Let the Music Ring!

I love Christmas music! I especially enjoy attending concerts were Christmas music fills the air with the voices of young people. Last night, our family attended Berkley's concert that was held at the high school. The music was beautiful and you could just feel the Spirit of Christmas fill the room.

I am so grateful for the blessings of music! Having been an advocate for arts education for many years, I am appreciative of those teachers who work so hard for the arts. Without such programs, I am convinced that we as a society will begin to loose part of our humanity. Civility and kindness can be brought into the lives of many who listen to the sweet sounds of music. The Arts are a necessary element to our lives. They teach discipline and self control. My life has been blessed because of those who shared music with me. At one point in my life I was told I had no ear for music. My parents disagreed with that and I was allowed to learn to play the violin. I studied the violin for 12 years after that. Then, I continued on to study classical voice and learned to sing in both Italian and German. Most who know me, know that the theatre was my life. The highlight of my years in the theatre came when I was named the Executive Artistic Director of ACT. I was pushed further than I ever would have been as an actress when I took on that job. I had to make things happen. I was challenged and blessed by the lives of many I got to know during that time in my life. I love the Arts!

I am troubled by one thing...It seems that in some way, we as a society are losing an important battle. Etiquette seems to be something that is no longer taught. I was appalled by the screaming audience at times yelling at their kids or kids yelling at their friends. I was shocked to the point of disbelief. Appropriate, I think not. So, here it is. Yelling and screaming is not appropriate for a choral concert or at a theatre performance. Children and adults need to be taught this. It is appropriate to clap at the end of a song. It is appropriate to give a standing ovation at the end of a concert. Number 1, the threatre or concert hall in not the place to scream as if you are attending a sporting event. I was appalled when a young lady was talking on her cell phone during the concert. It is important that some places be a place of respect. Just like in the chapels of faith. This is no longer assumed. It must be taught. Appropriate behavior must be outlined for all. Anarchy abounds when their are no rules, especially rules for dignified and appropriate behavior.

I feel better now. I hope that my life reflects my love for the arts. They have made me who I am today. One day, maybe I will return to the place that I love....the Theatre. Until then, I will continue to play the most amazing role of my life, wife and mother of three.