Where Words Fail, Music Speaks: A Student's Perspective

by Margaret Cocco



Whenever I disclose what it is I go to school for, I can expect one of two reactions: empathetic enthusiasm or doubts about my sanity. More often than not it is the latter of the two. As an engineer, a nurse, or even a teacher in any other discipline I would not get the same reaction, but I'm not by nature an engineer, a nurse, a math or a science teacher. I am a musician.

When asked to write an article for this newsletter, I was given the freedom to describe to you whatever it is I feel is most important to communicate about my experience as a music student at Oakland University. Immediately, what came to mind was to answer briefly and as simply as possible the question asked of all those who pursue an education and career in the arts. Why? Some members of my family had the most difficult time with my decision to go into music. I remember when I told them that I'd decided on my path for college. At first they gave me every reason not to pursue music – money, few jobs, highly competitive, more years and credits per semester than the average degree...money! They even went as far as to threaten to withdraw their financial and emotional support. This made for a very stressful transition from high school to college. Still, while I was dismayed, I was not deterred.

Unlike many professions, being a musician is more than a job, more than a career, and more than a means of being a productive member of society or making some dough. It is about the fundamental human need for expression. Language and even actions have their limits. As Hans Christian Andersen succinctly put it, “Where words fail, music speaks.”

For me, as for many artists, there is a selfish aspect to the pursuit of music. I have a lot to say, and as music is my medium, I intend to equip myself with the means of expressing it. But there is a reason beyond self that makes music a worthwhile pursuit. Music is healing. Not only does writing and performing music give me an outlet to express myself, it acts as a beacon to those who hear it and can relate: you are not alone.

Music is the realization of thought, feeling, emotion, even moments in time. It has the power to invoke thought, alter and create emotions in individuals, and unlike anything else, can do so over and over again. It is so important that music be used and recognized for what it is: an invaluable tool. I went into music to help others and to help myself. In times of happiness or pain only the purity of music fully expresses the intensity of my emotion.

Music as a tool comes naturally to me, and I know how lost I would be without the liberation it provides. I want to share that knowledge. I would like to dispel right now the misconception that music, or any other art, is a gift which only some people have and most do not. Some people may have more artistic aptitude than others, but the desire for self-expression and the need to be heard are common denominators for musicianship that exists among all people. Everyone should feel they can make music, not just enjoy it. I believe music is a tool that is essential to the health of individuals and society as whole. I believe we can use music to better understand people and the world around us.

For this reason, music gives me a purpose and the possibility of enjoying a fulfilling, healthful life that no other career can offer. There is no other pursuit that holds more value to me, and I believe that the vivacity of the arts is a barometer for the health of our society.

Maggie Cocco is a Vocal Performance and Music Education major. She is a member of the Oakland Chorale.

Photo: Michael Mitchell, conductor, and members of the Chorale and Chorus.