This musing is being sent out a few days ahead of schedule because of this year’s calendar. Passover is this Wednesday and it’s going to be a strange one with the social distancing “plague” we are forced to live in these trying days, weeks, and months. But, living must go on and, hopefully, your Seder table won’t be empty this year.
I am dipping, once again, into my trove of musings I have posted over the past few years to serve as the foundation of this latest one. So, here we go!
I am not Jewish but I have many friends and family who are. As a result, I have attended many Passover Seders over the years. I have always found the marriage of faith, tradition, history, and continuity both meaningful and moving.
Unlike the musical secularization of Easter—with bunnies, egg rolls, and parades—Passover seems to have retained its focus and its dignity. Even the fidgety children who make faces over the bitter herbs will come to cherish the tradition with their own children.
I am old enough to have seen this happen more than once!
So, no funny ukulele thoughts today. Just a reminder that there is beautiful music out there for a beautiful life moment and, yes, your ukulele can be part of this.
Here is a ukulele tutorial for a traditional Passover song. Tap or click on the next image to give it a try.
And, while it’s not particular to Passover, here is an easy ukulele TAB for the national anthem of Israel—“Hatikvah.” This solo version for ukulele works really well and has a haunting Levantine melodic line. Give it a try.
So, I hope your Passover Seder–no matter what form it must take this year–brings you and yours together in your own ways. Meanwhile, STAY TUNED!
NOHOBANJO OF NORTHAMPTON, AND NOW EASTHAMPTON, "MUSICAL MUSINGS" 