My classical appreciation started in middle school. Much was due to my mother’s interests. While a busy mom and piano teacher, she started a master’s in music pedagogy. Her classes during late afternoons allowed me to tag along to campus. I used the time to visit the college library to listen to classical LP’s. I was fascinated to discover familiar melodies and put composers to pieces.
She also subscribed to the symphony several seasons, and I often went along. Our orchestra hosted many touring soloists, and I enjoyed hearing world-class artists. They performed in the ornate Paramount Theatre, restored to its 1928 grandeur.
I also began listening to public radio stations and broadened my exposure to the classics, and I have listened ever since. My classical moment took several years, and it continues to grow.