For this post, it did occur to me to start a new thread in music; then on second thought, decided to leave the post in this thread. An earlier post mentioned that a compact disc was playing, the tune was Gaelic, but the soprano and pianist were performing an arrangement that turned it into a companion for arias and art songs; and hearing it triggered recall of the unhappiness of my student years in classical music.

I had the good fortune to audition for and be accepted into a summer program where young musicians became apprentices at a working opera house, I won't say which one. Sounds unusual for an introvert, but I was a keyboard player, not a singer/actor, and it's possible to work in that very intense drama atmosphere behind the scenes and still be un-dramatic, many musicians do. That summer propelled me out of classical music altogether which was actually a positive thing. Firstly, I needed professional help and needed to stop over-working and stuffing my feelings. Secondly, I needed to face facts about the classical music patronage in the good old U.S. People with deep pockets keep the system going, and being sponsored by the wealthy and power-hoarding contributors makes for an unhealthy situation. Sure you get the attention given the hothouse plant that would not survive outside, so you don't lack for care and comforts; but where is everybody? you know? These aren't my people here.

I'm going somewhere with this, but I have to post this and come back later. Thanks for listening.