CLASSICAL MUSIC MONTH

August 31, 2026August 2, 2026Jensperspectiveblog 2 Comments

September is classical music month. Classical music differs greatly from today’s standards. However, classical music sets stage for the music we have today.

Classical music has many periods and styles throughout its history. Classical music is actually broken into different smaller periods, each having their own differences. It is interesting to see just how much music has changed over time!

Classical Music Time Periods

(PLEASE NOTE: The dates of the time periods are only estimates since there are no exact dates for when each time period occurred/ began/ended)

Medieval (500ish – 1400) The music of this time was connected to the church. Forms of music from the early part of this period would be Gregorian Chants and Organum.

Some Composers From this Period: Hildegard von Bingen, Guillaume de Machaut

Renaissance (1400/1450 – 1600) The Renaissance era brought many new ideas and gave a little bit more freedom from the church, which allowed for more experimentation with music. The printing press, invented in the 1400’s, also allowed for music to be printed. Instrumental music was developed as well.

Some Composers From this Period: William Byrd, Claudio Monteverdi, Josquin Des Prez

Baroque (1600 – 1750) The music of the Baroque was very ornate. This period also had the creation of the concerto, canata, oratorio, and the sonata. There were advancements with instruments as well.

Some Composers From This Period: Johann Sebastian Bach, Georg Frideric Handel, Antonio Vivaldi

Classical (1750/1775 – 1820) Classical era music was more simple/cleaner than Baroque music, and focused more on the melody. Dynamics (the change in volume) were important. The woodwind section of the orchestra was added during this period.

Some Composers From This Period: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Ludwig Van Beethoven*, Franz Joseph Hayden

*Beethoven is considered to be a bridge between the Classical and the Romantic periods

Romantic (1820 – 1910) Romantic pieces are know for being very expressive and emotional. The orchestra saw much growth in this period with the expansion of the woodwind and brass section.

Some Composers From This Period: Frédéric Chopin, Franz Liszt, Richard Wagner, Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Johannes Brahms

CELEBRATE

Find some classical music to listen to alone or with friends and family. If there is a concert you can go to, go with a few friends or family. If you want to learn how to play an instrument, then go out and find a place to do so. You can learn from various resources such as books, websites, or find a private tutor in your area. If you’re in school, then consider taking band or joining a music club. There are plenty of ways to celebrate! Use #ClassicalMusicMonth to post on social media.

Hildegard von Bingen: 11,000 Virgins - Chants for the Feast of St. Ursula#ClassicalMusicMonth — Hildegard von Bingen: 11,000 Virgins – Chants for the Feast of St. Ursula

Gregorian Chant for Meditation Chant Music for the Soul#ClassicalMusicMonth — Hildegard von Bingen: 11,000 Virgins – Chants for the Feast of St. Ursula

NATIONAL PIANO MONTH

August 31, 2026August 2, 2026Jensperspectiveblog 2 Comments

All during September, we take time to honor everything piano. It’s National Piano Month! The entire month pays tribute to pianists everywhere, piano makers, and those who enjoy piano music.

Bartolomeo Cristofori is given credit for inventing the first piano in Padua, Italy, around 1700. At the time, Cristofori’s employment with the Florentine Court of the Grand Prince Ferdinando de Medici put him in charge of a large collection of the Prince’s musical instruments, including his harpsichords. During this time, Cristofori’s interest in stringed instruments led him to the early development of the piano. Cristofori’s early piano designs were a testament to technological innovations in keyboard instruments of the times. At the height of the Industrial Revolution, composers and pianists like Mozart found a passion and eagerness for a more powerful and sustainable piano sound. As expected, the piano underwent tremendous changes during the 1790s to the 1860s, leading to the modern form of the piano.

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Piano Types

Piano experts and enthusiasts identify four basic types of pianos–the Spinet, Console, Studio, and Grande. The Spinet piano is the smallest of all piano types, while the Grande is the largest. Though all pianos are upright pianos, piano experts agree each piano style has its own distinct and identifiable sound.

