Time never stands
still; this is true for all things that exist. As time slowly but continuously
creeps along, change inevitably follows behind. Cultures that exist now and
have existed throughout time all have evolved, changed, or been forgotten. The
musical traditions of each culture have followed along in time’s ever grasping
hands. But, many hold on to what is considered traditional aspects of cultures
from the past. Music will forever exist as long as time creeps along. The question arises; can music be stainable
in cultures that are continuously evolving? This author’s reply is music can
never be truly lost as it is a valued driving force in life.
Censorship of music has existed throughout
many cultures in history. Many
repertoires have been lost and many more musicians have perished without truly
being realized in their lifetimes’. Yet, many pieces from hundreds, even
thousands of years from the past still exist today. One may look at the
ever-evolving culture around them and see traditional culture under threat by
these changes, and this can be true from humanity’s history. But one must take
into note that individuals can change the world. Tradition can be revalued as
it has been in China since the Cultural Revolution, people can make the
difference. The musicians that held onto traditional values helped keep that
culture alive in that time of censorship.
Each
and every musician is a testament to the enduring power of music. This gift of
resonance that each person is bestowed, the first music we hear in life, a
heartbeat, is proof that music will be forever sustained. The sounds and
instruments may change wildly as time creeps along, but those who cherish the
traditions of cultures’ past will continue to hold that torch of an enduring
sound. What will be sustained in music is up to you.