Pushing Pressure

     Rarely is it ever an occurrence where young musicians don’t struggle from the perceptions of society. Often students are scared from the constant pressure of their peers, parents, or close knitted community. These influences are precursors to harmful anxiety that push away musicians from finding their true potential. But what if there was a way to soothe the uneasiness? 

     Controversial as it may be, the greatest performers don’t become substantial through their talent, but rather their style and skill. Trying to reach your own standards of significance becomes challenging if your own characteristics don’t shine through. “My father played the trumpet, so I felt like I had to play the trumpet also to follow in his footsteps. There was a lot of pressure at first to enjoy it as much as he did, but soon I made it my own thing and I was proud to be able to do something my father did,” says a former trumpet performer. Being great doesn’t mean mimicking the skills of others, but rather making it your own thing. So how do you do it?

Take Inspiration 

   Whether it’s artists using samples, incorporating Afro beats, or turning everyday sounds into music, inspiration is key to developing love for music outside of societal pressures. Find sounds that resonate in musicians or simple everyday sounds in the real world. 

     Yvette Young, a current guitar player in the band Covet takes inspiration from the environmental factors around her. Most profoundly expressing the sound of the sea in her compositions. (Jam Play)

https://youtu.be/GvooKQm1NHI?si=Up6N7yGgTfWHZB5a

• Yvette’s “Always”

     Olivia Dean, singer of her recent album Messy expresses the feeling of falling for a new lover and passing the hard experiences of break ups in relationships. Instances of her inspiration come from day to day conversations and instances to her own experiences in therapy. (“Olivia Dean's new album inspired by Carrie Bradshaw”) In her recent song called Lady Lady, it reminds her of, “the power we hold as women.” (Sobhan)

     Like Olivia Dean and Yvette Young, you too can find your own passion through the daily experiences of life. Finding what connects with you can be as simple as liking nature and as difficult as facing anxiety. Do what’s best for you to succeed in a tone that adheres to your style. 

Play For Fun 

    Music doesn’t always have to be found by overworking yourself for performances and competitions. Hayato Sumino, also known as Canteen, was a contestant in the 18th Chopin competition. However, while participating in egregious world wide competitions, he still finds time to enjoy music outside playing a numerous amount of fun pieces.

https://youtu.be/KVAhdmxCI20?si=a-KDsTETFdQeBXQP

• Hayato Sumino playing 7 variations of Twinkle Twinkle Little Star 

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Conclusion

     Appreciating music over well-being is a prevalent saying that forces musicians to give up on themselves. Being at your most authentic means being at your healthiest as well. Overlooking these factors could cause irreparable damage to your body and mind that could potentially stagnate your music process. Remember that your health is the most important component to being distinguished, never forget to be yourself.

Works Cited

Jam Play. “Yvette Young.” https://jamplay.com/guitar-lessons/yvette-young.

“Olivia Dean's new album inspired by Carrie Bradshaw.” Music-News.com, https://www.music-news.com/news/UK/183376/Olivia-Dean-s-new-album-inspired-by-Carrie-Bradshaw. Accessed 4 August 2025.

Sobhan, Athena. “Olivia Dean - Lady Lady - EUPHORIA.” Olivia Dean - Lady Lady, https://www.euphoriazine.com/blog/2025/07/music/tracks-olivia-dean-lady-lady/.