If you’re a regular Eargasms reader, you know I’ve been on the prowl for guest bloggers: musically aware or involved folks who can help make my humble blog a better artistic journal and advocacy platform within our performing arts community.

I was thus delighted when Louise Dubin – the Charleston Symphony’s Principal Cellist since last season – approached me with an eloquent essay that explores the most vital human quality of great music: its emotional complexity and depth … and hence its therapeutic power, especially in times of crisis and uncertainty.

So I’m proud to pass her heartfelt, beautifully written reflections on to you below. And, as you read on, bear in mind that here is the view from where our musical rubber meets the road. Here is an appeal from one of many superb musicians whose already-spare livelihoods are in dire peril these days. Here are the passions and goals of an awesome artist who – like any real musician – wants nothing more in life than to apply her talents and training to bring joy and strength to her listeners.

And I can’t think of a better way to kick off the New Year in Eargasms. Let’s make it the year we find firm and durable ways to keep the arts alive in Charleston. Make it your first New Year’s resolution to send a link to Eargasms to everybody you know.

Now, here’s Louise:

A friend of mine in college once said, “Dancing is to me an utter waste of time.” I figured that trying to convince him otherwise would be an utter waste of MY time. But if someone makes similar comments about live classical music, I feel compelled to speak up.

In this economy we are all trying to scale back and save money for necessities. In times like this, paying the rent and feeding ourselves trump all. But once those needs are met, what is it that makes our lives worth living? Especially in times of stress? We are constantly bombarded with information, much of it negative – so how do we console ourselves? Do we disengage, hide, or seek instant gratification in a bag of jelly donuts? How about a zero-calorie Charleston Symphony Orchestra ticket?

Be warned- if you don’t feel like having an emotional experience, you may want to stay away from our concerts. There are no platitudes here, nor self-deceptions. The greatest composers seek naked truths or contradictory feelings – sometimes humor, or even the depths of despair … thereby giving us a fresh appreciation of the strength of the human spirit that ties these all together and comes through alive in the end.

And unlike superficial clips on the 5 o’clock news, here you have time for exploration; time to lose yourself alternately between your thoughts and the guided emotions of the composition being performed. The disorganized noise in your head is replaced by a strengthening tune, or a sad strain, or something hilarious: a fresh soundtrack to help you unwind the film of your life.

I have seen live classical music work in all walks of life, regardless of age, race or income. After performing in a women’s shelter, a 30-something woman stopped me on the sidewalk when I was leaving to tell me she was upset, because the music had made her cry. I told her that for me, sometimes it’s good to cry – and suddenly, thanks to Dvorak, we had a bond that had not been there an hour ago.

I have a great time being a professional musician, but I also believe that what I do is valuable to society. I am not a doctor, but I know that, out there in the dark concert hall, people are healing because of what we’re doing on stage. Is it escape, or a valuable parallel universe? I think it’s both.

So if you have cut out the non-essentials but are now feeling that something is missing, may I propose an evening with the Charleston Symphony?

Louise Dubin