“Joyful Noise”
Day 345, #2025bigyearproject
From my earliest memories, December meant musical performances.
When I was about four, my parents paid for choir robes so my little brother and I could sing with the children’s choir during the Christmas service. According to family lore, we sang with gusto all the way to church. Once it was time to stand in front of an audience, we both clammed up. This photo shows how uncertain I was about the whole thing.
Thank goodness I got over my stage fright!
As a pre-teen, I was one of the oldest, and tallest (imagine that!) in our Sunday School. I was the narrator for the Christmas pageant. We kids dressed in various costumes from around the world as part of the theme. I commend the parents who had to wrangle all of us energetic rascals.
My sister, cousins, and I were once part of an impromptu talent show. Our big extended family had gathered at my aunt and uncle’s home for Christmas. Our beloved Uncle Dave, who had been like a grandfather to all of us, had passed a week before. One of our favorite memories from that party was when each person had to share “What Christmas means to me.” I have no recollection of what I said. It was my first time to return home after leaving for college, so I probably talked about being back with my family. I hope I was kind! My cousin said that he liked the fireworks that used to add excitement to the day in the Philippines. It was his first holiday season in America. This celebration must have seemed tame in comparison.
Our family string quartet played often at church. Once I was away at school, we had to schedule performances during my breaks. That’s why my cello was on every flight back and forth. I was fortunate to have a sturdy wooden case. Too bad it did not have wheels, as my current one does.
My daughter joined me once she began playing the flute. Our church was great about welcoming musicians. She did not have any qualms about being in the limelight. I’m glad she is confident and poised.
As a professional cellist, this time of year used to keep me busy. From Christmas Eve to Christmas Day, I sometimes played in a couple of different venues and 4-5 services. I saw a lot of sunrises.
Although I miss hearing the sounds of instruments tuning, vocalists warming up, crowds buzzing, and applause coming in waves, I am content these days to take a busman’s holiday and sit in the audience.
May your holidays be enhanced by soul-stirring music!
#2025bigyearproject
