LINDSEY BOERMA
Living Assistant
For serious and professional guitar players, the accomplishments of world-renowned, two-time Grammy-nominated classical guitarist Christopher Parkening are anything but news. Yet, with his recently published autobiography entitled “Grace Like a River,” Parkening has found a new medium of expression, and anyone wishing to learn more about the current Pepperdine professor of music can ‘listen in’ to follow him through his life journey.
“Grace Like a River” outlines not only the trials and tribulations he has faced on his way to success but also his discovery of true spiritual fulfillment. Tyndale House Publishers released the book in June. The book can be purchased at retailers such as Borders, Barnes & Noble and Amazon. The list price is $19.99.
“I wrote ‘Grace Like a River’ with a three-fold purpose,” Parkening said. “One was to inspire and encourage musicians, two was to tell of God’s grace in my life and three was to share my journey of faith. I have had a wonderful career with the guitar and so many different experiences where God was very gracious to me that when the Tyndale Press said that I should write a book, I said ‘OK.’”
Parkening’s ultimate mission of teaching young musicians to use their talents for God resounds not only in his book, but also in his everyday life.
“I desire to glorify the Lord with whatever talent and ability God has given me, and I want to inspire younger musicians to do the same,” said Parkening, who has been playing the guitar since he was 11 years old.
His goal to motivate younger generations may have already been achieved. Brandon Jones, an adjunct guitar teacher at Pepperdine and former student of Parkening, expressed his appreciation of having the chance to work with him.
“I studied with him as a private student, and it was a phenomenal experience,” Jones said. “I grew up listening to his music, and he was actually my main inspiration for the guitar. He has such a commitment to excellence that there are expectations that you have to set for yourself.”
This “commitment to excellence” is what Parkening is all about. Every day, as he sits down to practice, a note on his music stand greets him that reads, “Chris, what are you here for?”
“I think the note is a great reminder,” Parkening explained. “Self-discipline is the bridge between thought and accomplishment that binds inspiration to achievement. It has helped me for years to play my instrument as best I can.”
Parkening places much emphasis on the pursuit of excellence in “Grace Like a River.” One chapter, entitled “Success,” discusses the often-competing ideals of achieving success versus achieving excellence. The chapter, which talks about the emotionally and physically draining experience of being on tour, exemplifies his mission to tell future musicians of the struggles and trials that lead to the achievement of success and excellence.
While the book primarily works to inspire musicians musically and spiritually, it also offers a glance into other aspects of Parkening’s life. One of these aspects is Parkening’s love for fishing. In addition to being a famous musician, he is also a fly-fishing and casting champion and has won the International Gold Cup Tarpon Tournament, often referred to as the Wimbledon or World Series of tarpon fishing. He includes a fishing story from his life experiences after every chapter of “Grace Like a River.”
Parkening also writes about his family — how he met his wife, the birth of their son Luke, now two-and-a-half years old, and their experiences together.
These various components of his life work throughout the book to add a personal touch. In fact, at the end of the book is a chapter called “Reflections,” which includes his favorite Bible verses, notes from the margins of his Bible and questions he has had regarding his faith.
“I included things that have helped me in my walk as a Christian — things that have guided me and helped to shape my life,” Parkening said. “I hope it to be a blessing for those who read it.”
With the inspiration and personal experience behind the writing of the book, it has undoubtedly been “a blessing” for many who have read it, including his former student.
“It’s written so well and he’s just so honest,” Jones said. “It’s really inspiring to see doors open up for him in his life throughout the book.”
While many would attribute Parkening’s success to his strong sense of self-discipline and talent, his inspirations such as Andres Segovia also played a role. Now, through the motivational story of his pathway to both personal and spiritual success, Parkening has become an inspiration to others as well.
“It’s about being the best you can be with the ultimate purpose of glorifying God with whatever talent or ability he’s given you,” Parkening said. “Encouraging young musicians to do that is really the main purpose of the book.”
In “Grace Like a River,” Parkening states: “I have come to believe that it is vital to pursue personal excellence based on your own God-given potential, rather than success.” No other statement could so perfectly define Parkening, an inspiration to both musicians and non-musicians alike.
10-26-2006
