By Judy Talacko (AU)
I have been a music lover all my life. I am passionate about classical music and everyday is devoted to magnificent strains of music in my environment whether it be in my studio or daily chores.
Thus when I heard through Bibi and Gabby that IWAP may form a music group. I was right there waiting for the moment that this may get off the ground. Our first gathering was arranged in the summer of 2019. I could dream up so many options that might be available in this group e.g. madrigal group, choir and ensemble groups. None of us really knew what might happen and who would turn up.
I used to play the violin when I was young and loved it. I played in orchestras and chamber music groups up to my marriage. From there came babies and a very busy life, including residing in different countries. Similar to so many of our IWAP members. My violin was then laid to rest and thereafter stored and forgotten. When finally the group planned the first gathering I mulled over the idea would I dare to be so foolish to see if I could play the violin again.
Out of storage I retrieved my long abandoned instrument, still in my school violin case now with rusty hinges and lock, dried and fraying leather cover and labeled with my maiden name and childhood address. Still doubting my courage I blew off the dust and checked the bow. Oh dear, all the hairs had rotted it needed serious attention. Once restored and getting a posh new violin case which I could wear as a backpack I thought I was made. At least I looked the part. My courage still in doubt for the first meeting I thought ,”OK, I shall take the violin to the gathering, if I am complete rubbish I can sing instead. At least I will have the thrill of walking through the streets of Prague with my violin on my back”. For me this was a moment I had wanted to treasure and now here I was in the Metro with my violin on my back. It made me feel like a true musician. I wore a contented smile of satisfaction although this could all possibly end in tears.
Bibi and Gaby were so kind and encouraging and wonderfully enthusiastic. After 50 years I was so rusty but there were blessings I could still read music and time and key signatures and above all the fingers and joints still worked. The first day I had doubts that I was worthy to continue and should be singing with the group instead. It did not take too long for me to be friends with my violin again and we started to make some pleasing harmony together.
Our gatherings met monthly as regularly as possible, at times we had several beautiful singers but then individual travels and movements meant we only had few attending on other occasions. Nevertheless, many or few, we always finished our two hours of rehearsing and covering many diverse pieces unanimously agreed how wonderful it felt. Making music together and combining harmonies is one of the most beautiful and satisfying experiences.
Covid has deprived us of our progress not meeting for over a year now. I pray that one day we can freely bring the group together again.
If there is any member out there who once played an instrument that has long been laid to rest and wishes to join the group and arouse your musical background please talk to us. I can promise you that whether you love to sing, hum, play a guitar, recorder or used to play the banjo or a wind instrument or even want to try a hand at percussion, please consider joining this group. You will not be disappointed.
Title: The Green Bushes, first published in 1845. It is from a book of English Folk songs. The music group played many songs from this super book. There is an element of mischief and fun behind all these cute folk songs.
