A Miracle

I am sure someone more eloquent than I will write a piece sharing what we at the DSO had the privilege of witnessing, experiencing today. But, I can't wait to share...We witnessed what some might call a miracle. One year ago, we witnessed the start of this miracle, in fact we might have even been the catalyst for it. Music is so powerful. I don't think we can ever fully understand how music can touch the soul, mind, emotions, spirit and even the physical body. But, oh!!! It sure does, understood or not. Thank God for music. And, thank God for an organization willing to extend that healing power to those not usually able to attend traditional concerts.

One year ago, several special needs kids along with their families attended a rehearsal. At the end, one of the kids, Conner, came up to the stage and had the chance to conduct us. He was attached to his security pillow, hunched down, fearful, hiding. The music started and eventually he stood up straighter. He began to more fully experience the sounds around him and even made eye contact with a few of us. Little by little the pillow fell to the ground. Conner was totally immersed in the experience. There were many of us on stage moved to tears at the transformation happening before us. We felt so rewarded to do what we love to do and witnessing it's impact.

A whole year has gone by. Today, we had another such rehearsal with kids from Stony Creek Schools, and Conner was back. His dad spoke to us before Conner's second debut on the podium. It was incredible to hear the account of this past year's journey and how Conner's life has completely transformed. Evidently, there is hardly a minute that goes by where Conner isn't holding a baton. Daily, he sets up his animals in the shape of an orchestra and conducts them as if they are us. He seriously practices conducting, and it sure paid off. Conner couldn't wait to get on the stage today. We smiled as he walked through the podium rather than around. He tapped on the stand to get our attention. And then he began, and so did we. Once again the tears are streaming down my face and by body is buzzing with the sheer gratitude of what is transpiring in front of me. A miracle. Conner received a new baton today as his last one had gotten "a little shorter" over the past year due to its unending use.

(Anastasia-after her debut, Conner and conductor, Michelle Merrill. https://m.facebook.com/detroitsymphony/)

I am so proud of Conner, of his family, and of MY family, the Detroit Symphony Orchestra who consistently show we care about what is truly important. I look forward to more opportunities like this. I am hoping that whomever might read this can share with all you might know that serves the special needs community. There was plenty of room in the hall for more children like Conner and students from Stony Creek to be immersed in the power, majesty and healing that music can offer. And while not everyone would make it up to the stage to conduct, to experience music live is life impacting just the same.

Please share this with those who can lead our special needs families to these events.

Brian Frazee is the person to direct inquiries about upcoming related events and express interest. His email is:

bfrazee@dso.org

Last year our music director, Leonard Slatkin, wrote an article for the Huffington Post expressing how he felt at this rehearsal.

Here is the link to that article.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/leonard-slatkin/a-lesson-for-all_b_8222136.html

Thank you for sharing this. I want to touch as many families as we can with what music does best, played by people with big hearts for our audience and community. DSO, I'm so proud of you!

Kim Kaloyanides Kennedy

Associate Concertmaster

Detroit Symphony Orchestra