It's really a two-part answer. First, it's a challenge and I like challenges... To play music for people, when everyone else is silent, on the day that they'll remember for the rest of their lives, is very stressful. Not many people would do it. But personally, I'm convinced that the only way to beat stress is to meet it head on. And this is my way to take a bite out of it.
The second part I just discovered tonight. Elizabeth (I'm playing at her wedding), who is getting married in less than two weeks told me on the phone tonight told me something that really hit me. She said that in the midst of all the chaos of wedding planning, she visits my site, listens to my more mellow pieces and the stress just sort of melts away.. at least for the time being. It was very sweet and brought me back to the late nights writing some of these songs while picturing Montara Mountain, the fields below the mountain and the ocean just across the way. How could I not write peaceful music living in such a place?
Lastly.. music is definitely something to share.. and when someone appreciates your gift, it's really magical. My wife likes what my kindergarten teacher (or was it 1st grade?) wrote on my report card. "Mike likes to share with others". Maybe the years don't change us as much as we might think?
Mike
