Time and a TED Talk

I have to say that giving a TED Talk was a truly awesome experience. I was honored to be invited to present my ideas before such a remarkable group of people. The energy in the room was incredible and shifted dynamically between each presenter. From local farming to alternative education to my talk on music and the perception of time, each segment was vastly different but connected by the common thread of innovative thinkers and doers making a positive impact here in the state of Maine.

Photo courtesy of Michael Eric Berube

When I was invited to present at TEDx Dirigo: ENGAGE (at Hannaford Hall, USM in Portland) on May 19th, I knew immediately what I wanted to talk about - our perceptions of time when we play music.  Although I must admit, I struggled for a while to articulate my thoughts and figure out how to present it in an effective way. I knew what I wanted to say, but I realized I had more work to do when I attempted to share the concept over dinner with close friends and was met with quizzical stares. This is never a good sign. The fact that I had three days to work it out before the big day was daunting to say the least. 

I realized I had to let go of my desire to spend time talking about Heisenberg and Einstein, and put more focus on connecting with my audience in a more conversational and personal way. I had 18 minutes of time to fill and I felt a responsibility to be engaging, entertaining and make an impact.

Photo courtesy of Michael Eric Berube

I had full days of recording sessions with PARMA scheduled before the actual conference, so I took advantage of some long drive time to refine my thoughts and practice my talk. On the morning of the big event, with my wife on the couch, stop watch in hand, I had my “ah-ha” moment. While demonstrating rhythmic playing with my violin, I went on to explain those immersive moments when, as a musician, one feels past, present and future simultaneously. I had been laboring for days trying to describe this phenomenon, and suddenly, thankfully, with only a half an hour to spare, it became clear. 

Photo courtesy of Michael Eric Berube

Another segment of my talk centered around the happiness we feel when playing music with other people, and a select group of my students from 317 Main Street Music Center, as well as a few of my Scarborough students helped me to demonstrate this point with a live performance during my talk. They were as nervous as I, but they rose to the challenge beautifully. I couldn’t be more proud and thankful for their support and commitment. 

Photo courtesy of Michael Eric Berube

I have performed on many stages, from Gillette Stadium to CBGB’s to live TV, and been mostly unfazed. But this was different. There I was, waiting in the wings for my introduction, with my Star Trek headset tucked into my shirt and my thoughts spinning. It was now or never. I heard my name, walked to the stage and time slowed down. In those blurry moments when I walked up on stage, I experienced exactly what I was there to talk about: synchronicity and the perception of time.

Photo courtesy of Michael Eric Berube