I have always felt it is important to have some kind of musical outlet available, so I made sure each of my children took piano lessons and learned to play another instrument.
My daughter did better than I imagined with the piano, but did not take to the clarinet at all.
My middle son excelled at nearly everything he attempted and even had a double major including performance in college.
My youngest son stuck with the piano and earned a gold cup in competition, then went on to play the trombone. He played that trombone with gusto and had the best decorated instrument in the junior high Christmas concert, but he appeared to be rather tone deaf.
It never stopped him, though.
As an adult he taught himself guitar and even played songs in public that he wrote for his wife twice. He met me in Knoxville, Tennessee and played (and sang) Will you still need me when I'm 64 for my 64th birthday. It was so sweet, it melted my heart.
His wife represents musicians and he has played with many of them at social gatherings. I have always admired his enthusiasm, but never been overwhelmed by his voice.
Until today!
Today he called and sang and played for over an hour and a half for me and he was magnificent. I'm not sure what happened, but he has found his voice! Playing covers and even his own work, he entertained me and left me stunned.
The guitar was strummed, picked and plucked in the most wonderful ways and his voice rang true throughout the morning. He says he thinks it's easier to play over the phone. I think it is unimaginable how much better he is after all these years. I would go to a concert if he gave one and never believe this was the same little boy who played his trombone like a flat kazoo.
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