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A musician who continues to shine and be active until the age of 60 - what is the secret of his long-lasting popularity?
Apr 5, 2025
In the world of music, it is not unusual for a musician to reach the age of 60 and still be active. In fact, for musicians, aging is not a decline in their careers, but rather an opportunity to gain maturity and to express themselves more deeply.
Of course, one must face physical decline and the changes of the times, but beyond overcoming these obstacles lies a unique music that is the product of experience and passion. In this column, I would like to consider the elements common to musicians who remain active at the forefront until age 60, and the secret to their long-lasting popularity, with an optimistic but realistic view.
1. "Depth of expression" increases with age.
Music is an art form that is greatly influenced not only by "technique" but also by "emotion" and "life experience. Even though vigorous performances may be appealing when young, the sensitivity cultivated through age gives music a rich depth.
For example, in the world of classical music, pianists Maurizio Pollini and Martha Argerich and violinist Itzhak Perlman, for example, have not diminished their expressive power even after the age of 60, but rather have added depth that fascinates listeners.
In the jazz world, Herbie Hancock, Keith Jarrett, and other masters of the art of improvisation have become more expressive and free as they have aged.
The shift from the passion of youth to the expression of mastery is one of the characteristics of musicians who have been loved for a long time.
2. not afraid to change and try new things
Many musicians who have been at the forefront of music for a long time have one thing in common: they are not afraid of change. It is important to be flexible enough to evolve one's musical style and try new genres while reading the trends of the times.
For example, in the fields of pop and rock, there are many artists such as Paul McCartney and Eric Clapton who have adopted new musical styles but have not lost their unique personalities.
Classical musicians, such as András Schiff and Daniel Barenboim, have also taken up conducting and challenged themselves with new repertoire to create a new appeal.
The secret to longevity is not to stick to "the way things have always been done," but to update one's musical expression in step with the times.
3. physical fitness and health management are also important skills
For musicians, "health care" is as important as performance skills. Musical instrument playing, in particular, is a physically demanding activity, and as one ages, one may face declining muscle strength and joint deterioration.
For example, violin and piano players are constantly stretching their fingers and wrists on a daily basis to maintain their flexibility. In addition, wind instrument players must maintain lung capacity and train the muscles around the mouth.
Jazz pianist Chick Corea's secret to his energetic playing, which continued until his later years, is said to have been "always taking care of your body. Classical guitarist John Williams pursued a comfortable playing form in order to continue playing for a long period of time.
He also took care of his body by exercising moderately, eating a well-balanced diet, and getting plenty of rest. By taking care of these things, it is possible to continue playing music well past the age of 60.
4. "I can keep going because I love it" - Passion for music
The most important thing is the "love of music. People who can continue to play music, regardless of age, are, above all, "having fun.
Musician Ennio Morricone, a master of film music, continued composing music even after he reached the age of 90. One of his most impressive words is, "Making music is my joy, not a job, but a way of life.
Blues guitarist B.B. King also continued to tour throughout his life, saying, "If I stop playing music, it will be the end of me.
Music is a career that can continue regardless of age, and one that can be enjoyed throughout one's life. The biggest secret to staying active beyond the age of 60 may be to keep the "love" in your heart.
Summary: Music lasts a lifetime! The older you get, the more you appreciate it.
Musicians who remain active even after reaching the age of 60 have several things in common.
♦ Deepen their musical expression as they age
They are not afraid to change and try new things.
◆ Value physical fitness and health care
◆ Above all, they maintain their "love of music.
In the world of music, age is never a "limit. Rather, there is music that can only be created by getting older, and there are many listeners who look forward to it.
Even if you are over 60 or 70 years old, you can remain active as long as you love music. Such a wonderful world is spreading before our eyes!

