A Moment in Music at St Pancras & Home

If you ever go to St Pancras International train station in London, you will see in the main walkway, a number of upright pianos. Available for public use. And while we Brits have a reputation for not being too self-promoting, I have to say that there are a lot of talented people going through St Pancras on a regular basis. And maybe a lot of bored people waiting for trains.

While waiting for a friend I decided to have a go at remembering some old pieces I learned for my piano exams. I'm a sucker for a minuet, but after a while of my mediocre playing and fun reminiscing, a young guy with the thickest East End accent asked if his friend could have a go (said friend hanging back and looking a bit shy and embarassed). Of course I gave up my piano stool and let him have a go, but decided to stay & listen. Best decision ever- absolutely beautiful playing from this teenager in low slung jeans and baseball cap. The elderly French lady next to me was as mesmerized as I was and we practically applauded and praised this poor boy into embarassment.

I'd love to thank whoever came up with the idea of placing those pianos there, for the knowledge that hidden talents and beauty can be found everywhere, even in a busy train station in London.

When I returned to my family home, I decided then to practice a bit, not having access to a piano where I now live. I found an arrangement of the theme to Spice & Wolf, a newly discovered animé, which was called Tabi no Tochuu. The arrangement by someone under the name TheIshter, who makes piano arrangements of popular animié themes and posts them on youtube. He also posts the sheet music which is kind and lovely of him. This was my challenge. I never got past Grade 4 and I'm terrible with chords, but I found a familiar satisfaction in struggling through learning this. I haven't quite got it down yet, but I can play enough to be able recognise the piece and I will persevere. Most of the enjoyment is in the struggle and the trying.

All in all,  an enjoyable August Bank Holiday weekend to remind me of the beauty people can create, and that music is one of the highest forms of said beauty.

Peace,

The Traveller