I’m learning to play piano by working
through a book of Christmas tunes my
wife was using when she was five. It’s
both humbling and uplifting. It’s uplifting
because it’s Christmas music, and every
once in a while, I can make out the tune.
It’s humbling because Bach is a pretty
steep climb from here. I’m in my forties,
so I’ve got forty years, maybe, with which
to improve. I’m far from a virtuoso—very
far—so I have set my sights slightly below
playing as well as Glenn Gould. Even still,
this holiday season, you are cordially invited
to a recital in which I will present “Jingle
Bells,” “Joy to the World,” and “Silent Night,”
among others. They will be the Piano for Kids
version, of course. And, despite the sanctity
of the season, I fully anticipate being heckled.
Graphic: Freepik
Justin Meckes 