Insights and information
about music, brain health, aging, and much more.
Kindness
This is one of my two favorite t-shirts (the other has a dog and a cat sitting side-by side, under the word “Peace”). When I wear it, it gets its share of smiles and even the occasional comment – usually something like “Yeah, random acts of kindness!”. But no one...
Why Feelings Matter in Performing
My father of blessed memory was not the most emotional guy in the world. Nevertheless, he would almost invariably cry at hearing a beautiful piece of music. I think I learned from watching him (and hearing him play the piano, which he did with exquisite care) that...
Friendship in Older Adults
I recently flew up to Minnesota for a long girlfriend weekend with my best friend, Kate. My family and friends joke that her name is actually My Best Friend Kate because I never refer to her any other way. MBF Kate and I have been friends since graduate school,...
Inside a Composer’s Brain
One of the most fun parts of my job is selecting repertoire for our older-adult choirs to perform. I do this three times a year—with Linda Powell on our spring and fall sessions, and with Sandy on music for Summer Rocks. Those of you in the current session are now...
His Eye is on the Sparrow
The Sounds Good Choirs and the Good Memories Choir are busy rehearsing a program of uplifting music, called "Overflowing Hearts," for our upcoming concerts in April and May. There’s a line in one of our songs, “I Sing Because I’m Happy,” that has sparked the curiosity...
Seeing That Bean, Singing That Phrase
Those of you who have read some of my previous blogposts are aware of my passion for the challenge of staying present and attentive. Perhaps my zeal for the topic exists since I am generally in need of improvement in that department. In any case, here is a little...