Joyful

What makes a good commercial keyboardist?  It would seem that Ben’s experiences as a pianist growing up in Illinois prepared him well for that role.  First, he started young and learned music in multiple ways—not only as a pianist but as a singer and trombonist.  He learned enough about note-reading to be able to accompany singers by the time he was in middle school.  He sang in musicals, participated in marching band, choir and jazz band.  He gigged extensively for years and even writes his own music.  His exposure and appreciation of all types of music and willingness to learn all types of music has served him well in the roles of high school choir teacher, dueling pianist and Nashville sideman.  

Listening back to my conversation with Ben I’m struck by other qualities he has that ensure success as a musician.  First, he’s grateful and appreciative of his experiences and the people who have helped him.  Second, he’s open to learning and willing to work hard.  Third, he’s responsible and respectful to his bandmates and audience.  Fourth, he’s into keyboards and honoring music by finding sounds and learning parts as closely as possible.  Fifth, he’s into service and enjoys making people happy playing music.  Sixth, money isn’t necessarily the factor that determines which gigs he plays and despite that, he has found himself landing more lucrative work.  Seventh, he is focused on what matters as he states so clearly:  “Don’t lose sight of why music is so powerful and that’s really why I love it and dig into it.  I’ve been so fortunate to have it in my life.”

At the time of going live with this episode, I haven’t yet heard Ben’s new song, “Joyful,” but I’m absolutely certain that it is a product of living magnificently.