So here’s what happened. A UK buddy sent out his holiday card, which was a disc of downloaded podcasts. The downloads were from a BBC Radio 4 program called Soul Music. Each program covers a single piece of music, be it a pop song or a classical piece, and delves into the song’s origins and impact. Sometimes writers and performers are interviewed. Sometimes regular folks chime in on what the song means to them. It’s fascinating, yes, but it’s also incredibly moving.
As we’ve been listening to various programs, I’ve found each half-hour segment to be utterly engrossing. And that’s the minimal effect, friends. When I listened to 2 back-to-back programs on Soul Music – “Send in the Clowns” and “Simple Gifts” (the basis of Aaron Copland’s “Appalachian Spring”) – it was a bit too much for me. I happen to love those 2 pieces of music and my emotions took hold and shook me senseless. Granted, it was beautiful emotion and I willingly rode its wave. But it was wrenching, just the same. And that’s part of the appeal of listening to Soul Music. I never know which half-hour program will affect me the most.
I’d never heard of this particular program before my buddy shared the disc, and now I’m fairly addicted. Mister and I have been parsing out our listening sessions, but now that I have the link to all available programs, I’m feeling pretty good about my supply. And I’m incredibly grateful to have received something so wonderful from across the pond. It’s amazing what joy can arrive in one’s mail.