The first time I encountered the writings of Walter Schuermans, I felt as if something deep and forgotten resonated within myself. He belongs to that exceedingly small number of people who are attempting to restore the broken link between music and spirituality - or, even better, between music and humanity. He knows that music expresses the whole human person and that, to understand music, we first need to embrace the human being as a whole. Hence, his sensational breadth of culture and interests, from Zen philosophy to Anthroposophy to traditional Eastern medicine, all linked together towards a greater understanding of the human being and, consequently, of the musician. His writings are like a fresh rediscovery of the most profound truths: from the true essence of music-making, resorted to a dimension of purity, origin, and innocence, to the spiritual treasures hidden in the music of the great composers, which

he can uncover in a few, elegant sentences - as it is evident in his series of articles on Beethoven. I cannot imagine a better guide and mentor for a young, developing artist. His words are like seeds planted in one's inner space; if listened to with quietude, they germinate, elevate the soul, and indicate the way.

Walter Schuermans is a most splendid example of a true teacher and true pedagogue; his words are light amidst the darkness and confusion of our times.