I was very moved by Anthony Braxton’s acceptance speech at the NEA Jazz Master ceremony. Braxton was clear, compelling and compassionate in the telling of his story; a thoroughly fascinating and deep down journey through his inspirations, musical influences and the ups and downs, ins and outs, of a life spent marching to many different beats. Then, he went further, passionately expressing his desire to end the divisiveness in the music world and in society. Braxton made a passionate, informed and intelligent plea for acceptance, inclusion, and the necessity for exploration and expansion within all musical forms to keep music alive, growing and vital. It is of the utmost importance that the myriad of individual voices of musicians and composers are allowed to flourish, be welcomed in, to add to the continuum and history of American music and art in and around the world. Discovering, maintaining and nurturing one’s unique and personal identity and the sharing of creative spirit is the foundation and heart of all quality music irrespective of category. Thank you so very much for your music and soul. Congratulations Anthony!