Homemade Music

                  

There was once a day that if music was to be a part of your daily life, it had to be homemade.

Young people today can't imagine not being able to log-on, hook up, or turn up their music. However this, mere listening, does not require "homemade music."

*I* can't remember a time when I couldn't turn it on (be it the radio or record player) to listen to music.

But, once there was a time when, if you wanted music, you had to create it yourself.

Homemade music.

And it is not as long ago as the Renaissance period (1450-1600). During this time people were expected to be able to contribute musically to the evening's entertainment. If unable to do so they quite possibly were not invited to social gatherings.

Where would you stand if this was the policy today?

Would you like it if you were only invited to people's houses based on whether you could sing or play an instrument?

How would you rate?

I imagine some would be left at home.

Fast forward a couple centuries.

During the 1800s it was a status symbol to own a piano. It wasn't just for show or as a dust collector as often happens today.  It was played. Children and young ladies were tutored in the playing of music, if not on the piano then on some other appropriate instrument.

Fast forward to the 20th century.

I have heard those in their 70s and older remark about the times when they gathered around the piano and just sang the evening away.

I can't imagine a more glorious way to spend time with friends and family.

When's the last time you've done that? 

Never?

I don't imagine you're alone in that response.

Sad.

I would like to see a revival of homemade music. 

I would like to see people gather socially for the sole purpose of making music together.

I plan on doing more than just write of this here. 

Stay tuned.

We shall one day gather to create homemade music.