Hi everyone! Happy November to you all! It is hard to believe that this year is passing so quickly. I am really enjoying the colors of autumn and the cooler temps. 

As always, I continue to enjoy my work as a musician-in-residence at UVA hospital. There have been so many memorable moments but I will tell you about one of them. 

I recently re-learned a piece I used to play many years ago and it was like having an old friend back. It is "Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring" by Bach. The arrangement is by David Qualey  and it is very beautiful ! I get a lot of very positive responses from the staff at the hospital as well as by the patients. 

One particular moment stands out with this piece for me. I was up playing in the PICU (pediatrics ICU) and playing for a baby and his parents. I was sitting right outside the doorway and at one point, the mother picked up her son and came over to me and was gesturing (she did not speak English) to me and my guitar and to her son. She was delighted to have me there and I played some lullabies and other pieces. Later, she put him back in the bed and I continued playing. For my last piece, I chose, "Jesu" and then the father picked up his son and came over to me and was rocking his baby son along to the music. They both looked happy and peaceful and to be really enjoying the music. That's how good this piece is!  When I finished, the mother and father smiled and waved goodbye. 

As a music practitioner, it is not about a performance but about letting the power of music find it's way into the heart and soul of those who are listening. A hospital setting is a good place to really listen because most of the sounds are not pleasing. (machines, alarms, etc) So when there is beautiful music introduced in the room, it fills the environment with such a peace that is much needed. 

I also recently learned the song, "Oh My Love" by John Lennon. It's a beautiful song from his "Imagine" album.  

I am also enjoying the peace and beauty of autumn here in Virginia. The above picture was taken on one of my daily walks in my neighborhood. I hope you are all enjoying the change of seasons. May it bring you comfort that seasonal change is one thing we can count on.