I bet every musician has been asked to play some Christmas music, but how many songs do you actually know? I realized that I knew almost one verse of ten different Christmas songs and that’s about it. My friend Dave asked me if I would join him and play a small Christmas Concert at a group home. The residents of this group home have developmental disabilities and look forward to this day every year, so how could I say no. This concert was a yearly tradition for a very good friend who recently passed away, he always had time for music and the people who appreciated it. Ken Hartt, I hope we made you proud - We miss you.
Dave and I got together and tried a few songs, after an hour or so, we felt we were as ready as we were going to be. We chose a few standards like “Silent Night”, “We Wish You a Merry Christmas” and “Jingle Bells” and gave them a bit of bluegrass flair. Dave plays mandolin and of course I’ve got the banjo covered, also joining us were guitarists, Brian and Robyne. Our band gave them about a half an hour of music and it felt good to be able to make people so happy. Brian, Dave and I play together in a bluegrass band, so we thought that it was only fitting to play a couple of bluegrass tunes as well.
The opening banjo lick of “Foggy Mountain Breakdown” grabbed everyone’s attention and soon the kitchen became a dance floor and the sound of hands clapping filled the air. A few more songs and a room full of smiles and our job was done - This one is for you Ken.
Please take some time out and play for people who can’t get out to see live music - in group homes, seniors homes, hospitals or wherever you can make a difference. Well I’d better get ready for Christmas myself - Merry Christmas from the Banjoblogger.
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