Somebody asked me recently what I thought my life would have been like without music. I can't even imagine it. Nor do I want to.

I think almost every memory I have is attached to a song, an album, a concert.  Even when I was too young to understand it, music was a part of my life.

I have seen first hand how playing an instrument can change a life. Even save a life. Much like a sports program might save an athletic but wayward kid's life.

My parents always listened to music, especially Broadway show tunes. Nobody in my family was particularly talented, but we all love to sing. My siblings and I bonded over music. My sister and I had every Beatles album, and we would argue over who would marry Paul. My brother, who is 10 years my senior, introduced me to cool bands like The Doors when other kids were listening to Alvin and The Chipmunks.

My only regret is I never learned to play an instrument. I took lessons but I only wanted to play, I didn't have the patience to actually learn. I sure wish I did.

I have seen first hand how playing an instrument can change a life. Even save a life. Much like a sports program might save an athletic but wayward kid's life.

My boyfriend Bobby is one of the most talented musicians I have ever known. He can play any instrument, and he sings like nobody's business. But as a teenager, he went down a rocky road. Drugs, drinking, and some minor law breaking.  But there was one thing he loved even more than being a rebel. His guitar. To this day, he usually is holding a guitar. When he is upset or worried he reaches for the guitar where he finds comfort. He could have ended up in jail or worse if it wasn't for music.

And that's not an isolated case. I saw it with many of my friends growing up. Music really does matter.

Which is why I am so supportive of a new program right here in the Hudson Valley called Music Matters. Townsquare Media of the Hudson Valley, Paul Effman Music, Barcone’s Music and Magic Moose Records have partnered together for Music Matters, a program to provide underprivileged Hudson Valley children with access to musical instruments. The instruments will be donated to the music program at the child’s school. And you can help us make a difference in a child's life.

From now through Tuesday, Sept. 6, we’re accepting nominations of children who have expressed an interest in music and could benefit from access to a musical instrument. For more information, visit this link. You can also nominate a child below.

 

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