I am sometimes amazed at the depth and breadth of Margaret Upton Waning's interests and passions. I think we do her a disservice sometimes when first and foremost we say "Grams and Oregon Sports".
She was passionate about her Ducks yes, but also about social causes and reform, her church (Baptist and later Presbyterian), League of Women Voters, Girl Scouts, and theater and music.
Her interest in social reform and music went hand-in-hand.
And when I look at my own collection of CD's, Gram's musical influence is everywhere!
I remember house-sitting one summer and playing all her Harry Belafonte albums for Kristi and Lexa - I think they can sing every song in his Carnegie Hall album.
She loved Tom Jones and Elvis Presley...
and had a special affection for gospel and religious music and musicians...
Jester Hairston, Mahalia Jackson, Paul Robeson, and Odetta.
So lift your voice in song and "make a joyful noise".
Posts
I do indeed know most of the lyrics to many of Harry's songs. I love them. Good memories.
ReplyDelete