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Writer's pictureWalter

RETIREMENT?




Ours is a world of perpetual passion, dedication, and unceasing evolution. Musicians, pianists, and piano pedagogues are individuals who have embarked on a lifelong journey, one that is often characterized by boundless dedication and unwavering commitment. While retirement may be a familiar concept in many professions, it is, in essence, an elusive and impractical notion when it comes to the world of music. As we dive into this hilarious notion of piano pedagogues "retiring," let's explore the incredulity and humour behind such an idea by delving into the enduring nature of their artistic pursuits, the profound impact they have on others, and the inherent connection between their art and their identity.

Enduring Nature of Artistic Pursuits: Retire from aiming for perfection? Really?

Imagine, for a moment, that you could retire from being a pianist or a piano pedagogue. It's as if you could pack up your metronome, sheet music, and passion, put them in a box labelled "Retirement," and call it a day. The reality, however, is quite different. Musicians and piano pedagogues are, by nature, perfectionists. They're the kind of people who, when they hear a piece they've played a thousand times before, still think, "I could do that better." So, the idea of retiring from their craft is as ludicrous as retiring from the pursuit of perfection itself. It's like saying, "I'm done trying to improve."

Profound Impact on Others: Retirement or Artistic Abandonment?

The impact of musicians, pianists, and piano pedagogues on others is astonishing. Their music can evoke emotions, move hearts, and inspire generations. To retire from this is to suggest that they can turn off their influence like a light switch. Picture this: after decades of moulding young minds and imparting musical wisdom, a piano pedagogue decides it's time to "retire." Does this mean they stop influencing the next Beethoven or Chopin? Of course not! It's like saying, "I'm retiring from making the world a better place through music."

The Inseparable Connection to Identity: Quitting Who You Are

Musicians, pianists, and piano pedagogues don't just have careers; they have identities deeply intertwined with their art. Their souls resonate with every note, every key, and every chord. So, when someone suggests they retire, it's like telling them to retire from being themselves. "Oh, you're a pianist? Just retire from that and be someone else for a change!" It's a laughable notion because, for these individuals, music is not just a part of their lives; it's the very essence of who they are.

Retirement is a punchline rather than a reality. Musicians, pianists, and piano pedagogues are bound by an enduring commitment to their art, an unwavering impact on others, and an inseparable connection to their identity. Returning from such a calling denies the beauty, passion, and humour that music brings. So, let's set aside the notion of piano pedagogues "retiring" and instead celebrate their perpetual dedication, for retirement is merely a comedic musical fantasy.


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Jun 11
Rated 5 out of 5 stars.

Of course retirement is not the same as getting very ill, consequently not being able to teach.

But, you've got a point.👍

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