When it comes to the arts, we can feel quite daunted.
I recently went for the third time to see the Opus Orchestra in Tauranga. This incredible orchestra tours around the regions of New Zealand that are often deprived of such performances.
This most recent concert focused on the work of Mozart and Sibelius. Most of us will have heard of Mozart, only a few will know Sibelius. Many of us will know little of the intricacies of such classical music. But most would enjoy such a concert if we attended at least once.
I say this because the Opus Orchestra had to cancel its last tour of the year because of a lack of funding. Most of its income comes from private donors, the business community and local government. After the concert I pondered why it's not supported sufficiently.
One of the reasons, and one that we can impact, is a perceived lack of accessibility and understanding of classical and orchestral music. Let's face it, it's not as popular as it used to be, and it can seem like part of another, rarefied world.
I myself know nothing about classical music, instruments or orchestras, but I had a deep emotional response to the music. I didn't know what each piece was that the orchestra was playing, unless I looked at the programme, and to be frank, to me it mattered very little. What mattered was that I felt affected by it.
I do believe more people would attend such events if they didn't feel daunted or mystified by it. I'm certainly not saying that the Opus Orchestra makes anyone feel intimated - the people involved are wonderful, warm and passionate about their art. I just believe that most people feel they can't or shouldn't attend such performances unless they understand or know something intimate about the art.
Regardless of how big or small our knowledge of orchestral performances, most of us would feel moved in some way by the Opus Orchestra. Feeling inspired or moved doesn't need explanation, especially when it comes to art. Art is about a personal response, a subjective feeling that's stirred within. Whether that's by music, a painting or a carving. We don't need to have any prior knowledge to appreciate such things. We just need to be open to them and their ability to change us in some way.
Imagine if we took our children to Opus Orchestra next time it comes. This would open up a whole new world to those little receptive and excited ears. Even if as adults we believe we're not into such things, surely we have a duty to show our children what's possible. Children are unconditioned by the world, their imaginations haven't yet been beaten out of them by life, and so I believe art has an even more raw affect on their minds and souls.
My fear too is that unless we get out there and attend these art events, we're in grave danger of losing them altogether. And I think that would be a tragedy. So next time Opus or something similar comes to town, think about taking the plunge and giving it a try.
Natalie Bridges is director of Tauranga communications agency, Blink Public Relations