Well, well, well, aren’t you glad we have been prepping for winter? Indeed old man winter finally had the decency to wake up and blast us a bit (the skiing has been great by the way, and sorry for all you golfers, looks like the party is over for a while.).
Alright lets dive right in.
Wintering Well tip #9 – Take some time to look for what is good or going right in your world, and in our world. You will have to make the decision to look for it, and when you find it, be generous and share it.
Here is mine:
One morning last week whilst listening to KBSU (doesn’t “whilst” sound KBSU-y?), the classical music channel, we had the good fortune of hearing Maurice Ravel’s “Bolero” from start to finish. Bolero was the first bit of classical music I remember hearing as a 6th grader. I’m not sure why I did not become a snare drum player after that, but I do remember being charmed. Every time I have heard it since, it stops me in my tracks; even if it is used in a commercial or cartoon, “Bolero” still has the power to change my focus… and I stop… and I listen.
Why? The unbelievable snare drum! 24 taps repeated for 15 minutes for an incredible 4050 beats. The focus and persistence and precision approach the unreal. Hypnotic. Spellbinding.
Darn is that a great way to keep the winter rolling? (pun intended)
You can find this piece art, on Youtube. The one we have enclosed is just cool. Give it watch. Only a Russian could conduct with a toothpick!
Maurice Ravel Bolero London Symphony Orchestra Valery Gergiev
Cheers
ks
And for you drummers who have ever had to actually play Bolero, I understand this photo may be more appropriate!
Feb 28, 2018 at 5:36 PM
Ahhh...mighty is the mightily wielded toothpick and the heartily wielded drumstick. Even the violinists jerked their hair in rhythm. My day is better already. Thanks.
Feb 28, 2018 at 2:05 PM
Break out the toothpicks!
Mar 01, 2018 at 11:02 PM
Awh, the mighty toothpick! Are toothpicks what is left after 4050 beats of the snare drum? How about a toothpick adjustment! Fabulous music! Loved listening and watching! Dr. Swaim, your awesome!
Mar 02, 2018 at 7:54 AM
That must be where they come from! I'll bring out the toothpick next time you are in.