In tune

We have a piano given to me by my grandmother that sits prominently in our living room and is accessible to all, including those just walking past. Little fingers will reach out, strike a few keys and the stride is maintained. Other times, fingers are closed in fists with stable, planted feet and loud bursts of sound can be heard outside. (Have I mentioned we're the loudest house on the block?)

My children have not benefited from private lessons. They are self-taught, which is actually quite easy these days with instructional videos on YouTube. My oldest, Allen, seems to lead the way with new song discoveries that the other children hear and can partly reproduce. Even the deaf child who hears with bionic ears can tap out a recognizable tune. The "music" is constant, unpredictable and occurs when the mood arises. Doesn't really matter what everyone else in the house is doing and no one complains. Even when Nick "plays" and sings. Hey, if you haven't heard his version of "Margaritaville" on piano, you're missing out!

When my grandmother comes to visit, at least one child will ask for playing assistance and Memere is glad to help. Her patience and willingness to teach is much needed in this house. The fact that she raised six children is also much needed, because to stay with us is a true lesson. A lesson in the gift of silence (in small quantity here), how to get along with others, the importance of family house rules and why everyone should have a chore or job, but most importantly, a lesson in what a large family can give you. It can give you plenty of sound, at times heard in tune and at times not. When it's not in tune, it still sounds oh so good.