Yesterday I was outside Berklee waiting for the listening session to start and a couple yards away I spotted one of my former instructors speaking to a summer student. I watched her face, and mannerisms. I watched the student too, she was looking up at the instructor with so much respect and admiration, I could see the same feelings reflected back to the young student from the instructor. I couldn't hear their words but the tone was bubbling and happy. It was beautiful to watch because that same instructor had drawn out that same smile and energy from me numerous times. They said their goodbyes and parted ways, the instructor turned around and saw me smiling at her I said "Hey Darcel!" and she responded "OH MY GOD ALEXIA!!" and embraced me.
I was Darcel Wilson's student 17 years ago in the early years of City Music when we still called it SYSTEM-5. I was one of many vocalists in her ensemble, and far from the strongest one. I would spend the next 17 years graduating from CRLS, participating in SYSTEM-5 and 5 Week, and then the long and winding 13.5 year path to graduation from Berklee. Darcel has taught THOUSANDS of students over the years but she remembered me when I was absolutely certain she wouldn't. My heart boomed. I wanted to cry tears of... I don't know... joy? Recognition? Realness? (but obvs I didn't because mascara, duh!)
Berklee is a bustling place, it can feel like a revolving door. If you aren't a part of Singer's Showcase, it feels like you are nobody. Seeing Darcel reminded me I am one of thousands, but I AM ONE. I was not and am not invisible. Life really isn't about "who you know", but who knows you, and I needed that.
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