Richness and Nuances

Monday, January 08, 2024

Yesterday, my friend Julie and I were at Whispering Winds, hearing classical pianist Dan Chaiken playing several pieces beautifully. The event, arranged by Dan’s sister, Rachelle, was in honor of Fay, their mom. Fay resides at Whispering Winds, and today is her 100th birthday.

About Fay, on being introduced to her one day before her 100th birthday. She is lovely, still beautiful, and has a very good mind and memory. Several weeks ago, Rachelle and Fay traveled by plane and car to mid-America for a reunion with long-time and dear friends.

About yesterday’s event, Dan introduced each piece with some history about its composer, its era in general, and its creative impact. His playing was excellent, and the acoustics were fine. Years had passed since I heard live classical music, and I remembered how very expressive a piano is, and how a pianist’s techniques create different moods and textures. I closed my eyes, and as he played, my imagination accompanied the themes, rhythms, and tones.

After Dan’s program, Julie and I agreed on a readiness to resume listening to classical music. Back at home, I opened a closet containing many long-unheard CDs, selected a few, and began listening. Very enriching and rewarding. Where have I been!

Dear Friends: Stepping away slightly from all-busy and technology-filled moments. Diana