A Musical Odyssey

The long, eventful sojourn
lasted three fun-filled,
musical weeks in Washington State.
The country music repertoire I had prepared
in advance had only a few songs.
What I listened to was an
adventure with songs very
new to my ears and filling my head.

My sister had laid the foundation
with fiddle and singing and was
involved in many jams and bands.
Behind the scenes at my sister’s place
were long hours of practice.
Sound equipment, back-up tracks,
tempos, rhythms and keys. I sometimes
played the piano and keyboard.

What a reunion this was and many
moons apart from our beginnings
in Massachusetts and Colorado. I sang
with many professionals and one Hall of
Fame guitarist. I stretched my musical
abilities which opened doors to new
singing feats. All the musicians were
helpful and friendly. Now if I can

just build my repertoire of selections.
One day off, I foolishly thought I could
rest, only to discover we were to practice
seven hours of music. My attempts to
yodel left much to be desired. We sang
harmony together as well. My work is cut
out for the future with country and Western.

This entry was posted in country and Western music, fiddle, Harvey Nelsen, 2012 Western Swing Hall of Fame, Washington State and tagged , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

8 Responses to A Musical Odyssey

  1. Emily says:

    I love this post and the photos. I’m glad you had such a wonderful time together. You both look very happy! It’s wonderful to try new things and I think you did a fantastic job singing out of your element and Aunt Sheila did a fantastic job on the fiddle! Make a great team.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Thanks, Emily. So kind of you to note that. We were happy and had a grand time. Sometimes my brain was fatigued from so much music. But, music is food for the soul and I loved every moment there. Sheila is an excellent fiddle player. I am glad you thought so highly of my singing. ^__^

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  2. Tom says:

    Truly a musical odyssey. What a wonderful experience with many memories made! They say music is a universal language and what better way to converse than with your sister. Encore please!

    Liked by 1 person

    • A thousand thanks, Tom. Musical memories were made. We will have an encore too. I am tasked with singing somewhere locally and finding jam groups such as my sister has. Music is food for the soul, and it is so rewarding to share this gift with others. Get your guitar strings ready for a jam session next visit. Thank you for the insightful and encouraging comment. ^__^

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  3. Arno Bode,cologne ,Germany says:

    Liebe Mary Ann,
    Dein musikalischer Ausflug in die Country Musik scheint ja ein gelungenes Experiment geworden zu sein.Aus Deinen Schilderungen ist die Freude und der Spaß den Du ghabt hast nachzuvollziehen.Wundervoll diese Begeisterung zu spüren.Es ist nur sehr schade ,daß noch keine akustische Hörprobe zur Verfügung steht.Weiterhin viel Erfolg und Spaß in dieser Musikrichtung.Hast Du von Deinem Country Engagement eine Ton Aufzeichnung?
    Liebe GrĂĽĂźe
    Dein Arno

    Liked by 1 person

  4. Annika Perry says:

    Mary Ann, a lovely post about your musical journey – your enthusiasm and passion is infectious – just wish we could hear some of it! Love the photos of you all too, lots of smiles and great cowboy hats! I would balk at seven hours practice; good for you for managing all this – sounds such fun!! Wishing you well.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Thanks, Annika. I’ll send YouTube links in a private email to you so you can listen. I have not posted them yet. Seven hours fly by when you are having fun. Both my sister and I have a passion for music too. As I always note: music is food for the soul. Enjoy your trip to Florida! ^__^

      Liked by 1 person

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