Generational Music

As I was growing up, my household was firmly rooted in classical music, Broadway music and old Irish tunes. When my sister and I wanted to listen to "our" music, we were pretty much told that we couldn't listen as long as parents were around who might hear it also. Yes, this was BEFORE the days of the walkman, the MP3 player, and personal listening devices of any kind. I grew up really out of the loop, so to speak, of modern music evolution. Basically, I was behind the times, and my kids would probably say that hasn't changed! So I tried to make sure I didn't put a damper on THEIR listening. I guess that is what drives my music. It's a real mix - some country ("garbage"), soft rock ("filth"), gospel, tributes, novelty, show tune type, choir music, lots of harmonies, odd chords and things that defy classification. I like it all, and there is something for most everyone. If you click on my "links" tab, it will take you to not only my own cds and videos, but also those of my son, Seth, who does more hard rock, alternative, soft rock, and so on. He also cut his teeth on classical, peppered with Pearl Jam and Pink Floyd. Out of it all, those links will really provide something for everyone. Check them out, and just enjoy.

Silent Learning

What a joy it is to be surrounded by so many talented people - musicians, artists, seamstresses, incredible cooks, quilters, remodelers, car builders (wink, wink), and I could go on and on. As each friend or family member discovers something new that they love to do, I learn so much from them! Seeing how someone else has put aside their dreams and finally picked them up again, or maybe they never let go and just pushed forward, I learn about "silent learning". It seems that even when we are not actively honing our craft, we are learning and tucking things away within us for future reference. That song someone wrote today, started 10 years ago in a situation they might rather forget. But it simmers over the years, and suddenly it is a terrific song. The memory of a place or time gone by hovers in the memory of an artist who puts all of that emotion into incredible colors on canvas or a photograph that betrays a heart. We learn because we live. You teach me because you create. You inspire me because you love and you live every day to its fullest. I want to be just like you when I grow up!