I’ll sing you a song if you’ll sing it with me. But for many of you, the words that you sing along will be just as empty as Henry’s bucket. The songs of the chanteymen and the instrumental music of the fife and drums, revisited at least once a week during the season, possess more than just notes and lyrics. This is the reason why we are all here. Ultimately it is the music that brings us together. But, it is the memories of past jollification and anticipation of future celebrations that give the music a life of it’s own.

Perhaps, we as performers become selfish, playing primarily for ourselves and secondarily for any lucky enough to witness our performance. But the energy and passion that is so apparent when watching the Mariners is the result.

Not yet of age to be truly accepted as a Mariner, I was still allowed to perform on the snareline in Basel, Switzerland. It was there that I began to realize just how much the Mariners transcend the music. We have even gone so far as surpassing an ocean. If you are a regular to this blog you have surely read the phrase “We are the Mariners.” And we are, all of us fortunate enough to share a moment in Mariner history. This includes all that we do, musically, socially, and otherwise.

Once in Switzerland, I could no sooner finish my first Feldschlosschen, than I had made a few dozen life-long friends, relationships that will build long after I am capable of gripping my drum sticks. I am truly thankful for all that has been shared in giving meaning to the music and creating memories to be triggered every time I sing a song. Perhaps someday that song will have just as much significance for you, as well. And for now, for those who are listening, farewell to you.

A video of the Mariners singing Mingulay Boat Song, that appears in a later post, was taken at dinner one night of the trip. Mingulay Boat Song is not simply a song any more.