The Spinet piano is the smallest of all pianos. Spinet pianos have a large number of working parts and are characterized as being dropped action pianos. Dropped action refers to the hammer-like striking action to strike the keys. Similar to its relative, the Console piano is closest to the Spinet piano in size. Furthermore, pianists use the same to play the Spinet piano as they do for the Console piano.

Studio pianos are taller than both the Spinet and Console pianos, respectively. The Studio piano also offers a richer tone than the two. However, the Studio piano has a different feel in comparison to a Spinet or Console piano. Finally, Grande pianos are the tallest and largest of all pianos. Like Studio pianos, Grande pianos are full of rich sounds carried carefully within the keys to emit a beautiful sound. In addition, Grande pianos are known to be the most beautiful and durable of all four pianos. Notably, when properly cared for, Grande pianos will last generations, making them a timeless heirloom.

Other types of pianos found today are more specialized and fall into their own category. Furthermore, pianists commonly use these types of pianos in contemporary music. Electric pianos are electro-mechanical designs, and the synthesized piano-like tones use oscillators and digital samples of acoustic piano sounds.

My husband is a professional musician. While we cannot fit a piano in our living room, his Yamaha is not the kind of keyboard you find in a big box or even lots of music stores. He still performs in local venues. While it looks like a piano and indeed sounds like it, he tickles, jazz, soul, big band, and easy listening out of it with years of knowledge and practice. Make sure you check out the samples on his website.

NATIONAL PIANO MONTH HISTORY

We give credit to Bartolomeo Cristofori as the inventor of the first piano in Padua, Italy, around 1700. If it wasn’t for his interest in stringed instruments, Cristofori might not have developed the piano we know today. Because of him, the piano has undergone tremendous changes leading to the modern form of the piano.

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HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalPianoMonth

National Piano Month offers ample opportunity to play, listen and learn about the piano. Attend a concert. Listen to a variety of genres with piano as the primary instrument. Develop your piano-playing skills or teach someone else to play. Sign up for lessons. Share your favorite piano music with others.

Use #NationalPianoMonth to share the month on social media.

Jumbo Easy Piano Songbook: 200 Songs for All Occasions

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Featured

Savoring September

August 31, 2026August 31, 2026Jensperspectiveblog Leave a comment

As summer gently fades into autumn, September invites us to savor the beauty and warmth of this transitional month. With its crisp air, vibrant foliage, and comforting traditions, September is a time to reflect, recharge, and reconnect with ourselves and our loved ones.

Weather and Changing Seasons

September is a month of contrasts. In many places, warm days linger, allowing us to bask in the sun’s glow before the chill of winter sets in. As the leaves begin to change, we witness nature’s stunning transformation:

Early September: Expect warm, sunny days with temperatures often in the 70s and 80s (Fahrenheit). It’s perfect for outdoor activities and enjoying the last of summer’s bounty.
Late September: The air cools significantly, often dipping into the 50s and 60s. Sweaters and cozy blankets make their return as we prepare for the autumn chill.

This month serves as a gentle reminder to embrace change, both in nature and within ourselves.

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Celebrating All Month Long

Alopecia Areata Awareness Month
Baby Safety Month
Better Breakfast Month
Classical Music Month
Fall Hat Month
Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month
Hispanic Heritage Month – September 15 to October 15
Intergeneration Month
International Update Your Resume Month
Little League Month
National Americana Month
National Blood Cancer Awareness Month
National Disease Literacy Month
National Square Dance Month
National Blueberry Popsicle Month
National Chicken Month
National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month
National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month
National Courtesy Month
National Honey Month
National Italian Cheese Month
National Library Card Sign Up Month
National Neonatal Intensive Care Awareness Month
National Mortgage Professional Month
National Mushroom Month
National Pain Awareness Month
National Piano Month
National Potato Month
National Preparedness Month
National Recovery Month
National Rice Month
National Self Improvement Month
National Self-Care Awareness Month
National Sewing Month
National Sickle Cell Awareness Month
Sourdough September
National Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Month
National Suicide Awareness Month
Pulmonary Fibrosis Awareness Month
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Awareness Month
Prostate Health Month
Save Your Photos Month
Savoring Sapphires, September Birthstone
Self Improvement Month
Whole Grains Month

