I looked up the song, "Could it Be Magic" and found out that the introduction and ending were based on Frederic Chopin's Prelude in C Minor. Manilow had spent an afternoon playing Chopin music, and this piece inspired him to write his song.

Exposure to art and music has filled my life with beauty and joy and an intensity that allows me to feel a connection to the Divine.

In these uncertain and difficult times, making space for music, whether you play an instrument or not, can transport you to a place of calm, happiness, and peace.

From time immemorial humans have waged war against the darkness. And, Enlightenment materialism has ironically led us to evade nature rather than embrace it.

With a haunting melody that includes descending notes, Prelude in E Minor is one of the most iconic of all time. Expressive and moving, Chopin actually requested that it be played at his funeral.

This past year I chose to study Kuhlau's Sonatina Opus 55 No. 3 for piano. The music is light and joyful with an almost dancelike quality. And, the piece is full of staccato notes and chord progressions called "runs".

For me, the allure of Romantic music is its gracefulness and character. It is often praised as the poetry of music.

I often watch YouTube videos of professionals playing whatever piano pieces I'm about to learn. But, listening to outstanding musicians also reminds me of my own shortcomings. Perfectionist that I am, playing the wrong notes sends me into quite a tizzy.