Music functions as a motif representing The Need for Connection and Belonging. Aaron is the novel’s most musically skilled character, and music is closely tied to his sense of belonging. His beloved late grandmother taught him how to play the piano, and making music helps him feel close to his biological mother, even though they have been separated for years: “Sometimes when I practice, I imagine Mom’s right next to me listening” (142). When Aaron first comes to the island, he tells Tess that he doesn’t “like to play for other people” (19). This statement reflects the guarded boy’s initial focus on using music to hold onto his connections to his distant biological family members rather than to build a sense of belonging with his new foster family and community. In addition, his declaration that he “hate[s] playing what other people want” connects to his previous negative experiences that make him feel as if “everyone expects [him] to be someone [he’s] not” (90, 97). Aaron’s love of jazz and musical improvisation reflects his need to be accepted for who he is in order to find belonging and thrive.

As the story unfolds, Aaron gradually uses music to forge new connections and cultivate a sense of belonging on Bethsaida. Tess recognizes that her foster brother’s musical ability can help him find his place as a member of the community, and his performances at the Fourth of July picnic and the talent show help the other islanders better understand and appreciate him. Although these events are complicated by Eben’s bullying and Natalie’s disapproval of Ms. Spinney’s visit, they offer important opportunities for Aaron to receive positive recognition for his abilities and self-expression.

Near the end of the novel, he plays his trumpet for his biological mother after he finally expresses the pain and anger he feels because of her actions. His “strange and brave and wonderful” song signals that he still wants to hold onto his connection with his mother, even though their relationship is complicated (174). The thematic importance of music is further emphasized when Tess and her family discover that Aaron has chosen to stay on the island through his decision to become the new church organist, a decision that affirms the sense of belonging he has cultivated with his foster family and the island community as a whole. The motif of music traces Aaron’s journey to find a place he belongs and demonstrates art’s power to connect people.