January 08, 2025

Episode 057 - Who Am I Without My Instrument?

17 minutes

Description:

In this introspective episode, we delve into the profound question posed by one of my students: "Who am I without my instrument?" Join me as we explore the nuances of identity, self-worth, and the personal journey beyond the confines of our professions. Through personal anecdotes and reflections, I share insights on separating our self-esteem from our professional achievements, the joys and challenges of musicianship, and the importance of personal growth over legacy.

This episode is not just for musicians but for anyone who has ever felt defined by their work. Remember, you are more than what you do.

Key Points Discussed:

Identity and Music: How I differentiate between being a musician and being a person.

Self-Esteem: The impact of professional setbacks on personal identity and why it's crucial to base self-worth on who we are, not what we do.

Personal Stories: Remembering Maurice Murphy for his personality rather than his trumpet playing; my father's influence on my understanding of identity.

Life After the Vienna Philharmonic: My decision to leave to discover my true self, the initial failure, and the eventual personal success.

Professional vs. Personal Identity: The dangers of defining oneself by an institution or job title.

The Joy of Music: How playing the trombone serves as my therapy, voice, and joy, yet isn't the entirety of my identity.

On Not Leaving a Legacy: My philosophy on living in the present moment and moving forward without a focus on posterity.

Highlights:

"When I think back to those no longer with us, I remember who they were, not what they did."

"Our self-esteem should be based on our growth as individuals, not on our professional roles."

"I left the Vienna Philharmonic to find out who I was, without the orchestra's name attached to mine."

Keywords for Search:

Identity, musician, self-esteem, Vienna Philharmonic, personal growth, music therapy, professional identity, self-discovery, trombone, legacy, Maurice Murphy, career failure.

Timestamps:

[00:01] Introduction to the question "Who am I without my instrument?"

[05:00] Discussing the impact of profession on personal identity

[10:30] Personal anecdotes on remembering loved ones

[15:45] Leaving the Vienna Philharmonic and the journey of self

[20:00] The importance of not defining oneself by job or achievements

[25:10] Music as more than a profession: therapy, voice, and joy

[30:00] Reflecting on the philosophy of not living for posterity

If you've ever pondered your identity outside your career, share your thoughts or questions in the comments. Let's continue this conversation together!

Release Date: 08.01.2025
Host: Ian Bousfield
Podcast Name: The Ian Bousfield Experience
Podcast Episode: 057

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By Ian Boufsield

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