Music has always been an important part of my day, bringing me energy when I need it or inspiration when I'm feeling a little blue.  I have been going to live concerts for close to 25 years.  I have been blessed to see some of the most amazing musicians and talents the music industry has to offer.  Live music is even more special because it involves all the senses, not just your sense of hearing.  Live music allows you to see the musicians perform and that helps you make a special connection to the music.

I attended the Fishing Cove and Forest Park Winter Concert where my son, Spencer Roby, performed live.  The nerves were equally shared between father and son, let me assure you of that.  I was so happy to see a packed auditorium with other supportive parents and families from both Fishing Cove and Forest Park Elementary Schools.  Moving the concert to the Suzanne M. Henseler Quidnessett Elemetnary School was brilliant to make sure that there would be ample space for the musicians as well as enough seating for the "fans." 

There were three concert sections – strings, chorus and band.  Each section had their own block of time to shine. And shine they did.  The music was crisp.  The singing was uplifting and fun.  The harmony and rhythm and joy of music was evident with every bow stroke on the violins, every high note from the chorus, every beat of the drums.  These kids, under such incredible guidance by their music teachers, were entertaining and the crowd cheered louder after each song.  I commend the music staff at both schools for their dedication to music and these talented children.

When I was 14, I went with a few friends to see Little Feat at a tiny venue on URI's campus.  In high school, I got to see Eric Clapton, Robert Cray and Stevie Ray Vaughn at Great Woods.  In college, I was blessed to Phish, Blues Travelers and Ziggy Marley in New York City.  But, the concert I will most cherish from this day on happened Thursday, January 31, 2013 in small town just south of Providence, with friends and family by my side.

Congratulations to all of the musicians from Fishing Cove Elementary and Forest Part Elementary, especially my son, Spencer. 

Encore, encore.