by Bob Gibson

That Moment when the Musician Hits the Zone

Mandatory piano lessons and a short run at trying to learn how to make music with a guitar taught me that while I can learn the technical side of the instrument, that is not the same as creating music.

Musicians bring a passion and intensity to their art. There is an intrinsic quality that brings the music to life. I have seen striking examples of how essential "making music" is to the musician.

In New Orleans, after Hurricane Katrina, getting the Jazz and Heritage Festival up and running quickly was important to show the cultural, i.e. musical side, of the city was still very much alive.

During the recent pandemic I observed musicians collaborating through "virtual" sessions and streaming their music to virtual audiences. Those who make music must find a way to make music regardless of the immediate circumstances. I find this drive to create fascinating.

It has been an honor to observe and photographically record this process first-hand. The photographs in the "Watch For It!" portfolio have been selected to celebrate that instant when the musician and their music become one. It is like an athlete getting in the "zone" where muscle memory and reactions take over from active thought. I have included images of the preparation and the celebration of a successful performance. In every case, the prints are a celebration of the creativity and drive of the musician. What they are doing is as critical to them as breathing. They add much to our world.

Bob Gibson

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