Mary,

It's and interesting concept to assume that music and art are "trivial"...but I don't accept it.

I actually think that music and art are at least as powerful, and as much a need in the human soul as politics/science/religion.

In my mind, when this kind of "perspective check" is suggested, I remember a few instances where my point of view is validated.
I remember the story of a jewish violinist, saved from execution during WW2 because of a German officer's need for music.
A few years ago there was a Glenn Close movie about a group of POW's who transcended their conditions with music.
Our own history is rich with people finding significant and worthwhile ways of interacting with their fellow man because of music.
When Bill Clinton invited James Taylor to give him a personal concert (while visiting on Martha's vineyard)---In my mind I couldn't help but feel as though James Taylor was the more powerful of the two men---he certainly has done more to bless the human condition.
Finally, on this forum in the last few days, a story was shared of music being used in NY as a "Balm in Gilead"

I think it's an easy thing to fall into thinking that what we talk about here is of relative unimportance when compared to socio/political events that seem to shape our history.......but give me art any day and I'll shape the human soul.

Jeri,
Yeah, I want> to hear stories of, "Oh I remember when I first heard..." or "I find that when I play an A chord, if I..." or ".......

And I do want people to take as much care to respond (that means READ, as well as POST), to the music threads.