Why Music Matters
I have been thinking about why music matters.
I have been thinking about the world of hard edges, steep climbs, and too many clinched fists. I have been thinking about connection, escape, and roots. I have been thinking about rhythm, harmony, and tone.
When I was a child, music was my refuge.
I would sit for hours listening to my bright yellow 8 track tape player and sing at the top of my lungs. I did not mind no one was listening. Joy needs no audience. Simple freedom wrapped in a melody was all that mattered. A stage soon amplified my still small voice. I started taking lessons. Voice. Piano. Fiddle. I started singing in choirs. I studied. I practiced. I performed. What I knew for sure was nothing could quiet my soul when I connected with music. I was fully alive.
Music Memories
I am sure I am not the only person who can recall memories inspired by music: your first dance, your first vinyl record, your college fight song, your national anthem, your favorite church hymn. I can still hear my grandfather’s deep voice croon a lullaby as the sweet smell of his pipe smoke lingered on his shirt and welcomed deep sleep against his chest. Music locates memories in a particular time and space. Music transports with the force of a tidal wave and the finesse of a bird’s wing. Music has the power to situate, evoke, and inspire.
There is something simultaneously individual and communal about music.
Music is the intersection of personal memories and shared experience. Music is where emotions stand side-by-side, and numbness and indifference are shed. Two plus two equals more than four when set to music. Music is the soil of common ground. Music changes hearts, and changed hearts change the world.
Caramoor was founded on the belief that music matters.
Walter and Lucie Rosen understood music matters in profound, vital, and life-affirming ways. They celebrated innovation by sponsoring new music. They connected music to story and culture to keep history alive. They embraced travel and curated global consciousness through music. They fostered artistic excellence across generations by creating music residencies and mentoring opportunities. Caramoor bears witness to their love for each other and music.
Walter and Lucie’s story resonates with me on many levels. I can picture Lucie performing on the theremin. I can picture Walter playing the piano as a child. I can picture Lucie introducing concerts at Caramoor later in her life. I can picture Walter leading board meetings advocating for artistic causes. I can picture Walter and Lucy hosting grand parties with music wafting through the Caramoor estate. I can picture Walter and Lucy strolling the Caramoor grounds on a temperate summer evening. Music was in their hearts and they brought music to the world. Walter and Lucie knew the same thing I know. Music matters because it speaks to the human spirit. Music says, “In darkness, may you find light. In despair, may you find hope. In weakness, may you find strength. In listening, may you find understanding. In celebration, may you find connection. In appreciation, may you find joy.”
