Detroit Airport
(this thread is for Steph)
I know that sounds bizarre, but desperation drives one to new, um, heights.
I have been fixated on Steph’s incredible rendition of O the Deep Deep Love of Jesus. How I want to mimic her playing! (Her singing too, but we’ll have to wait for glory for that transformation.) With my ear buds in, I played the song over and over, analyzing, meditating…straining to listen. Realizing that my brother’s voice is higher than Steph’s, and knowing he’d want to sing it in Gm or Am, I tried to piece out the chord structure. At least I got the bass notes.
And regretted the choice I made one year to take French IV instead of Music Theory. How I regret not taking Music Theory. Was that an augmented chord with a G bass, or a diminished chord, or just a sixth? It will be an adventure this afternoon when I get to a piano to see how close I came!
Nevertheless, it was a potent exercise in listening. Really listening. And that’s why I’ll never forget the trip from Boise to Salt Lake City, from Salt Lake City to Detroit, and from Detroit to Pittsburgh.
Thanks, Steph. Thankyouthankyouthankyouthankyouthankyouthankyou. You were a great travel companion. Next year in Jerusalem, so to speak, eh?
A Living Pencil 
Oh Carol. I don’t even know how to respond to that!!! You should have called. I would have sent you a chord chart!!!!!!! :)Wish I could be there with you to hear you play and hear your brother sing… Just kinda wish we could hang out anywhere, anyhow, anytime. I don’t think we’re going to be able to speak when we get together – you know, kinda like the movie ‘Awakenings’ in which they have parkinson’s so badly that their bodies are frozen – such severe tremors that they’re still. that will be us. too much to say, so we won’t be able to talk. That’s ok. We’ll just sing. And, I often practice piano on planes. I totally get that. It’s more mental than physical anyway!! I will pray for you – happy wedding!Love,me.
@wonderloveandpraise – I’m just checking my emal at the hotel before heading to the chapel. Someday we will hang together; I know that! I’m so glad that you understand the piano practicing on the plane. Kindred…..
Been there done both of these….I can never take just 1 book..it’s at least 3!….Not sure I’ve practiced piano on a plane…but pretty sure a bus at least..and a car. Practiced saxophone and twirled a rifle in my head too…amazing how well it works! I can vividly remember before a talent show one time standing with my friend as we closed our eyes and did our rifle routine in our heads…and we nailed it! Crazy Carol’s unite!Hope you have a wonderful trip…you’ll do great!
I teach music theory to high schoolers, and I’d just like to urge you that it’s not too late to learn it. I understand about practicing without your instrument. Mental rehearsals are very valuable.
I love this post, Carol. Such a fun window into your thoughts and talents. I am SO not musical, so at that “Jerusalem” gathering I just KNOW God will provide one day, I will just sit at the feet of my sisters and savor the joy of your music. It makes me teary to think about it!Happy travels. Happy wedding. Happy times for you and your family.Much, much love,DI