My Musical Autobiography

My Father and Mother were both born and raised in Mobile, Alabama. Needless to say, growing up my Father would listen to a lot of Country music. His favorite was Garth Brooks. He was also a huge fan of Lynyrd Skynyrd and George Thorogoood. I remember taking road trips with my family and singing along to "I've got friends in low places," "Bad to the Bone," and "Sweet Home Alabama." That isn't exactly what you would imagine coming out of a seven year old.
The earliest memory I have of music of the world was a lesson that my elementary school teacher taught me in the 3rd grade. All that I can recall, is playing along to an African song with some simplistic type of percussion instrument. I believe that she passed around sand blocks and rhythm sticks. The part that I remember the most was the poster she had of Michael Jackson and children of different cultures from around the world. She had us all sing along to "Lean on Me." That was strange to me even in the 3rd grade.
In Middle school, I decided to take Spanish as my foreign language. I chose Spanish because my older sister took it as well, and I idealized her. We were exposed to Mariachi music frequently throughout my five years. We also would create our own Spanish markets in school to similate the culture by creating authentic recipes and toys to sell in pesos.
My fascination with Latin American culture helped my husband and me to pick our Honeymoon destination. We decided to go to Riviera Maya which is south of Cancun. It was awesome to be completely submersed in this environment. Music was presented in many of the same ways as they are in America. Restaurants, shops, airports, taxis, and streets would have music playing or being played. One night we went out for a nice dinner and had a Mariachi band come and play for us. The most informative moments about music of their culture were experienced when riding in a taxi or shuttle. We were able to hear what type of music was popular to the people of Mexico. It was very comical.
Still my favorite music is opera. My Grandfather would wake my Mother up every morning playing it and he would also play it for his grandkids. That is one of my favorite memories.