I love to listen to the radio. Now with the Internet, I am still able to listen to WQXR from New York City. I have listened to it from the time I was a child, especially the Metropolitan Opera. There are many other shows that feature various artists. One morning when I was listening, I had to stop what I was doing because the music was so terrific. Playing was the magnificent Brahms sonata in E minor for cello and piano. It is a composition rich in melody and filled with that romantic emotion that is so, well, unmistakably “Brahmsian”. The performance was truly outstanding. After the performance there was an interview with the players, Zuill Bailey and Awadagin Pratt.
As it turns out these two musicians have known each other since they were children. They used to play Ping-Pong together and became friends. To look at them and read of their backgrounds, you never would have guessed they would form a remarkable musical duo. But, eventually they started playing music together and let their friendship pour into their music performance. What a journey those two have had and what a vehicle to express it!
When I think of our time together, I think of it as just that, a journey. Believe it or not, Zuill Bailey and Awadagin Pratt’s journey became part of my own journey as it made me reflect on some of my friendships and relationships and how they have effected me, who I am, how I preach or play the piano. As their music touched my soul, I became more open. Even though I have been here a very short time, friendships are building. We are really getting to know each other, and because of that we will never be the same. It is one of the true blessings of friendship.
And, of course, it is the spirit that brought us together. Through our inward journey and outward expressions of who are, we become more aware of what we believe and value. So let us continue to worship together, make music together, and play together. Let us rejoice and share with one another during this transition time. And may the Spirit that came alive for the apostles at Pentecost continue to be alive in us!
Peace,
Jarv