I've sung literally my whole life. At age 4-5, I was ring-bearer and soloist at a number of local weddings, in my hometown of Fairmont, West Virginia. Of course, I sang at church, as most African-American kids of my generation did. I also sang and/or played piano at various local social and civic events (live and on radio), and at music recitals; and even participated in a few local talent contests.
In the mid-1960s, my family re-located to Philadelphia (during the '60s and '70s, a major hub for Gospel choral singing). In my junior and senior high school years, my music abilities continued to grow and develop; not only as a singer/pianist, but also even expanding to encompass choral singing and choir direction. And by the age of 15-16, my song-writing journey had already began.
As you might imagine, there's been an appreciable 'trail' of song-writing and music composition since then; primarily used in my own choral seminar and workshop work, as a vocal and choir coach. But I have never really shared very much about this God-given gift and the process of music creation I experience. That's the idea behind this blog.
The 'journey' - from the first little 'inkling' (thought or inspiration), to the 'finished product' - is so incredibly fascinating to me, still! A literal
'miracle ' that I've been blessed to experience, throughout my life, time and time again! ...A true gift, and I am so extremely grateful and humbled that I've been given this remarkable ability! It has always inspired and motivated me to seek to be a 'channel' through which God might reach the spirit and soul of those whom my music might reach. To hopefully help bring about - at the least - a sense, an awareness, of 'the Creator'; and of what is quite actually possible for and available to us, as believers!
In this blog, I will be sharing a glimpse of how the music I 'hear' and am given, comes to fruition. As I've said, I am fascinated by the spiritual process and result!
THANK YOU for coming along on this journey, even if only for a while! ...But, it goes without saying: "The 'further', the better", of course! :-)
My hope and prayer is that you will find something in these posts that 'speaks' to you; that inspires and encourages you; something that 'lifts' your spirit; enpowers you; brings you joy! This is my experience (remember, I'm on the receiving end of this, just like everyone else!), and I am happy to share some of these creative insights and observations with you!
The Lord bless us all!
Sincerely,
Raye
PS: If you'd ever like to respond to something I've shared, please FEEL FREE to leave a comment, below the post! It would be great for me (and others) to share in your thoughts, as well. Thanks, in advance!