My first love was, and continues to be, music. My mom played a big role in helping develop this love by enrolling me in Mommy & Me keyboard lessons starting around age 4, and by continuing to give the gift of piano lessons for the next 10+ years. She introduced me to Stephen Sondheim musicals and to her favorite Beatles songs and 70s hits. My dad and sister introduced me to plenty of music artists, too – from Led Zeppelin and Pink Floyd to Ace of Base and The Cranberries.
I had a boom box and a walkman as early as I can remember, and I listened to my growing collection of tapes and CDs constantly. I learned all the lyrics to my favorite songs and always sang along. To this day, if you ever see me driving, you’ll see me whole-heartedly singing along with whatever I have playing on my stereo.
I am a very feeling person (a very stereotypical Cancer, if you’re into astrology) and I think that is why I have such love for music – it’s an outlet for my wide range of big feelings. Music is liberating for me – it can make me smile and even laugh or tear up with joy, it can be a place to feel and release my anger, sadness, and grief, and it can fill me with nostalgia or contemplation and wonder.
I love how connecting music can be, too. There is nothing quite like the feeling of being in a space where people are hearing and feeling and appreciating music together, whether it’s at a concert or in a sanctuary or even gathering around a busker on a busy sidewalk.
Practicing or participating in the creation of music is a form of self-care for me. I still play piano and have dabbled with the guitar, bass, drums, viola, and cello over the years – but my primary instrument now is my voice. Being able to be a part of our congregational choir is such a joy, and I always look forward to and cherish the time spent with them on Tuesdays and Sundays.
I’m so grateful for all the roles music plays in my life! It’s been a wonderful companion, and I hope I’m able to enjoy it in one form or another until my last moments of life.
~Jenn Yi
So much this
Jenn, we are so fortunate to have you in the UUCG choir! Your beautiful voice is such a gift to us.
Jenn, I am so thankful you are in the UUCG choir. Your beautiful voice is such a gift to us.
Thank you, Peggy! Your kind and welcoming spirit is such a gift to us!
I feel the same way about the arts in general. Music, drama, dance, visual art, language arts, they are all gifts to strengthen a soul. The arts speak to that inner ear and illuminate the mind’s eye. It accepts your personal expression unconditionally ( while singing solo) and reflects who you are in a community. You have been given a wonderful gift that will be a constant companion till you pass on from this life but your communion with your fellow musicians will endure through the harmony you have set in motion. .
Beautifully put!