Hello Friends of Parlando,   

 

Throughout history, music has been used to enhance experiences, communicate emotion and describe the human character.  American music has been no different: From the penning of the Star Spangled Banner in 1814 during the War of 1812, to slaves using music to pass messages to one another, to George Gershwin's Rhapsody in Blue describing New York City's melting pot at the beginning of the 20th century, to Aaron Copland's depiction of Americana and the wide-open frontier in Appalachian Spring, to the popular songs of the last 40 years that have become anthems to the generations who have identified with their lyrics, to the music that so rapidly brings images of motion pictures to our minds, music is the literal and figurative soundtrack of our lives.  We use it to express ourselves, understand our time and define our values and pride.

 

When I hear meaningful music, I can't help but get caught up in it.  I get teary every time I hear and sing our national anthem.  It is something that I cannot express fully in words, but something that music conveys without effort.

 

Music is a human value.  American music is a patriotic expression.  And freedom is a universal desire.  The mission of Parlando touches on all of these themes: To be Colorado's premier arts school where people of all ages and abilities come together to share the language of music and the arts.

 

On September 21st, Christine and I will be opening our home to lovers of music and supporters of music education.  We will feature piano students from Parlando, celebrate with food and drink and raise funds for our life-changing programming.  Then, Christine, Dr. Emily Book McGree and Dr. Eneida Larti will join me in honoring today, Patriot's Day, the 11th of September, as we perform a two-piano, four-person, eight-hand version of the Stars and Stripes Forever.  If you would like to attend, please contact me directly for more information.

The main chorus of John Philip Sousa's 1897 composition, The Stars and Stripes Forever, reads:

Hurrah for the flag of the free.
May it wave as our standard forever
The gem of the land and the sea,
The banner of the right.
Let despots remember the day
When our fathers with mighty endeavor
Proclaimed as they marched to the fray,
That by their might and by their right
It waves forever.

Music is a powerful force.  I hope you'll join us on September 21st to strengthen Parlando's ability to bring more music into the lives of ALL members of our community.

    

Best,