Music is a language that everyone can understand; it is an international medium with diverse meanings. Whatever one’s personality, there is always a musical style that suits.

As new genres and artists have flourished, music has proven not only to be a vessel of meaning and emotion, but also an effective way of expressing ideas and feelings.

Music is one of the truest forms of self-expression; there is a way to translate anything into song. What many students don’t know is that most of the administrators here are musicians.

            BHS counselor Charlie Dickey has a strong passion for music; in fact, he considers it his biggest hobby. Dickey plays a variety of string instruments such as the guitar.

“Music relieves my stress, and it’s a great form of creative expression,” Dickey said.

Dickey said that he first discovered his love for music from his great uncle, who played the harmonica on the radio in Mississippi. Mr. Dickey’s favorite styles include folk, blues, Americana, and bluegrass.

            “I love the sound, I love to play and write. I love the feel and the message in certain songs and styles. It’s creative and alive,” Dickey said.

            Vice-Principal Richard Joyer also considers himself to be a musician. Having been inspired by a friend, Joyer plays the drums in his spare time. He enjoys music for its entertainment value and believes music is an expression of one’s self. 

BHS’s other vice-principal Kay Keen, values music for its emotional and religious influence. While Keen does not play any instruments per se, she believes music enhances worship, gives inspirational messages, and can change moods. Her favorite styles consist of religious music such as hymns and Christian worship songs.

            “I know more about songs I sang in church as a young person and some contemporary Christian music than any other genre of music,” Keen said.

            Along with the administrators, there are several aspiring musicians among the BHS student body. Senior Dakota Wortman is incredibly passionate about music, and has always dreamt about becoming a successful musician.

Wortman plays not only the guitar, but also the drums, piano, and bass. He has strong opinions about the originality of modern mainstream music, and treasures older music with deeper roots.

“Music is a beautiful place to escape reality and it makes me feel alive and emotional,” Wortman said.

            From the beliefs and testimony of these people, music is clearly more than a form of entertainment; it is a universal force that can change lives and alter emotions.