Do I have to change everything to become a Muslim?

The Details of the Question

I love Islam but...
I love playing jazz, I have been practicing every day for years. I love classical concerts and jazz concerts. I also carve stone and wood, make animal and human figurines. I am from Italy and I grew up drinking wine with my meals. I love it too. I love Latin Salsa dance. All this is an inseparable part of my identity. If I have to give up all that to become a Muslim, Islam is not for me. I want to stay in Islam!!! But not if I have to stop doing the great things I love. I am 70 years old and I am not about to change all that. Do I have to change everything to become a Muslim? If I do, I will be very disappointed because I love Islam... but not at the expense of my identity. Please let me know. I have fasted in Ramadan so far.

The Answer

Dear Brother / Sister,

Become a Muslim without delaying. The possibility of sinning must never prevent you from becoming a Muslim.

Stop drinking wine (alcoholic drinks and intoxicating, narcotic substances) immediately if you can, otherwise over time.

You can do the other things you have listed as a Muslim, without being against the Islamic faith, rules and ethics.

Painting and sculpture must not be obscene, and there must be no worshipped images or figures.

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