Today, I allowed Nancy to share a bit before I conclude the blog.

As I listened to the Sergie Rachmaninoff “Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini,” I was mesmerized by the impeccable technique and profound emotional phrasing. It was the technical ability that I had always longed for on the saxophone and bassoon.  For years, I had taught my saxophone and clarinet  students that tone and expression were as important as technique.  Yet, I knew it was such a gift (technique)  that I myself always lacked.  I felt like it was almost like an “out of body experience” when I was looking at myself and thinking, why didn’t I have that gift?

Isn’t it peculiar how the early hours of the night prompt us to introspect? It was then that the inner voice reminded me of my saxophone teacher at the Paris Conservatory. I had mentioned to Daniel Deffayet about  a classmate’s  exceptional technique in the saxophone class, and he responded, “NancEEEE (yes, with an emphasis on the NancY), you know so and so?”  I responded, well yes, he has the best technique in the class.   To which Deffayet replied, “But Nancy, he has no  heart!” I will never forget leaving that saxophone lesson from his house, realizing that Daniel Deffayet understood me. He would also advise me to focus more on solfege (music dictation) rather than playing the saxophone.

So, once again, as I listened to this incredible pianist play the Rachmaninoff, I also realized that I could appreciate technical music as long as it conveyed soulful music.

OK, now back to me, Harmony!     You ask, “How does this relate to my blog this week?” Well, can’t you read what I have to endure? A woman who appreciates beautiful artistry yet fails to comprehend why she lacked the “right” gifts to pursue a performing career on the saxophone or bassoon . Many days, she is content with the cards she has been dealt, but I am there for her when she takes the wrong path in self-evaluation. How about you? Are you there for your loved ones when they venture down those paths that you know won’t serve them well?

I wonder what my friend Winnie the Pooh would say about regrets from what we don’t have?   Ah yes, he would say, “I always get to where I am going by walking away from where I have been.”  So profound, yet utterly simple, don’t you think?  I think it is rather grand that us dogs can be such emotional support when most humans don’t have a clue.   Now, I think I will make Nancy go back to bed because this is getting way to philosophical for me at   3:10 AM.   By the way, I could not send it at 3:10 AM because our internet was not working again.  Don’t worry, I won’t allow Nancy to write some of my blog often because she really can ramble on and on.