Saturday, December 14, 2013

Music Speaks to All of Us!

When I was younger and experiencing my parents' divorce, I turned to music as an outlet and a talent that I was able to excel in.  I started to play the violin in 4th grade and continued through my freshman year in college.  I also sang in the chorus throughout my school years and continue to this day singing in church choirs and my classroom.  Music can be soothing, empowering and help us to connect to each other in ways that are unimaginable. 

We acquired a piano two years ago from an auction.  I have always wanted a piano and my children were wanting one as well.  Although I have never had formal piano lessons, I can plunk out notes being able to read music.  My oldest daughter has taught herself to play with both hands in both keys with the foot pedals.  My husband, who did not want the burden of having a piano, has even sat down to play and has expressed to me how much he loves listening to our children play.  In our house, our motto with our children is "Music is not an option, it is a required field."

Music is one of the best gifts you can share with someone!  So in the spirit of giving, I give you the music video below which is entitled "Imagine" redone by Playing for Change with clips from John Lennon.  Playing for Change is an organization created by musicians all over the world making music together by breaking down barriers, such as distance and prejudices, that separate us.  Playing for Change hopes to bring more music into the world by bringing music and instruments to children everywhere.  Playing for Change sees the value of music as a way to inspire peace, encourage others to celebrate diversity, and share commonalities.  I hope that you enjoy the video but also check out the Playing for Change website.  I hope that when you find out what musical talents you possess, you share your gifts with the world!    

Playing for Change website:  http://www.playingforchange.com/about/





 
References
 
Playing for Change. (2010).  Imagine.  Retrieved from http://www.youtube.com/watch?
 
          v=bvFLKyAGzzI
 
 


3 comments:

  1. It sounds like music has always been a big part of our life. People express their thoughts, feelings and emotions in different ways, and music is ours.My brother played the piano for years and he was extremely talented as well. Now at 20 years old, he is a member of 2 different bands and playing many different instruments that he taught himself to play. Great job and I loved the music video.

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  2. Nicolette,

    I really enjoyed the video. I have never heard of this site. Thanks so much for sharing. It seems like music is a big part of your life. I too love music. It can most certainly be soothing. Music has helped me get through some rough days. I started taking piano lessons, but I quit. It was of the things that I regret, maybe one day I'll get the motivation to take it up again. Thanks so much for sharing! As always, I enjoyed!

    Amber

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  3. Nicolette-

    Thank you for introducing us to Playing for Change. What a great organization, in a time when a lot of music programs are being cut in schools across the nation. I too believe that music can do wonders, especially with our little ones. I love to play classical music during rest time and quiet writing time. Great job this week!

    -Melanie

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