[font="times new roman"]When I was younger, musical ability was evident. Mom was anxious to start me on lessons, but a lack of money led me to the next best thing – basketball! The major lessons learned in basketball closely reflect those in music: The ensemble was our team. The conductor-coach gave instruction and we quickly found that either we followed direction, or our performance would be abysmal. As players, we learned to watch, listen and respond to one another. Those unwilling to dedicate hundreds of hours to practice wouldn’t make it to a higher level. Total commitment to the team and to skill development has been paramount to success. Practice, practice, practice! And then the test: Performance before huge crowds forces us to focus, to move with ease and to carry on with poise when an error is made. Drive, dedication, focus, perseverance, teamwork, performance. Basketball: the perfect substitute for music lessons! [/font]