“Music is a powerful communication that we use to share intense emotions and cherished memories, create and celebrate lasting bonds, to express what we sometimes cannot speak. I’m so very grateful for the last two decades of using music to do all these things (and more) professionally; so much so that it’s become a very spiritual practice.
Though I need no further proof or reassurance that what I do is indeed valuable, not only to me but to everyone who engages with it, providing music for the dying has been the most clearly defined and moving expression of the need and benefit of music. To witness the joy and celebration of a life well-lived, to grieve with those who are losing loved ones, to help families and friends release and move through the fear of loss and death, to provide the comforting embrace of sound to the dying; these are the reasons that prove beyond the shadow of doubt that music is paramount in our spiritual understanding and movement through our lives.
Swan Songs is doing saintly work … not only for those listening but for those performing. I am so very grateful to this beautiful organization, its founders, its staff, its volunteers, and its providers for the gift they offer to all involved. I am so grateful, humbled, and deeply honored to be involved with the dying and their families.
I have left concerts in tears, in thankful peace, in buoyant happiness, in soothing and calm reflection, spiritually redirected and realigned. Each concert is its own very personal experience, each recipient and family in their own unique place; each concert helps me to grow and become a better, more aware, and compassionate being. Each concert is a moment to become more mindfully connected.
If I may be so bold:
On behalf of every musician that shares their soul and lends their love in your effort, Thank You!
Please don’t stop this incredibly important, precious, priceless service you're so kindly, sweetly providing.
Can’t say it enough, Thank You!”
- Ryan Gould
