March 2008 - Tolerance

I never dreamed I'd learn the true meaning of "tolerance" from my nine year old, nor from anything having to do with music.

My daughter has very different musical tastes than does Dad. She is a big fan of the rhythm mix and modern music genres. As soon as she gets in the car, she only has one question, "Is it working?" By that, she means can she turn it to "her" stations. Certainly, the long circle of when I used to drive my father nuts with "hippie rock" to now has become completed.

In my father's day, I could never understand why he would want to listen to Porter Wagoner and Johnny Cash. In today's world, however, many young people, especially those of college age, simply adored Cash and Porter in their later years and even made them "cult heroes." I still want to have a conversation with one of these college folks and understand what made them dig these guys so much, besides their obvious talent. In my younger days, we had "our music" and our folks had "theirs." I'm glad to see those lines have been erased, but I wonder the mechanics behind it.

I am also glad that I diversified as I aged, to let in certain types of music, say Sinatra, which I wouldn't have been caught with then for the world.

Speaking of college and music, have you ever attended one of Glenville State College's bluegrass shows? Glenville State actually boasts a course of study in the genre, and is fortunate to have Professor Buddy Griffin, a fine musician in his own right, sharing with the young. I attended a show last fall, taking along the aforementioned "rhythmic daughter", and was amazed by the show. Being quite familiar with the "New Ground" band and "Mountain Fury," I already expected a real treat before I got there and wasn't disappointed.

Some people consider bluegrass as music for "old mountain folks", and never get to experience the true wonder of a show such as this one was. Not only were the music and vocals amazing, but also the friendly casual nature of the performers made it a "show." The ladies of Mountain Fury are products of the program at Glenville State have their second CD available. It's called "Americans and Apple Pie," and I am a strong supporter of this group of very talented and charming young women. Best of all, I caught my young daughter enthralled to the point of tapping her toes to the music. Hoping for a positive review, I asked her if she had enjoyed it. Being very tolerant, she said it was "pretty good." Not good enough to do away with the need for "rhythm," mind you, but a start. Watch this column for upcoming show dates.

My point of tolerance is to urge taking the time to share something that you love. Share the music, but most of all, share the way of life with someone who will be forever grateful once you do. Slowing that pace betters lives on the two-lane….

Brad Moyers, of Burnsville, is an eight-year radio broadcaster, a deeply devoted student of music of several genres and writes as a hobby. He offers a glimpse into the broadcast music business, its history and happenings, from the perspective of someone who makes a living doing what they love. Readers may contact Brad by e-mail at brad.moyers@yahoo.com.