I get asked by a lot by strangers where I get my musical talents from. And although I believe that talent comes from a combo of hard work, opportunity and personality, there is something to be said about the climate you grow up in. For me music was never a choice. I was fortunate enough to be raised in a family that loved music, knew its benefit and was able to provide me with lessons and an instrument. However not many people know my ‘musical family tree’ so I thought I would break it down for you.
Almost everyone in my very small family has a connection to music. Both of my parents and both of my aunts played in the Burlington Teen Tour Band. The very band that I got my musical start in. My mom played the clarinet, my dad the trumpet, and my aunts played the saxophone/bells and the Flute. I have so many childhood memories watching my aunt Elaine play in concerts, or playing piano with my aunt Andrea. Music was all around me.
Both my parents sing in a choir as well and our house was always filled with singing. Beyond that 3 of my 4 Grandparents were also musicians playing the guitar, piano, saxophone, clarinet and of course drums! I have childhood memories of seeing my Grandfather play in concerts and singing along while my other grandfather played guitar. For me, music wasn’t an ‘if’ but rather a ‘what’. And that what ended up being a life long passion for drums. I’m incredibly thankful to my family for providing the opportunity for me to thrive in a musical environment. Without that I can honestly say I would not love what I do nearly as much.
My sister danced…
Hilary