From my Grandmother Flora's memoirs:

She is talking about the early days in Boulder, Colorado and the surrounding area

In Longmont lived a jolly fat musician. He had only one leg, but that did not keep him from getting around the country. He soon came through organizing a music class. He had pupils from Longmont to Louisville -- three of them from our house -- Ida, Myrta and Anna.

He came once a week, always reaching our house at noon. We did not mind, for always after dinner he entertained us with his music. He could make the organ shiver and shake. He would pull out all the stops and spread out the bellows, then push them in as he played. He had a good voice and would sometimes sing a rousing song such as "The Hare and the Hounds."

This was applied on our music lessons. He gave the girls an hour each which took most of the afternoon. He also gave them vocal lessons. He made them put wooden pegs between their teeth to keep their mouths open while they sang. I would never leave the house while he was there, for I was fascinated with his music.

One day when he was beating time for the lesson I slipped behind the door (out of sight, I thought) and began waving my arms beating time just as he did. He happened to look that way and saw me. His hearty laugh just rolled, and I ran. He told Mother he would like to give me lessons free of charge if she would let him. He had spoiled it all by laughing at me. I would not go near him after that. That was the only chance I ever had to become a musician.

© 1983 Youmans/Hudson Family Trust All Rights Reserved

I might add that Flora made sure all of her children had music lessons and she had a beautiful voice, herself. Every one of her children, my mom included, were wonderful musicians.

kat