Devotion to Craft vs. Perfectionism

A musician expresses her concern about the competitive, judgmental nature of music education that traumatised many of her peers. She wants to change how music and creativity are taught, using the non-dual understanding. Rupert acknowledges her concern while noting there’s value in the discipline required at the highest levels of artistry. He references conductor Benjamin Zander as an inspirational teacher whose enthusiasm and love of music are contagious, while recognising that professional musicians must submit to rigorous discipline to perform flawlessly. Comparing it to the Federer-Nadal tennis rivalry, he suggests that competition can elevate performance, provided there’s respect off-court. The life of an artist, he explains, is a sacrifice – submitting one’s body-mind to an ordeal so spirit can speak through a ‘clean vehicle’. When the woman notes that devotion to craft differs from false perfectionism, Rupert agrees that devotion provides the energy to endure necessary challenges, as the fire that tests and hones an artist.

From event 09 - 16 March, 2025 Seven-Day Retreat at Mercy Center, 9–16 March 2025

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