“Music is an outburst of the soul.”
This quote is by Frederick Delius, an English composer who lived from 1862 to 1934.
Recently I had the special experience of going to a performance by the National Lutheran Choir. Some of the pieces sung by the 80-plus singers were accompanied by a pianist and some by an organist. There was a variety of songs, some traditional and some created by contemporary composers. The talent and preparation by the singers and accompanists, the choices of music by the artistic director, and her directing ability all came together to create “an outburst of the soul.”
Each of us has preferences for the types of music that appeal to us. And there is much to choose from. Jazz, rock, country, and classical, to name a few. I’m impressed by the many talented and skilled musicians and vocalists who bring music to life. I’m also impressed by the many creative composers and song writers. We’re fortunate when we are able to attend concerts in person, and we’re also fortunate that we live in a time when high quality recorded music is readily available from many sources.
Listening to music is not only pleasant in general, it can also help us when we’re feeling down or anxious. Many people listen to music to help them cope with difficult emotions, for music has a healing quality. Singing along with the music we’re listening to can also lift our spirits. On my drive home from the concert, I found myself feeling light-hearted and grateful.
I’m thankful for the many gifts of the universe, including the gift of music.