I’m sort of a pianist, or at least I like to think of myself as such. It’s my favorite pass time…other than sleeping.
My love for pianos, keyboards, and everything in between has led me to many different places around campus. So, I figured I would trace my journey across WashU’s campus in search of a new companion. Now, with that out of the way…
It all began during the summer of 2018,
the air was dry and hot, the sun blazing down on the gravel pavement, and I, with a trickle of sweat upon my brow, craved for a mental reprieve. I found myself in the multimedia room set within the basement of Mudd dorm—a dimly lit room with nothing but space, and to my surprise, a grand piano standing off in a corner. The painted keys were scratched and peeled. It called out to me, and I could do nothing but comply.
[playing softly] Look for the bare necessities…
From that point, I made it a mission to find the best piano on campus in which to be entralled and encaptured by a sweet song.
The simple bare necessities.
Forget about your worries and your strife.
This desire led me to a small sitting room
in the Danforth University Center (a.k.a. the DUC). There I found an organ, in peak condition, casually leaning against the wall. Rays of sunshine filtering through a window caressed her keys. In her, I discovered a newfound light as she belted out every notes as if it was her last, with so much tenderness and power. As I was lost in song, a voice interrupted me and asked for a turn at practicing and playing. I hesistantly obliged.
I mean the bare necessities,
Old Mother Nature’s recipes
that bring the bare necessities of life.
I needed a new sound…
This was when I came into contact with Tietjens hall. And—just like that—with its countless glass rooms, each holding a different piano forte with a unique design and voice…
It became my refuge.
The bare necessities of life will come to you.
