During this past year, these kinds of ego-centric threads seems to be on the rise. I come here and learn so much from many of you about our shared musical passion. But as one who more often than not doesn't feel qualified to contribute, I lurk more often than post. For what it's worth, these are the kinds of threads that even I with my limited musical knowledge can participate in.

My grandparents were all Jewish immigrants from Lithuania to America. I identify myself as a Jewish lesbian, since we are in this "coming out" mode.

Musically, I have loved International folk dancing, with the music and dance of Israel, Turkey and the Baltic nations being my favorites. I also enjoy contradance, both the music and dance.

I love Celtic music and have had the priviledge of playing this type of music with other musicians in a band. I consider myself extremely fortunate to have had this fulfilling experience.

Lastly, I'm crazy about classical baroque period music. There's something so orderly about it. I take advantage of the perpetual motion-nature of it by playing it when I do housework. Kind of makes the process bearable, and keeps me going. I'm fond of the use of the circle of fifths, and am especially drawn to pieces in a minor key.

Rose