Well friends. I am happy to report that my CD "A Place Called Peace" has earned the 2009 Indian Summer Music Award in the "Native American Flute" Category. I am honored, humbled and in the acceptance speech I mentioned how all of my resilient ancestors meet in my heart, and that is where the music is made. I know that my experiences and life represent so many people who have lived, worked, loved and passed that I may be here today. In other words each of our lives is never a solitary thing just as each accomplishment or award is never earned alone. The Indian Summer Music Festival has been a wonderful experience. The people are warm, funny and prone to jokes about everything. These characteristics are common to so many Native cultures and a side I value.
How fortunate am I to make a living doing what my genes, talents, willpower and sacrifice allows? Very. Working musicians, poets and artists take awards in stride and perspective. We have too. The recognition is sometimes a distraction from the work we do. Even so the recognition always opens more doors, allows us to endure, to eat, the afford a life. But, the true artists are compelled to express, to create and share it with others. It is like a fountain pen, regardless of its Gold or shiny inlay, must always return to the ink bottle for its sustenance--or it couldn't write. Such is music. I guess I'm that fountain pen.....
Thanks
Randy
