Keynote Address by Doctor Noize
This Keynote Address is adapted from an assembly speech I was invited to give at Pinewood School in California, where I was the Arts, Communications & Technology Department Head, Music Teacher, and Varsity Boys Soccer Coach. The speech turned out to be one of the most impactful things I ever did -- many kindly contacted me about its influence on them over the years -- so I began making it the final lecture of my required freshman course on Music History. Now I offer it as a Doctor Noize Keynote Address and discussion -- for adults, kids, or both. Sometimes I cut Chapters 4 and 5 for a slightly shorter speech.
I've decided to offer Demystifying Excellence here online for anyone looking for a little philosophical kick in their life. There are 13 Chapters below, matching the number I always wore as a competitive soccer player. (I chose it because 13 is allegedly an unlucky number, and I didn't want my success to have anything to do with luck.) Each chapter is a page or less. If that seems long to you, I shudder at the anxiety you must feel when presented with a book. Contrary to conventional internet-world wisdom, sometimes there is no shortcut to measured philosophy or excellence. Quality and purpose do not always come in two-minute blasts.
If the world's catchiest pop song or a motivational catch phrase is the pinnacle of modern art and expression to you, the good news is: You've got company! The bad news is you're not the target audience of this address.
I hope you enjoy Demystifying Excellence, and it inspires you to bring meaning and purpose into your life.
Yer buddy for life,
Doctor Noize
Read the first Chapter -> The Cast Who Shaped My Story.
Or skip to individual Chapters with the Table Of Contents.