We all have times in our lives when we feel down. The tragic and horrible news we read about every day is enough to cause us to feel sad and helpless.

How can we, as musicians ,bring joy and uplift the spirits of people in our lives? One of the world’s greatest philosophers, John Stuart Mill, who had possibly the highest IQ on the planet, felt that happiness is not found by searching for it.

“Happiness is a by product of a life that focuses not just on oneself but mostly on other people and pursuits.” He said,” Those only are happy who have their minds fixed on some object other than their own happiness: On the happiness of others, on the improvement of mankind,even on some art or pursuit…..Aiming thus at something else, they find happiness by the way.”

How does this relate to all of us as musicians? I feel that during this holiday season and, really, any time of the year, we can lift the spirits of everyone through our music…playing our accordions for all kinds of people.

You might say, “How can I make someone happy through music? I am only a beginner. I am not a good player. I can’t memorize songs. I feel too self conscious.”

You do not have to feel that way. Be confident, grateful for your abilities, and share your music! Learn some holiday songs, patriotic songs, show songs, ethnic songs, popular songs…….pick up your music stand and just go!

Where should you go? Call a local senior citizens home, hospital, your child’s or grandchild’s school. Bring your accordion to your friends or relatives holiday gathering. You will be very surprised at how much you will be appreciated. Don’t worry if you are a beginner or think you are not that good of a musician. People will appreciate you and your music!

William Danforth, the founder of Ralston Purina, found a wonderful way to expess these ideas. He said,”Catch a passion for helping others and a richer life will come back to you!”

I believe that music exists in our world to bring peace and happiness to everyone. Let’s make this holiday season a more joyous and happy time by sharing our music and playing our accordions for everybody!

Another way to celebrate the holidays in a positive way is to be supportive of our accordion artists, composers, and arrangers by buying their CD’s and music for holiday gifts.

In the accordion holiday gift article following this editorial, there is an impressive list of accordionists offering their wonderful and festive eSheet music and recordings.

It is a one stop accordion gift shop, online, and easy to do. What is the greatest benefit of doing this? YOU will have more time to practice your accordion and attend accordion concerts/events!

Happy Holidays!!!! Rita Davidson – Editor, USA News