My theme for the Blogging from A to Z challenge is Creativity. Today’s letter “x” is a difficult one in this challenge. But I chose “xylophone” because music is another way to express your creativity, and to share your passion with others.
As a kid, I played the organ. My mother wanted to get a piano, but apparently my father found a deal on the organ, so there ya go. I enjoyed playing it, though. I went to a Catholic grade school and got to play the big pipe organ in the choir loft at the rear of the church.
I wished I’d continued to play as I got older. The piano is my favorite instrument to listen to, and I’d love to be able to play it now. I took lessons several years ago (I was pleased I could still read music), but I just didn’t have the time to put into all the practicing, etc. And my creative energy and time is now directed at my writing.
I know some writers who are inspired by listening to music while they write. That’s too distracting for me, although in high school I’d have rock and roll blasting while I did my homework.
I love listening to all sorts of music, and it can fill me with different emotions, whether it excites me and makes me want to get up and dance or brings me to tears because it’s so beautiful. When that happens, I know the writer or composer has poured his or her passion into the song.
What style of music do you enjoy? Do you sing or play an instrument?
Linda Covella, Author 
As I was telling Andrea on her blog recently, I enjoy any music that grabs a hold of me tightly with either the music or lyrics. I’m with you on the background listening. I can’t do that while I write, as I get caught up in the song and it’ s all over.
Silvia, I don’t know how those writers do it. One of my critique partners picks certain music depending on what story/genre she’s working on.
I enjoy different kinds of music. I play a few instruments (piano, guitar, recorder…) and, like you, while I love music, I can’t listen to music and do anything creative (e.g., writing). When I need my brain’s full attention, music is too distracting. I end up listening to the music, and not engaged in whatever else I’m supposed to be doing. 🙂
Colin, so cool you play those instruments! Thanks for your comment and visiting my blog!
I ended up in band by accident, but decided to stay and wanted to play the sax, but my mom had a clarinet so that’s what I ended up playing. It was fun. I can’t listen to music while writing though. It distracts me too much.
~Patricia Lynne~
Story Dam
Patricia Lynne, YA Author
Patricia, the sax is my second favorite instrument to listen to. Cool that you played the clarinet, though!
I read music and play piano. I also sing.
I enjoy different styles of music – classical, jazz, contemporary… and sometimes I use classical music to keep the “creative juices” flowing…
Michelle, you’re so lucky to have that talent! I added my caption to your “Yearbook” cartoon. 🙂
I like all genres of music and find inspiration from it, but when i write I usually require silence. I may start with music playing in the background, but I often turn the volume down or off to hear the voices of my characters, unless it’s classical. I can play the piano (self taught and not well). Other than listening to my husband sing and play the guitar, the piano and the cello are my favorite musical instruments.
So cool you taught yourself to play, and that your husband is musical. The cello is nice, too.