Meaning: This quote by Lara John, a musician, reflects the experience of many individuals who have a natural inclination and passion for music from a very young age. In her statement, Lara John describes her lifelong connection to music, highlighting the fact that she began playing at the tender age of 2 and has never known a life without music. This profound attachment to music from early childhood has shaped her identity and her approach to playing.

Lara John's reference to playing "everything naturally and mostly by ear" is indicative of a natural musical talent and an intuitive understanding of music that has been ingrained in her from a very young age. This natural ability to grasp and interpret music without formal training is a characteristic often observed in prodigious musicians and can be a defining feature of their musical journey.

The frustration expressed in the latter part of the quote reflects the common experience of many young musicians who possess innate talent and creativity but are pushed towards a more structured and disciplined approach to learning music. The reference to "more scales and drudgery" speaks to the traditional methods of music education that often prioritize technical exercises and repetitive practice over creative expression and individual style. This tension between natural talent and the demands of formal music education is a recurring theme in the lives of many musicians and artists.

The quote also touches upon the dynamics of mentorship and guidance in the context of musical development. The "grownups" in Lara John's life, presumably her teachers or mentors, are portrayed as desiring "more scales and drudgery" from her, indicating a conflict between their expectations and her own intuitive, ear-based approach to music. This dissonance between the desires of authority figures and the inherent musical instincts of the individual can be a source of friction and disillusionment for many young musicians.

Furthermore, Lara John's words shed light on the broader societal attitudes towards creativity and talent. The pressure to conform to established norms and practices within the music industry and educational institutions can stifle the unique artistic expression of individuals like Lara John. The emphasis on technical proficiency and adherence to conventional methods can overshadow the raw creativity and originality that comes from an innate connection to music.

In summarizing Lara John's quote, it is evident that her words encapsulate the struggle and conflict experienced by many musicians who possess natural talent and creativity from a young age. The tension between intuitive musical expression and the structured demands of formal music education is a recurring theme in the lives of artists and underscores the importance of nurturing and celebrating individual creativity within the realm of music and the arts.

In conclusion, Lara John's quote resonates with the experiences of countless musicians who have grappled with the intersection of natural talent and formal music education. Her words serve as a testament to the profound impact of early exposure to music and the challenges of navigating the expectations of mentors and society while staying true to one's innate musical instincts and creativity. Ultimately, her quote invites reflection on the ways in which we nurture and support the artistic development of young musicians and encourages a reevaluation of traditional approaches to music education in order to embrace and celebrate individual musical expression and creativity.