As I was growing up, my home was filled with beautiful music. My love for music was nutured by my parents. My mother is an accomplished pianist, organist and vocalist. My father played the saxophone in a dance band. I also have fond memories of him playing old tunes on his harmonica as we rode up the chairlift at Beaver Mountain Ski Resort during the winters. As a child, I remember the sweet peace of falling asleep to dad's saxophone music while mom accompanied him on the piano. My parents made certain that each of the six children in our family had the opportunity to learn to play a musical instrument. I don't really know why, but I chose the piano.
My mother was my first piano teacher, followed by many others through my college years. I also learned to play the organ. At a young age, I became a piano accompanist and organist in our church. One special memory is playing the organ for my Great-
Grandmother's funeral when I was in my early teens. Since I was rather petite, it was quite a balancing trick to reach and play the organ pedals. Although, I've had many opportunities to perform, accompany and make music with others over the years ... I feel that the greatest honor I've ever had is to play at the funeral of a loved one.
Following the deaths of my younger sister and father to cancer, I found myself turning to music in a more intimate way than I ever had before. Playing the piano seemed to help me release and express deep emotions that were often difficult to put into words. In my grief, I discovered a healing and creative energy there. It was at this time that I wrote my first song, "Memories of My Dad" and arranged my first hymn, "Sweet Hour of Prayer."
In April 2000, our family faced yet another tragedy ... the senseless and violent murder of my husband, Peter. I cannot begin to describe here the trauma our family experienced or the affects of its aftermath. Yet, I will tell you that music has since become an invaluable, personal tool for coping and managing on a daily basis. At times, the only time I really feel "okay", is when I'm playing the piano with my eyes closed, imagining that Peter is sitting in the living room chair ... listening still.
Each hymn I've arranged or song I've written was created from a unique motivation. It may have been an answer to a question offered up in prayer ... a reflection on a particular experience ... the musical interpretation of deep emotion ... or an expression of a personal conviction. No matter how the music started, or how often I play it, I am amazed at the comforting and healing gifts these hymns and songs continue to bring into my life. I hope as you listen, you will find something of benefit as well.
Note: Stories behind the music can be found in the "Muses" section of this web site.