This is a bittersweet posting. On Thursday, September 15th, I donated all of Joyce’s band instruments to her old high school in Babbitt. There were a couple of euphoniums (her favorite instruments), a trombone, a coronet, a clarinet and a keyboard. One of the things I wanted to happen was to make sure that they knew 1) that she was an alumnus who cared about her home town, 2) that she was an accomplished musician, and 3) that even in a small town the people who grew up there do not forget their roots.
Music was a staple in our household. It certainly was not because of me ( I would be the tone deaf one of the family). But Joyce instilled the love of music not only in our son but also our grandchildren.
Joyce could have played in any band she would have chosen. The bands she did play in always appreciated her skill. And I always enjoyed listening to her play.
So, with this donation there is hope that a future alumnus from the Babbitt High school will be inspired to learn to appreciate the gift of music that he/she can give to others, if for no other reason than to bring happiness to anyone who takes the time to listen.
