It's in the Genes

 By Debra DuPree Williams @DDuPreeWilliams

By now, you all know that I’m the family genealogist. This isn’t something I ever saw myself doing, but since my sister and I set out about twenty-five years ago in search of our roots, most of our family members have looked to me for answers. I usually have an answer to their questions and if I don’t, I try my best to find one.

Being the genealogist of the family has led me to all manner of info. I’ve discovered genes that have been passed down for at least twelve or more generations. For instance, my Lanier ancestors were musicians and instrument makers. Nicholas Lanier, the younger, my first cousin eight times removed, was the master of the King’s music in the court of English Kings. I have many cousins who are musically talented. I and my sons also have been blessed with an extraordinary ability with music. Three of my sons are bassoonists and one plays professionally.

Music Is a Fair and Glorious Gift of God

By Debra DuPree Williams @DDuPreeWilliams

This has been a week in which my life was enriched by a musical experience. That isn’t unusual since I am a musician, but I had the privilege of hearing the Tampa Bay Symphony play their last concert of the year. They were joined by Jeffrey Multer, Concert Master of the Florida Orchestra. He played Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto in D Major, Opus 35. I wish you had been there, as it was a superb performance by Mr. Multer and the symphony members. That performance brought to mind the quote that is the title of this post. In doing a search for its origins, I found these quotes, all by Martin Luther. The title of this post is also attributed to him.