33 years of teaching beginning orchestra. 1991 - 2024. Tonight was Pete Martin's final orchestra concert as the director at Morton Jr. High School. I love words, but tonight... words fail me.
To hear some beautiful tributes about his impact on students (current and former), co-workers, and our community was so special. The night was perfect. There was laughter, love, and of course... music.
Perhaps God gave us music for this very reason. Sometimes, words are inadequate. Music touches places words can't reach without the aid of a melody. Sometimes, no words are needed when the notes and chords are just right.
The grand finale tonight included our Daughter-in-Love, Emma. She was one of 70 former students who joined in Pete's final performance as director of the MJHS orchestra. "Fiddles on Fire" was the first song he purchased for his students as a new teacher. It was so moving to see people coming from every corner of the gym to pick up an instrument and join in the grand finale. There was a sense of excitement mixed with awe.
Pete's humility and sense of humor were woven into every word spoken about his 33 years at MJHS. He planted the seeds of a lifelong relationship with music for countless students. He taught the value in relationships, and that sounding a little different (or being a little different) is where the beauty and the harmony are found.
"... In ivory palaces the music of strings entertains you." -Psalm 45:8
I am excited for Pete... for his beautiful wife, Laura... and their family to have more of his time in the next chapter. Best wishes, Pete!
Today, I am grateful for Pete Martin.
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