I knew a man. I knew him for a number of years. He was a very good man. He was an artist. And a gallery owner. And a classical music lover. And frequently, he would open his gallery and host concerts. He’d spread the word. And provide the supper. And the space. And he’d invite musicians around to play, and then give you all the money from the tickets. It was good money. They were great concerts. And he made everyone feel special, and welcome, and important. He also looked after young artists. He’d let let live in the space out the back of the gallery. Or he’d introduce them to people. Or he’d show their work. I think you now know the type of person I am talking about.
A few weeks ago he died. He was over 100. He had a very dignified death. As he died, he was with a friend of his that knew him so well – one of the artists he’d mentored – and they were listening to the Bach cello suites. And during a particular prelude he died.
Today is his memorial service. And I will be playing that particular prelude for him. It’s an honour to do this. I am in the space of St James church – a space I know and love. And I am playing to honour this most excellent man.
It got me thinking about the importance of music. How we use it to mark occasions – perhaps weddings, or births, or deaths, or break-ups. And how certain pieces have such significance. And also it got me thinking of the importance of musicians. And how we can be those people that bring to life that music. It’s special. Very special.
It’s sad that musicians aren’t valued more by the decision makers and the people in power, you know. Because as much as a CEO is paid, that particular CEO can’t do what I will be doing today. (Don’t get me wrong, I’m not the only person who can do what I’m doing today. But there’s not so many of us that can…. And if young people aren’t taught music properly, there’ll be less of us.)
The musicians, and the artists, and the writers, and the poets, and the singers, and the story-tellers – when there are important moments, that’s who everyone needs. It’s a special job we all have. I wouldn’t do anything else.
And today, I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else but playing that prelude.