Geeraerts Kylie The Power of Music Singing is the glue that holds my life together. While it may seem unimportant to some people, to me music is everything. Through rain or shine I always find comfort in listening to my favorite artists such as The Beatles and Taylor Swift. Though tragic things have happened to me, there is a security that I have found through singing. When I sing it's like every problem just melts away for a while. Music is a powerful thing. Music has always been a big part of my life. Some of my earliest memories were of road trips singing in the car with mom and dad. Anywhere I went I was singing a tune in my head or out loud. My dad and I bonded over our love for 70s rock and roll. The Beatles: John, George, Ringo and Paul, are people I look up to greatly for their musical genius. As a child I hoped to be like them one day. I would put on mini concerts in the living room and sing all my favorite Karaoke songs. As I matured I realized maybe I wasn't as talented as them; but I didn't let that discourage me from doing what I love. Everything changed for me on September 2nd 2020, at only 45 my dad had passed away unexpectedly from a major heart attack. This greatly impacted me as we were very close. I didn't find happiness in the things we once enjoyed doing together anymore. I didn't sing or listen to music for months as everything reminded me of him. Until one day I found the courage to put on our favorite Beatles song, In My Life. As I listened I felt connected to my dad, like he was still there with me. That was the day I realized music was my calling, my only happiness through the darkest times of my life. Slowly I began singing everyday again as I once did. I found safety in singing and used it as a way to calm myself down when I got emotional, I still do to this day. When the time came around for me to pick my classes for my freshman year of high school I was certain of one thing; I wanted to be in chorus. I had never been very outspoken but choir helped me grow as a musician and as a person. Being in chorus gave me a sense of familiarity, something to come back to every year. Throughout my time in choir I have become much less timid. Music has helped me come out of my shell and make new friends who have my same passion. I used to dream of performing at Solo and Ensemble or auditioning for a spot in All State. With hard work, determination, and a lot of encouragement from my Director, I've made those dreams come true. My success has led me to be the only member of my choir this year to qualify for an Honor cord. I know my dad would be very proud of me for my commitment and resilience. Life isn't always going to be easy, so I'm glad I have found something that brings me comfort and security. I hope to continue finding joy in music for the rest of my life. Music connects me to my family, friends, and community. It is an essential thing in my life, without music life would be boring and colorless. Although I may never be on Broadway, I hope to continue pursuing my passion for singing for a very long time.