If you have ever questioned the power of music to influence individuals' lives and to shape our society as a whole, your doubts will be erased upon reading this book. Each story is unique and personal, but the over-arching truth is that the pursuit of excellence in music makes a profound difference in people's lives. Through the exquisite photographs, you can see into each person's soul. Through the intimate and revealing personal statements, you can feel the pulse of each subject's heart. After just a short encounter you will know what makes that person who he or she is. As the fine arts continue to struggle for recognition in our educational system, the material contained within these pages is a timely testament to the importance and validity of music to make a positive and profound difference in the world we inhabit.