You should have been there — or not! Just imagine 25 people, ranging in age from about 10 to tottering, accompanied by a guitar, two trumpets, sleigh bells and even a clanging school bell, singing a highly varied collection of Christmas songs. Although quality was not first priority, enthusiasm and spirit more than compensated, aided at least in part by alcoholic refreshment that helped to loosen any reluctant vocal chords. The audience consisted of people in our little community who were either unable or not inclined to spend a mild winter’s evening trying to make music while walking from building to building. The overall effect might have been best summed up by my wife Patty who succinctly observed, “Now that was somethin’.”

In reality, it was something — and something special. No, the music was nothing to write home about or to capture on CD for future enjoyment, and from a technical standpoint the singing left quite a bit to be desired. But there were smiles, there was laughter, and people shared some time together — each saying that this was a tradition worth preserving.

I’m reminded of when I was a little guy singing in the choir at my elementary school. We’d visit people in nursing homes and hospitals. Perhaps they were chosen because they could hardly get away if they had wanted to. And we would sing. We’d sing loudly and with such spirit that the echoes sound in my brain to this day. I hope they enjoyed it, but whether they did or not it felt good to me. It still does.

So next year when December rolls around, I’ll make sure I have a clear space on our calendar so that we can strap on guitars and trumpets and join with a group of neighbors to make a joyful noise. Merry Christmas — Bob Tatum

Sound Traveler had a great show at the Radisson in Cape Canaveral. We met so many nice people, and we look forward to making a return trip in the future. We continued our Christmas Lunch Tour at Smokehouse Foods in Port Canaveral. It was chilly, but people were friendly. Jackie and her staff were charming as they braved the cool breeze to listen to us play.

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2 Comments to “SongTravelin’: 12.24.10 — Joyful Noise!”

• December 23, 2010 at 6:30 pm
  Laurence says:

  I’ve always enjoyed caroling for some unknown reason. I don’t think I’d do it at any other time than once at Christmas. It’s weirdly fun.
• December 23, 2010 at 10:21 pm
  Kay says:

  Our church’s caroling is just about my favorite thing about the season.