by Martha Coffin Evans
During this season of gift giving, it’s worth pausing to realize some of the most precious ones come without wrapping paper. Gift lists identify “things” as well as experiences. Some items have the potential to provide long lasting memories.
Tickets to musicals, concerts, or even frequent holiday favorites become requested list items. Season subscriptions to cultural events and museums appear on wish lists. Holiday festivals often feature music from various traditions and countries thus expanding our cultural awareness.
Not too long ago, several former graduate students decided to give a surprise House Concert for their work colleague who was dealing with declining health. Their little recital in her living room featured vocal selections, some accompanied by the flute and others, the cello. Friends attending this small gathering were occasionally encouraged to sing along and to request favorite selections.
“Would you like more music or should we stop for snacks,” one queried. “Snacks” was the quick reply. Soon plates were filled with savories and sweets accompanied by a cup of tea. Following that brief repast, the music continued a little longer with more singing. A friend’s young daughter joyfully danced along to the music.
What a beautiful, melodic gift to everyone there. The smile on the honoree’s face said it all!
A recent rededication of a fully restored 1888 Roosevelt Company’s organ brought another opportunity for a musical gift. Originally installed in a local church in 1960, this instrument was dedicated in memory of the family’s matriarch. An organist herself, her family remember hearing her comment, “I used to play that piece.”
In further sharing the joy in hearing the organ’s return after its 18 month absence for repair, the music director invited the young children to come see it closer. They had the opportunity to hear the sound of several stops like the trumpet, piccolo, oboe and chimes along with its varying volume.
This holiday season, why not save the paper and ribbons by giving unwrapped gifts. Long after they become lost or broken, the musical ones linger after the last notes fade.
~ Martha (Marty) Coffin Evans, Ed.D, is a freelance writer with MACE Associates, LLC. She can be reached at itsmemartee@aol.com