never had the patience to teach myself and no one has ever offered instruction. I own an acoustic guitar and a 37 key electronic keyboard. I can play two songs on each. Although I’d love to learn to play, I’m just as content listening.
Music constantly engulfs me: when I drive, do homework, write, check Facebook, sleep, get ready for school, walk my dogs and make dinner. I set aside money from every paycheck for an upcoming show. I drive three hours to Portland, wait outside the venue in the Oregon rain and suffer through ten-year olds screaming as the band walks on stage. I buy a shirt from sassy merch salesmen and wait in ridiculous lines to get a picture or say hello. I am dedicated.
