Music plays an important role in our lives and, especially during the Minnesotan winter, provides an essential light and joy.
From marrying musicians to serving on the board at pillars of the Twin Cities’ arts community, music is woven into every aspect of our lives. That’s why this month, Chad Larsen, Barry Berg, Krista Eull, and Deb Shafer are sharing what music means to them.
What role does music play in your life?
Chad: “My father used to play music in the house when we were kids – contemporary music, but also classical orchestra music. So, I gained an appreciation for classical music. On Sundays, he would put on classical records and often organ music. It would echo through the house with its signature sound. I can still remember it to this day.”
Barry: “As a kid, I played the piano, violin, and percussion, as well as singing in various choirs. I believe we all have music – on varying levels – inside us. As a former distance runner, if I was simply quiet, I would discover there was a different song playing inside me every time I ran. Also, my life partner Walter is a musician – pianist and choral director – who plays the piano daily, was for 18 years one of the musical directors at the Basilica of St. Mary’s, sings with the Minnesota Chorale, directs the LeagueAires, a women’s choir, and has been involved as a music director for various musicals and reviews.”
Krista: “Music is essential to me. I would be lost without it. I married a lifelong musician who is currently gigging in five local bands. Needless to say, our history together is based solidly on going to see live music on a regular basis and our house is filled with the sound of music almost daily.”
What are some of your favorite musical artists, playlists, or genres?
Chad: “As a child of the 70’s, my music taste is heavily rooted in mid to late 80’s and early 90’s bands. Since meeting my wife, I have ‘acquired’ a love of country music.”
Barry: “I enjoy a wide range of genres, especially classical, jazz and rock.”
Krista: “I have three playlists on Spotify that I’ve created and listen to frequently: one rock and indie, one jazz, and another folksy ‘Rainy Day in NYC’.”
Deb: “I listen to all genres of music, but tend to always go back to my classics: James Taylor, Bonnie Raitt, Carol King and Carly Simon.”
When and where do you listen to music?
Chad: “I don’t listen as much as I used to. I have all of my music on my phone and will listen sometimes when in the car or at the office.”
Barry: “We regularly attend Minnesota Orchestra performances, but also various choral performances and musicals. I frequently listen while driving to MPR’s 99.5 classical music station, as well as to 97.1, ‘alternative’ contemporary music.”
Krista: “Where: in the car, at home, live shows, on the airplane, on my patio in summer, during my workout at the gym, in the subway, on the street corner, at the farmer’s market. When: anytime, always! How: usually streaming on Spotify.”
Deb: “I pretty much have music playing in the background all day. It’s playing while I’m working or in the car. My granddaughters slept over this past Saturday and we made gingerbread houses and listened to pop holiday music.”
Are you involved with any musical productions or performances?
Chad: “I see musical productions at the Children's Theater Company, of which I am a Board of Governors member. The holiday classic ‘How the Grinch Stole Christmas’ is a perennial favorite – and my heart always grows a bit when I’m in the theatre with so many enthralled children and holiday goers, like me!”
Barry: “I was on the Board of MacPhail Center for Music for 12 years as I recognized the vital role MacPhail plays in building a child’s sense of self esteem and finding purpose in their lives, whether or not they ever pursue musical careers. I seem to attend an average of one or two musical performances weekly, and I’m surrounded by music and musicians with Walter’s active and vibrant career.”
From everyone at the Berg Larsen Group: have a wonderful holiday season full of peace, joy, and music.
Posted by Lizzie Byrne on
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