Natalie Hodges

A virtuosic debut from a gifted violinist searching for a new mode of artistic becoming

A Journey Through Music, Performance, and the Science of Time

Uncommon Measure

Do we live in time, or does time live in us?

What a fascinating read! I discovered this book through Libby’s Big Library Read and had a great time listening to it. I really enjoyed the author’s writing style where she combines several different topics. Through this narrative she gives us an insight into the commitment and devotion it requires to excel at something, the performance anxiety, improvisation, career ambitions, identity, and how these topics intersect with each other. The exploration of space, time, and experience throughout the book is beautifully portrayed. I really like how the author describes her mother and her relationship with her. When Natalie asked her "When you quit (violin her senior year in High School)...how did you know?" She said, "I think you just know, if and when it is time. For you, the important thing is that you don't regret and the important thing is that you choose." This is such grounded and solid advice. It is impactful and it’s one of those things that stays with you. It takes courage and a lot of conviction to quit something you have considered to be a dream for a long time. Decisively letting go of a dream is an act of courage, and should not bring you regret. Overall, this was an enjoyable and thought-provoking read. Would certainly recommend it!

Devika M

Do we live in time, or does time live in us?

What a fascinating read! I discovered this book through Libby’s Big Library Read and had a great time listening to it. I really enjoyed the author’s writing style where she combines several different topics. Through this narrative she gives us an insight into the commitment and devotion it requires to excel at something, the performance anxiety, improvisation, career ambitions, identity, and how these topics intersect with each other. The exploration of space, time, and experience throughout the book is beautifully portrayed. I really like how the author describes her mother and her relationship with her. When Natalie asked her "When you quit (violin her senior year in High School)...how did you know?" She said, "I think you just know, if and when it is time. For you, the important thing is that you don't regret and the important thing is that you choose." This is such grounded and solid advice. It is impactful and it’s one of those things that stays with you. It takes courage and a lot of conviction to quit something you have considered to be a dream for a long time. Decisively letting go of a dream is an act of courage, and should not bring you regret. Overall, this was an enjoyable and thought-provoking read. Would certainly recommend it!

Uncommon Measure A Journey Through Music, Performance, and the Science of Time

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