I wish I could recall the very first time Patrick accompanied me on the piano. I knew him only as the French pianist who shared my practice room in the college music department. Who could’ve dreamt he was the one my parents prayed for when I was born? Across the ocean, a two-year-old toddler was destined to be both my leader and my accompanist.
I’ve come to realize that Patrick and I have spent the bulk of our musical careers and ministry life about six feet apart. However, that piano-length space between us only exists in the physical realm. Musically, emotionally, and spiritually, there is no distance.
Musically, there is a bond, an understanding that transcends skill or knowledge. We connect through the music itself. The melody’s rhythm and harmonic support align in their proper pattern as we relate to each other according to the need of each measure. Phrasing, dynamics, and timbre play their roles as two become one in breath and heartbeat. When we are at the top of our musical game, we find a strange balance between being incredibly connected and not pondering each other at all! In fact, if I’m thinking about him, something is wrong!
Emotionally, Patrick and I connect through the art of presentation. We are equally exposed in our delivery; it’s a joint effort, a shared pressure and privilege. The music dictates the ebb and flow of our emotions, as does the audience’s response. It is remarkable how much onlookers participate with us. Every person has a unique emotional experience while corporately having the same physical experience.
When a baby cries and distraction is high, there is tension in the air. Determined folks will strive to focus, while others exit emotionally. If the room is motionless, there is an other-worldly calming in process as the Spirit silences the internal noise vying for the listener’s attention. The musician’s goal is to capture every heart and reveal the possibility of its emotions according to the lyric’s message. When the song ends, there is a brief silence; that is everyone’s returning point to the present, including ours.
Spiritually, there is a unity taking place that only the soul can grasp as we give every moment over to the Spirit to guide. When ministry and performance mix, we must fully surrender our wills to what He desires to do with our musical offering. Many times I’ve come down from a platform and thought, “I wish I could have a do over.” But my very next thought is, “No, it’s what the Lord wanted.” And I must leave it there. He always gets to choose. He alone ordains and sustains.
Unlike the six feet of physical distance between Patrick and me, no space exists between the music, the emotions, and the spiritual realm. They are one and so are we.
When my parents attended my college recitals, they delighted in the French pianist who concluded each event. (The best musician performs last.) Who could’ve imagined that that suave, humble, curly-headed Frenchman would delight our family with his presence forever? I am so blessed by the Lord’s merciful providence. I have made many poor decisions, but God was gracious to help me choose the right mate. He gave me the man of my dreams. Patrick doesn’t just fill my musical cup, he is everything that’s good and stable in my life, surpassed only by my Savior.
I always thought I would marry a singer I could sing duets with, but at some point, I realized marrying a pianist was waaaay better. In college, a guest technician at a master class told us vocalists to do anything we could to find a quality accompanist. Patrick and I were engaged. I raised my hand and said, “How about marry one?” Thirty years later, I could not be more grateful that I did.
Happy 30th Anniversary to my Prince!
July 27, 1996
Liked this post? Follow this blog to get more.