A Proclivity for Pop

I consider my taste in music to be unusually well-rounded. I listen to Frank Sinatra, Bing Crosby and Ella Fitzgerald. I'm a minor fan of Willie Nelson and Hank Williams. I like the Beatles and the Beach Boys, and am quite fond of the Eagles and U2. I like musicals and I like Billy Idol.

Because my taste in music spans decades (and generations!) I have always thought of my taste in music as being "grown up." But after reading a post on John Mark Reynolds' old blog about a month ago, I've been reconsidering. (As a sidenote, I think that this is how I usually make major conclusions about things in my life. An idea is planted and somehow wriggles itself under my skin where it festers for days until I'm forced to deal with it. And by then, I've already made up my mind.) I like the music that my grandfather liked...when he was a teenager. I like the music my uncles liked...when they were teenagers. I'm stuck in a post-pubescent musical rut. And I want out.

I got a new car stereo a few weeks ago and still don't have it quite figured out. Yesterday, I accidentally reset all my stations. In flipping through my new stations, I stumbled upon Capitol Public Radio. In addition to playing great classical music, the afternoon DJ has a delightful British accent.

And so...March has become Music Month. Specifically, if I'm able to swing by Borders to use a gift card, March will be Mozart Month. I want to start learning about good music. Music that isn't just fun poetry set to music, but music with depth. Music that has inspired music throughout time. Maybe I'll even rent Amadaeus.

Here's to Mozart!