Birthday Symbols and Famous Birthdays

September is rich with symbolism, particularly in its birthstones and zodiac signs:

Birthstone: The sapphire, symbolizing wisdom, loyalty, and nobility. Its deep blue hue is reminiscent of the clear autumn sky.
Zodiac Signs: Virgo (August 23 – September 22) and Libra (September 23 – October 22). Virgos are known for their practicality and attention to detail, while Libras epitomize harmony and balance.

Famous birthdays this month include:

Freddie Mercury (September 5)
Beyoncé (September 4)
Agatha Christie (September 15)
Stephen King (September 21)

Each of these figures has left an indelible mark on their respective fields, reminding us of the creativity and inspiration that can blossom in this month.

Cozy Activities to Embrace September

As the air turns crisp and the days grow shorter, it’s the perfect time to indulge in some cozy activities. Here are a few ideas to make the most of September:

Nature Walks: Take a leisurely stroll through a local park or nature reserve to witness the changing leaves. Bring along a thermos of hot cider for an extra touch of warmth.
Baking Days: September is ideal for baking seasonal treats. Try your hand at apple pies or pumpkin bread, filling your home with comforting aromas.
Book Nook: Create a cozy reading corner with soft blankets and pillows. Dive into a good book, perhaps one by a beloved September birthday author.
Crafting: Start a DIY autumn project, whether it’s creating decorative wreaths from fallen leaves or knitting scarves to prepare for the colder months.
Movie Nights: Host a movie marathon featuring fall-themed films. Snuggle up with popcorn, hot chocolate, and your favorite cozy blankets.
Harvest Festivals: If possible, attend local harvest festivals or farmer’s markets. Enjoy the seasonal produce and connect with your community.
Mindfulness Moments: Take time for reflection and mindfulness. Consider journaling about your hopes and goals for the coming months or simply enjoy a moment of stillness outdoors.

Embracing the Spirit of September

September is a month that encourages us to slow down, appreciate the beauty around us, and indulge in the simple joys of life. Whether it’s through the warmth of family gatherings, the thrill of birthdays, or the serenity of nature, let this month be a reminder to savor every moment. As we transition into autumn, may we carry the light of summer in our hearts and embrace the cozy changes ahead.

What cozy activity are you looking forward to this September?

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NATIONAL SENIOR CITIZENS DAY

August 20, 2026August 19, 2026Jensperspectiveblog 4 Comments

On August 21st, National Senior Citizens Day recognizes the achievements of the more mature representatives of our nation. The day provides an opportunity to show our appreciation for their dedication, accomplishments, and services they give throughout their lives.

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According to the 2017 census, 47 million seniors live in the United States. By 2060, that number will nearly double. Their wealth of knowledge, skill, and experience offer so much to the next generation. As technologies advance, these are the people who’ve experienced each step of change. Not only have they contributed to it, but they understand first hand the benefits and the drawbacks. They know life without the advancements that exist today.

By the time you’re eighty years old you’ve learned everything. You only have to remember it. ~ George Burns

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Our senior citizens are pioneers of science, medicine, psychology, civil rights and so much more. Their valuable contributions to our communities create better places to live. They deserve the respect and dignity their achievements earn them. The day encourages supporting senior citizens to live their lives to the fullest and as independently as possible.

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HOW TO OBSERVE #SeniorCitizensDay

Spend time with the senior citizens you know. Let them know they are appreciated and loved. It may also be a good day to volunteer at a retirement home. Share your smile with those who may not otherwise get a visitor today.

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As Covid19 is still a great concern for these age groups, take it virtual. Video chats, telephone calls, even a special care package direct from Amazon will seriously brighten someones day. With lockdowns being reimposed, communication becomes more important.

