Life is What You Make It: A Concert and Conversation with Peter Buffett

An author, composer, musician and producer, Peter Buffett is probably more recognized by his last name. He’s the son of investor Warren Buffett and he was just here in Albany. Playing at the Massry Center at the College of Saint Rose, Buffett performed a “Concert & Conversation” with cellist Michael Kott. The presentation was a musical combination of performance and discussion regarding love, family, work, money and living life. Brett and I were lucky enough to be invited to the event!

We were treated to a performance that explained the life of Peter Buffett. A true mid-western, (born in Omaha, Nebraska) Buffett graduated from a public high school before enrolling in Stanford University. After “taking every 101 or ‘ology’ class they offered,” Buffett left school to try his hand at music. The composer started writing music for commercials and was the sound behind a new little television channel called MTV. Remember those quick commercial spots?

Peter Buffett’s music made it to the silver screen after he met Kevin Costner. The actor was so impressed by Buffett’s talents, he asked him to score the fire dance scene in Dances with Wolves.

Buffett says his musical talent is in his blood. Growing up, his famous father played ukulele and mother sang. That musical talent has paid off! So far, he has released 15 records and now owns two independent labels, BeSide Records and BisonHead. Working with recording artists like Akon and Angelique Kidjo, he has collaborated to create human rights inspired songs.

Buffett’s book, Life Is What You Make It explores his beliefs of taking up the reins of your destiny and following passions over conventions. Answering questions from the audience during his presentation, he defined success as being “excited to get up…and create the day with enthusiasm.”

Brett & I really enjoyed Buffett’s performance and his message of transcending your circumstances. We thought it was cool Buffett said he had never let his last name determine his future, as his only real inheritance was his parent’s philosophy: forge your own path in life.

Hmm, forging your own path in life…that’s sort of what we’re doing up here in New York, right?

* Special thanks to Two Sheps That Pass for providing admission to Life is What You Make It: A Concert and Conversation with Peter Buffett. Thanks y’all!