Presidents Who Played Piano: Musical Presidents
Musical Presidents: Presidents Who Played Piano
Most people agree that playing piano is not just a fun way to spend your time; but it can boost mental sharpness which enhances your overall wellness and awareness. To this effect, many have not shied away from playing the piano and learning the elements therein in a bid to attain perfection. The piano elicits joyous emotion; even presidents cannot resist. The love affair with the piano for many presidents is in public domain. In fact, presidents like Richard Nixon and Harry S. Truman did not hesitate to perform publicly showcasing their infinite love for the piano. The following is a highlight of performances by these former musical presidents – the audiences could not help but admire and applaud their leaders as they were all mesmerized by the marvels of piano music.
President Richard Nixon will be remembered for sizzling crowds as he communicated love and affection to his dear wife Pat Nixon. He took to a piano seat and played away love melody to commemorate his wife’s birthday. Apart from playing Happy Birthday, he brought the house down by playing the engaging tune My wild Irish Rose since Pat had Irish roots. This performance was at the dedication ceremony at the Opryland USA theme park. This was to mark the relocation of the Grand Ole Opry from the Ryman Auditorium to the theme park. This performance was an opportunity for the people to see the soft passionate side of the president as he performed flawlessly on stage.
Perhaps the crowning moment at Nixon’s performance was when he played the national anthem God Bless America to the delight of the countrymen and women. This patriotism was captured at this moment as well as his appreciation for country music. Nixon loved the piano since childhood and he celebrated this love through his performances as president. His call to strong character and for people to embrace the spirit to stand up for the country would be engrained in the minds of the people; who would not forget his performance since it was tied to his message.
Another president who adored and played the piano is Harry S. Truman. In fact, he wanted to be a professional piano player since childhood. In his remarks, he was quoted to have said that it was either piano or politics. His light wit reflected in the great prowess in which he handled his piano. At a county fair, Truman played majestically for a group of Methodist women at his home state of Missouri. He entertained his high profile guests with savory sounds from the piano and this would reflect his love for music; specifically for the piano.
When these musical presidents played publicly, they played from the heart without fear of criticism and in so doing; they were endeared by fellow countrymen. Such is the magic of the piano; the power to unite people. As we mark President’s Day, these presidents will remind us of the strengths that unite the nation. Many other presidents have played albeit in the comforts behind closed doors away from public scrutiny. All in all, presidents have been able to tap into the full merits of playing the piano both personally and nationally.
For lots of photos of pianos in the White House click on the link below:
http://www.whitehousemuseum.org/furnishings/piano.htm
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