I’m not a musician. Most people aren’t. And yet music seems to weave itself around and through all of our lives. It taps into our hearts, lends a voice to our emotions, and carves indelible images into our memories. A tune may lift our spirits or bring tears to our eyes. The right score helps to carry us through a favorite film. One chord might unlock melodies and verses that were thought to be long forgotten.

We are fortunate to have in our midst the University of Wisconsin, an institution that understands the important role of the arts in our lives. Recently I helped the UW School of Music update their photo library by photographing some classes, rehearsals, and concerts. I was rewarded by having the opportunity to observe students, majors and non-majors alike, as they developed their musical talents and came together to perform in an amazing variety of bands, orchestras, and choral groups.

So, what is music? I’m not sure that I can describe it in words. Hopefully the photos in this book will give you a taste of what it might be for these young musicians.