The Feast of St. Cecilia

Today is the feast day of St. Cecilia, patron saint of church musicians (I got this picture from Wikipedia, which says it's in the common domain; the painter is Botticini, who has been dead for centuries). St. Cecilia is also the patron saint of music and musicians of all kinds.

So, if you're a church-going sort, celebrate this feast day by thanking your church musicians. Many of them are working for small salaries (or for free), and they probably don't hear many words of thanks.



If you're not a church-going sort, celebrate the day by listening to music.



If you're in the Ft. Lauderdale area, you could actually make music! The Broward folk music group has a Jam in the Park today from 2-5 at Secret Woods Park (2701 W. State Rd. 84Dania Beach, FL 33312). You don't need to be a musical expert--just show up and enjoy the music. Bring an instrument, if you play, and feel free to sing along.

You could add musical events to your calendar. Support those musicians by going to concerts and buying CDs. Support independent artists by giving their CDs as presents. If you're in the Ft. Lauderdale area, put this concert on your calendar:

Trinity Lutheran Church is excited to host award-winning folk duo Alathea in town for a stop on their Christmas Concert tour. The duo will perform on Saturday, Dec. 19, at 7:30 p.m., and their music will appeal to a wide range of people: singer-songwriter fans, bluegrass lovers, and people in a holiday mood. Tickets cost $12 for adults, $5 for children if purchased in advance ($15 and $7 at the door). Stay afterwards for dessert and a chance to meet the group. CDs will be on sale. For more information please contact Trinity Lutheran Church at (954) 989-1903. To find out more about the group, go here.