I went to a piano concert tonight with a friend. It was a ‘lying concert’ where everybody brought mats and plaids and where you simply lay on the ground during the concert.
The whole day had been quite chaotic: I had been rushing from one point to another, had my proposal presentation, my mid-term exhibition, a quick meal before rushing off to sewing class, went back home to drop off my stuff and then quickly raced to the concert. So when the concert started my head was still full of everything that I needed to do and shouldn’t forget, about small worries and distracting thoughts.
At that point I just knew that right now there wasn’t place for those thoughts. Tomorrow maybe, when I would be able to catch up and get some work done, but for now, I just wanted to enjoy. And that’s what I did.
As I was lying on the ground and staring at the ceiling, my thoughts faded in and out while the music kept on playing.
I glanced around, and everybody just looked so peaceful, snuggled up in blankets, eyes closed, shoes kicked out, dim light, melodious notes, just a room full of people and two grand pianos. And I just couldn’t help but think how awesome all of it was. We are able to hear sounds. The physical world has certain mechanisms that make that we are able to make sense of those sounds and distinguish many different ones. But it doesn’t stop there. Somehow, when we bring many different tones and sounds together in a melodious and harmonious way, it goes beyond the ‘simple functionality’ of hearing. We can appreciate those sounds, get carried away by them, express ourselves with them and get feelings by listening to them. We can make a whole room of people silent, and simply bring them to that same room for the one and only goal of listening. Simply lying down and listening.
Everything slowed down a bit in that moment. And it was good just like that. I was on the ground on a random week night and simply listening. And it didn’t need to be anything more than that.
I realize I am rambling a bit, but perhaps music does that to people sometimes. I just wanted to share this little moment of my day with you. The world is a curious place…
10 Comments
Lynn
March 23, 2012 at 00:20
I love all your polka dots — so cute! I am about halfway finished with a polka dot quilt. There is something just so happy about those dots :) I’ve never heard of a lying down concert, but it sounds like it would be really fun, and a completely different way to experience music.
Magical Day Dream
March 26, 2012 at 06:53
Woah I would love a polka dot quilt! And I am totally with you on the happy part ;)
Janna Renee
March 23, 2012 at 03:38
That sounds like such a FANTASTIC evening, and what a cool concept! I really wish that I could play piano. I need to learn. I love your header, by the way. Quite lovely <3
Magical Day Dream
March 26, 2012 at 06:54
I can play the piano, but not nearly as good as anything I heard that evening haha
Loulou
March 24, 2012 at 01:39
This experience sounds like it was simply wonderful and so very relaxing. I would love to go to such a concert.
Loulou
Magical Day Dream
March 26, 2012 at 06:54
It was certainly was :)
hmuxo
March 25, 2012 at 21:38
It sounds like a wonderful night! Something that everyone should do once in awhile!! Glad you decided to just enjoy the moment!!!
Magical Day Dream
March 26, 2012 at 06:54
I agree!
Eleni
March 26, 2012 at 10:16
That sounds like the perfect way to end a hectic day – and what a brilliant idea for a piano concert! Was it indoors? I imagine lying on a blanket under the stars would make for an unforgettable concert :)
Magical Day Dream
March 27, 2012 at 22:02
It was indoors yes. But I once went to a piano concert outdoors as well. you are right, they should combine the two that would be so awesome!