This month I want to draw your attention to the music appreciation sessions that happen every Thursday night (with rare exception) live from my dining room table. By my most recent count, this month we will hit our thirtieth session since the middle of March, when it seemed like something fun to do for a few weeks. Haha. For comparison, a college course usually encompasses about twenty-five hours of instruction per semester.
The sessions require no previous musical education or ability. Just look at Ellie Kell, with what I believe is perfect attendance since spring, in spite of having told me that she used to have trouble getting a foothold into music. I use Ellie as an example because she is not a member of the choir and does not play instruments. While I certainly welcome additional musicians, I’m so excited to be seeing proof that music is for listeners as much as creators. Every week we have score study opportunities, instructions for richer listening, and a variety of intriguing videos that help us to better visualize what we are hearing. Part of the tradition is that I don’t tell people the topic in advance, partially because the ideas come to me rather spontaneously in the days leading into each session, but more importantly it also allows us to enter the room with a blank slate, free from forethought. But I will tease this month’s lineup just for you. It will include a popular December choral work and the most notable Christmas orchestral piece. Won’t you join me, Thursdays at 6:30 p.m.? After coming just once, I will add you to the list that I email when I need to make a cancellation. I plan to run December 3, 10, and 17.
Hoping to see you there!
Rick Seaholm