Can creativity be taught? Don’t underestimate the value of inspiration!
2013 is finally here and we can’t wait to get our season started! There are a lot of big ideas, big concerts and big projects on the horizon and they all have one strong goal connecting them; INSPIRATION.
in·spi·ra·tion
noun \ˌin(t)-spə-ˈrā-shən
from the Latin inspirare, meaning” to breath into”
I can’t tell you how often I hear the opinion that creativity cannot be taught. To be honest, I’m not sure if we’ll ever know the truth or fiction of this notion, but I do know this; creative thought requires a spark to ignite it. This spark is inspiration. As a place of higher learning, Florida Tech has an obligation to provide this spark ,and to this end our professors dazzle with their innovations and enthusiasm. In music, we need a spark too. Our music faculty excel in this, but our biggest projects and our most exciting exploits bring bring friends from our community and around the world to perform, enlighten and enhance our music program experience.
Performances are fun, but they last such a short time! Critics might say this is a waste of time and money, but we understand that this is how creativity is taught. It starts with a spark from an electrifying musical experience. Then it is cultivated through study and practice. Periodically, it needs to be reignited by another performance or another encounter. Spark after spark.
If there is one small piece of advice I can offer in 2013, it is this: Don’t try to guess whether you are the “creative type” or if you have what it takes to be creative. Only ask if you are inspired. All innovation, all progress comes from inspiration so seek this first. Whether you are experiencing a mental block in your school projects or a creative block in your art, hearing a great concert or attending a new art exhibit can relieve stress and open doors for ideas. Try it. You’ll be amazed!
Best wishes for an inspired New Year!
