In anticipation of attending a Jon Batiste concert, I watched the documentary of Batiste and his wife Suleika Jaouad, an author whose memoirs are inspiring. American Symphony touched me deeply. There are many many things to recommend this intimate look at the two: She is undergoing cancer treatment, while he is pushing his limits, writing a full symphony the year his album “We Are” received 9 Grammy nominations and 5 wins.
I will just share the deep wisdom Batiste offers anyone who works in any of the creative arts. It’s a mind set that is so hard to achieve, much less sustain. I watched the film and heard the words when I needed to hear them: You have to confront the brutal … reality that you might not pull it off but at the same time have faith, completely unwavering faith, and you have to do both at the same time.
Thanks Mr. Batiste. Looking forward to seeing you on stage in Eugene, Oregon.
Susan Palmer's Exquisite Now 