Ebony & Ivory in Harmony

I’ve got a soft spot for the piano. Over the years, I remember vividly some of my favourite movies like Michael Nyman’s The Piano, Scott Hicks’ Shine and just yesterday, Jingle Ma’s Happy Birthday.

For the uninitiated I’d spent my entire growing up years struggling with the instrument, and not because of the gruelling piano practises. I lived with an aunt who conducted private piano lessons. Some days, I’d curse at the repetitive scales, made more unbearable by the ineptitude of disinterested students. Other times, I’d lap up all of Richard Clayderman’s Ballade Pour Adeline. I could even hum the exam pieces by heart. The strange thing was I’d never formally learnt it, although I believe I can still manage Chopsticks (not unlike typing with two fingers).

When I was about 12 (rather late in the day), my dad asked if I’d wanted to have a go at it. And I think I got cold feet just by watching the learning process executed by my aunt. I gave a flat no (no pun intended).

My next close encounter with the piano was in a Chesterfield cottage back in 1998. (read the other side of the story). In the entertainment room there sat an upright piano. One particular English lad was playing. And believe me I was making small talk. Being typical Singaporean I’d asked, “Which is the highest grade you’d attained?” Only then did I realise people actually learnt to play the piano not because of the coveted certificate but because they wanted to!!

In the meantime I fell in love with the harpsichord. Which resembled an embellished piano but the metallic thuds are music to the ears. And then there’s the pipe organ and accordion. I can’t explain this love for ivory and ebony keys.



Picture ripped from www.moviexclusive.com

Perhaps it’s O’s birthday coming up this week. That is why the movie Happy Birthday, adapted (with Sylvia Chang’s input) from lead actress Rene Liu’s latest literary work I Want To Go With You hit all the ‘right’ notes in me. The lyrics of the theme song by acclaimed Lin Xi encapsulates perfectly the lingering what-ifs of has-been loves. How gradually passionate Valentine greetings turn into platonic Birthday wishes. And how year after year (and perhaps for eternity) we look forward and ensure these birthday wishes are sent.

excerpt

对你的思念
三百六十五天
我只等 这一天
勇敢地 把从前
情人节快乐
变成 祝你生日快乐

让挂念 代替了 相处
瞬间是永远 谈情变祝福
可惜 甜言 也带苦...

Happy Birthday To You, my dear.