Lockdowns mean in some cases they are confined to thier rooms. They cannot speak to or see each other. They can no longer have activities and social meals. No physical therapies room, and no exercise in the halls. While these measures are ment to protect them, they still fall short as we have seen by the numbers reported from facilities. Some do a very good job and some are still struggling.

The biggest danger is the isolation many feel. With no visitors allowed they have been cut off from family, community outreach and as I said even each other. I’ve worked with seniors for many years, that social interaction helps prevent both mental and physical decline. Some more than others profoundly feel the effects. No one wants to be forgotten.

Send a card, chat, patiently endure teaching about technology if possible. Remember when you get frustrated, they may have taught you how to use a spoon.. among other things.

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If you are a senior citizen, check for special discounts and promotions that may be offered at stores and restaurants in your area.

Use #SeniorCitizensDay to post on social media.

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INTERNATIONAL BLUES MUSIC DAY

August 4, 2026August 2, 2026Jensperspectiveblog 2 Comments

Today is August 5 we are celebrating the soulful sounds on International Blues Music Day. On this International Day, we are encouraging everyone around the globe to enjoy the historical sound of the American South.

Blues Music is a combination of form and music that creates a heavy sound filled with emotion. Often associated with sadness, blues music releases emotional feelings meant to free the soul. On International Blues Music Day, let’s learn the vast history behind this musical genre while listening to your favorite blues musician.

DID YOU KNOW?

“Walking the blues” is a blues bass guitar playing during a song. The bass guitar has the important role of creating the “feeling” of the song being played.

Historically, blues music seems to have developed shortly after the Civil War. Originating the in the deep South, this music genre was an artistic way for African Americans to sing work songs while working in the fields during slavery. It’s important to note many of these songs were a depiction of sadness and melancholy, which were current feelings of slaves during this era. However, because of the resilience of slaves, they also incorporated spiritual songs with feelings as a way of dealing with every day life. The early sounds of blues serve as the oral history of slaves. In fact, many of the early blues songs are the only documentation available telling us of work conditions, treatment, and life as a slave.

Between the late 1800s and early 1920s, blues began taking a new shape in mainstream America. Spreading across the entire South, blues music was heard in dance halls and speakeasys. It was during this time instruments, such as the banjo and trumpet, began amplifying the sound of blues. It was also a time when black musicians were recording their music, opening doors for music to enter into households across the world.

6 Famous Blues Musicians

Bessie Smith (1894–1937)
Mamie Smith (1891–1946)
Etta James (1938–2012)
Howlin’ Wolf (1910–1976)
Muddy Waters (1913–1983)
B.B. King (1925-2015)

Blues musician Johnny Childs receives credit as the founder of International Blues Music Day. On August 2, 2013, Childs began an initiative to create an annual celebration in honor of blues music and its musicians around the world. The International Blues Music Day organization, along with the NYC Blues Society, began planning the first ever International Blues Music Day celebration.

HISTORY BEHIND INTERNATIONAL BLUES MUSIC DAY

Blues music is one of the most widely known music genres in the world. Celebrations bring together musicians, communities, educators, historians, and fans, alike. According to the International Blues Music Day website, this international day is to ‘celebrate and learn about blues and its roots, future and impact; raise awareness of the need for intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding; and reinforce international cooperation and communication.’

What is the International Blues Music Day organization?

The International Blues Music Day organization promotes the art of blues music and educates people on the vast heritage blues music has. The organization’s core goals are to:

Promote peace and equality
Create dialogue among cultures
Encourage diversity
Eliminate discrimination
Encourage social change

How to OBSERVE #InternationalBluesMusicDay

Gather your friends and family on International Blues Music Day and celebrate the sound of music loved by millions of people around the globe. We want to see your photos on social media as you enjoy celebrations in your area. Tag #InternationalBluesMusicDay so you can join in on this musical celebration.

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