There are people who play music and then there are musicians. People who are so wrapped up in the emotion and struggle and hopes life can bring that they have no choice but to share those with you through music.
I’ve met a lot of both. I’ve probably seen more than my fair share of shows and at this point, it takes quite a bit to move me. Last night, Glen Hansard managed to make it to the list of tops. Not every musician can play in a way that’s both playful and sincere, harsh yet gentle. But I walked away full of respect for him and his music.
He has a way of making you feel like he has a genuine relationship with everyone on stage (including a section of strings and horns) but also that you as an audience member matter, too. He doesn’t say it out loud or even overtly hint at it. He just does.
Both the hubby and I left inspired. Reminded that music matters. Storytelling can reveal truths and feelings far beneath the surface. Creativity encourages more creativity. Engagement transcends isolation.
He ended the show with an Irish folk song and asked everyone in the audience to sing along as we repeated the chorus in between verses. Members of the crew were invited leave their sound boards and designated spots on stage to each come and sing a verse. The notes weren’t all perfect and it didn’t always make sense, but that’s not what music is about. It’s not what life is about. We all got to sing along to be a part of something simple, something bigger than ourselves and it was hauntingly beautiful all on its own.
