Prior to this morning I’d have probably had the same reaction to this as you’ve undoubtedly just had, which is “Who…?” (some of you may have also unwillingly thought of Suggs, but don’t let that little ditty get stuck in your head…). The “who?” was then followed by the curiosity of just how many days of the year can be assigned to a person or cause. But St. Cecilia is, rather appropriately, the patron saint of musicians, and today, the 22nd of November, is her feast day. A feast i’ll prepare in a moment…
My awareness of this has come about through the endeavors of former KLF frontman Bill Drummond and his efforts yesterday (and in the previous two years) to make the 21st of November No Music Day. Originally, he tells us, it was practically a personal affair with very little awareness, but it has began to snowball with BBC Radio Scotland supporting this years efforts, making yesterday a music-less day over the airwaves – for Scotland’s public radio at least. I myself unfortunately failed to adhere to the occasion, what with my laptop and headphones in front of me and a freshly acquired Moha! album I succumbed to temptation. I still however think that, impractical or genius, this day seems to make sense. It made me consciously think, and recognise, my ignorance towards the continual flow of music I feed myself. Then I thought about other music that crosses my path, in shops or in adverts, even the postman whistling his morning chorus. Music is an unavoidable aspect of our culture to the point where it’s presence is all but taken for granted. It has literally become part of the fittings of our society and while I question how possible it is to silence the harmonious elements around us, the effort of a days fasting can really go some way to helping our understanding and appreciation for this wonderfully expressive and meaningful medium.
It is no coincidence that No Music Day should fall on the eve of St. Cecilia’s feast day either. What a wonderful preparation for an overindulgence of music the 21st could be, and for this foresight I raise my beanie to Mr. Drummond. I do think it may be a little too ambitious to be fully realised, but even if it inspires just a moments consideration in folks for music in our environment it may be considered a success.
Back to the point at hand however in that today – the 22nd – is a day for music, and in light of this I have compiled a playlist of some really great songs from amazingtunes for you to lend an ear to (Click here). The styles vary and I’m sure there’s something for everyone in there – with no excuses as to why you haven’t clicked the link, what with it being the 22nd!
A quick mention goes out to Steve Mclaren, unlucky mate! At least we won’t have to go through the unimaginably painful process of deciding on a terribly weak and dull Official England Song for next summer’s European Championships. Like this… [video] ...if only you could see the look of contempt I’m now sporting after having just watched that.
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