Musical Notes and Thoughts

Gary Karr. Gary just passed away yesterday, on July 16, at the age of 83. There were few individuals who have had his impact in the world of classical music over the last several decades. Few have led such a dazzling life. Starting from a young age, he would become known as an international soloist on an instrument that had historically languished in obscurity: the double-bass. All told, he would release about 90 recordings.

His technique was light-years ahead of anyone else at the time. He was a pioneer, pointing the way for many future double-bassists. He gave recitals and master classes all over the world. He performing as a soloist with numerous orchestras. I had the opportunity to attend a few of his recitals and concerts, and during my college days to participate in some of those master classes. He was practically revered in Japan, where he arguably had his greatest and most devoted following.

But…

He was a well-known atheist. Barring a personal major change of heart before his death, he is now eternally separated from God. All the accolades, the fame, his musical giftedness that was given to him by God (the God he did not acknowledge); those are now past, and he is now not only facing, but is in, a bleak eternity, an eternity of his own choosing.

Matthew 16:26 comes to mind. Jesus states: “For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul? (NAU)

There was a time that I was part of that double-bass world, albeit on the fringe as my level of talent was nowhere close to Gary’s level or that of numerous current soloists that have followed in his footsteps. Due to current studies and the ongoing writing project, it has been months since I have even touched the double-bass (that probably needs to change).

On the other hand, in some of the YouTube videos of rising performers I have seen, I find the level of self-absorption saddening. If I think back, there were times I was also there. We easily lose sight of—assuming we have even acknowledged it in the first place—that everything we possess, every ability that we have, is a gift that God has given us. There is truly no room for boasting on any level. Even the ability to learn a skill is God’s gift to us.

In thinking about Gary, a question comes to mind. Are we so focused on enjoying life on this earth, that we neglect to attend to the reality of eternity? As Jesus indicates through his question, there is nothing on this earth that is worth the loss of our eternal souls. It is only through faith in Jesus Christ does one have a positive eternal future.

What is our life focus? Do we need to repent, to make changes?