flohaus

Are you the kind of person who, once hearing a song is automatically transported to a different time or place? Where even the smells and feelings are suddenly so vivid, it’s as if you’re back there again?  I’m like that.  It’s like an affliction at times because the emotional connection to that time and place are not always pleasant. But, that musical experience aside, I believe that a harmonious live or work environment doesn’t just include well placed furniture and great colours; it also includes an ambiance that you can create with music.

A friend once asked “how’s the music at home?”.  I thought he was speaking metaphorically, but he wasn’t. Music is so important when creating a mood.  You know what I mean if you’ve watched an old Bond film. What’s the first thing that happens when Double “O”  seduces his co-star?  The lights are dimmed and sexy music comes on.  Successful retailers understand how to create activity, enthusiasm and quick purchasing by using fast upbeat music. This is also referred to as making the energy more Yang. Imagine putting on a sound in the morning that makes your children get dressed for school faster!  Now that’s what I’m talking about.

Music has the power to create the most incredible feelings of love, joy and intense pain.  It can stimulate parts of your brain that in turn open up a world of creativity you thought never  existed.  Just listen to any piece of classical music, such as Beethoven’s Ode To Joy and be transformed and enlightened to the story it tells.

Or, if a good cry is what you need, try Barber’s Agnus Dei.  The first time I heard this was years ago in the AGO atrium played by the Toronto Symphony Orchestra.  I had to ask the children to go on ahead of me, I was so transfixed.  The second time was when I watched Platoon.

If you need a calm soothing feeling to hush the noise of a stressful day, try Enya’s Watermark. I listened to this album, yes I said album, during my pregnancy with my first son.

Music is so important in my house. Besides the piano and rare sound of guitar playing, you will always hear some music or experience a spontaneous “mosh pit”. I’ve often thought of compiling a 24 hour soundtrack for different types of days. And one day, I just might do it too!

But for now you’ll have to settle for Philipe Starck’s 24 hour mix by Soundwalk.

Simply divine sounds.  I guess I’ll have to get that iphone now!

How’s the music in your home?

Wishing you a wonderful Grammy Awards weekend!