View from the Bridge

One of my little joys in December is to read my Spotify Wrapped —a summary of all the music I have listened to in the previous year on the platform.   

I’ve always had an eclectic taste in music. In this past year, heavy rotation on my list included Bach, Charlie XCX, and Madeliene Peyroux. I do love to listen to music and often have it playing in the Head of School office as I go about my daily routine. 

I also performed music in my younger years, including singing in an a capella group and giving it a shot on piano and cello. While I do not still play music today, I did enjoy these experiences as a student. 

Recently, however, I had the chance to return to the world of making music. Music Teacher Nadine Cunningham invited me to play the jingle bells in the orchestra’s winter holiday concert. I jumped at the opportunity despite some nervousness. How often does one get to play such an important instrument in a performance? 

After several practice sessions, I learned how to play the jingle bells: strike them from the top, don’t ring them in the town crier fashion. I found hitting the beat to be okay but struggled to hold the note when the jingle bells were silent. 

The big day came, and I dressed accordingly as I brought my tuxedo out of the closet. The song I was joining—“Let it Snow”—was the final piece in the show. I was introduced, took my place among the percussion section, and off we went. 

While I may not have hit every note perfectly, it was a great joy to be part of this art and experience for our community. What I may have lacked in rhythm, I made up for with earnestness.   

What impressed me the most were the talented students who carried me along. Strings, brass, winds, percussion—our Tabor Seawolves are tremendously gifted musicians, and it was wonderful to be in their presence and hear their superlative sound. 

This edition of Tabor Today focuses on making music and the role this part of the human experience plays in our lives. Specifically, we look at ways that music is part of a Tabor education and permeates the student experience. Whether it’s singing as a community in Chapel, joining on a weekend night to listen to an open mic session, participating in Applied Music, or listening to concerts throughout the year, our Seawolves know how to strike a tune. 

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Tony Jaccaci (@tonyjaccaci) • Instagram photos and videos