Perseverance

What a month November turned out to be.  I decided to speak on a topic that every successful singer comes in contact with at some point in their life: perseverance.  The ability to overcome obstacles, in many forms, can make or break the success of any talented performer.  As performers, we are constantly subjected to criticisms, which, like it or not, are part of the business.  These come in many forms, and can range from a friendly suggestion to a scalding review.  Many successful singers have been quoted as saying an important trait central to their success is the ability to be "thick-skinned."  Working through difficult times is something central to every success story, in the performing world, business world, political world, etc.  We must hold true to our belief in ourselves, especially when things are not going as planned.  I personally can attest to this belief, as I have first hand struggled with obstacles that no singer would imagine as possible in their young training.  However, my belief in myself, and in the art of music has kept me afloat during these stormy months.  I say this not to elicit sympathy, but to personally attest to the power of belief.  There will be times in your journey when things do not make sense, when everything you knew to be right has turned upside down.  This is a challenge, to be sure, but it is only a temporary obstacle.  Things are always changing, and when they do, a mentally and emotionally strong performer will move forward with clarity, vision, and energy.