marcoujor: Classical Memories

​Recently a friend asked me if I enjoyed classical music. I answered her simply with a 'yes', as I honestly enjoy 95% of the music I'm exposed to.

Her question got me thinking about all kinds of things, from my childhood to this Christmas season that I acknowledge is upon us.

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My childhood

Dad and I

I took piano lessons for about four years in grade school. I was drawn to this instrument as my sister, ten years my senior, was/is an accomplished musician. It was her piano that I practiced and played on.

Dad was proud of all his children for different reasons. He loved my sister's gift with the piano, especially classical music. Looking back, I'm sure he convinced himself I would be as accomplished. Alas, this was not to be the case.

Don't get me wrong, I loved the piano. I loved and still love music. Even at the age of eight, I enjoyed all musical genres and could never imagine limiting myself to one style. I loved playing (and singing) show tunes (from My Fair Lady) and popular songs (by The Monkees and The Partridge Family). Mixed in was a bit of classical music, however, it was not a passion of mine at the time.

​My music teacher, Sister Fastidious, and my Dad were equally dismayed when I selected the theme song from Born Free as my contest entry for the music show. This rendition is not yours truly, but may give you an idea why this was a winner to me, although not even a runner up in my music contest.

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​About twenty years later, my (now) husband and I were planning the music for our wedding ceremony. Geoff asked me to consider The Prince of Denmark's March. I readily agreed, falling back in love with classical music after my childhood musical detour.

My music library is now filled with a wide variety of classical music, a natural accompaniment to dinners, visits and relaxing in general.
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​Christmas is here!

Through this Fall 2016 semester, I worked with 59 young men and women in their behavioral health clinical rotation, the future of the Nursing profession.  I encourage my students to take time for themselves each day and to develop hobbies and self-care practices that are suited and interesting to them, especially as they finish up papers and finals for the semester.

Hoping this beautiful collection of music will promote perspective, reflection and mindfulness of this holy day, now less than two weeks away. May my students have magical moments with loved ones and time to rejuvenate over Christmas break. ​

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ShoutOuts

☙ Vinegar & Brown Paper? Via WarnerWords

☙ Jest call me melancholy via Horse Biscuits

​☙ Angels & Soldiers via flashPress

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Until next week, wishing you all peace and joy,

mar