The most important advice you need to hear right now comes from musician Brian Eno, as quoted in Ode magazine: “I want to encourage you to sing . . . I believe singing is the key to a long life, a good figure, a stable temperament, greater intelligence, new friends, increased self-confidence, heightened sexual attractiveness, and a sense of humor.”
You should note, however, that Eno’s prescription does not include performing for other people. He believes it’s crucial that you sing for your own pleasure, and not be concerned about what others’ reactions might be.
You need “the freedom to get it wrong.” That’s a perfect guideline for you to observe in everything you do this week.
This article appears in Oct 8-14, 2008.