Where would we be without music?

I often used to wonder as a child, which I would rather not do without (nay could not do without even!), music.. or the beauty of a stunning sunset or other scene of natural beauty. Of course, given that Nature is endlessly recreating herself and that even a simple cornfield looks completely different from one day, hour, or even minute to another, depending on the light and how the wind weaves its way through it, not to mention what the insects, birds and other players in the pastoral scene are up to, I don't think this question will ever really have a conclusive answer for me.

However last night's amazing performances by Diana Krall and Chris Botti (not to mention the hugely talented members of their respective jazz bands) reminded me how indescribably inspiring music can be, especially in the hands (and vocal cords) of such gifted people! Dad, M and I were at Wolftrap, a beautiful outdoor concert venue in Virginia, run most efficiently by the US National Park Service. We managed to secure ourselves a perfect spot on the lawn right in front of some enormous speakers and with a good view of the stage. From the word go, Chris Botti held us in thrall, producing sounds with his trumpet that sounded more like the human voice than a brass instrument. Then when Diana Krall came on in the second half, bemoaning the temporary misplacement of her 'old body' after the recent birth of her twin boys (heck - I don't know what she 's complaining about.. she still looks amazing!), she upped the tempo with a string of jazz numbers inspired by Nat King Cole, proving that she is just as talented a pianist as she is a vocalist (if not more so). The crowning moment though, was her flawless rendition of Joni Mitchell's "A Case of You", stripped down to bare piano and vocals. You could literally hear the proverbial pin drop. Yes, when it comes to you, Music (especially as performed by the likes of Ms. Krall!), I really think I could "drink a case of you, and still be on my feet."