OCTAVIA’S OVERTURE
My favorite classical music playlist
If you’ve been following my music playlists, you’ll observe my diverse taste, embracing various genres. I have a special fondness for tunes from bygone eras or lesser-known underground artists.
I recall a moment when I accepted a ride from a friend of a friend after a birthday party. The driver, another Black woman, greeted me warmly. As I settled into the seat, the haunting melody of “Adagio for Strings” filled the car. She hastily attempted to switch it off, apologizing sheepishly. “Sorry, I sometimes enjoy listening to classical music while I drive.”
My heart swelled with delight, and I returned her smile. “Adagio for Strings is my all-time favorite musical composition. I often listen to it while driving.”
Time seemed to stall for a minute longer as a sense of connection and camaraderie enveloped us. It was a joyous revelation to meet someone who shared not only my cultural background but also a love for music that might not be commonplace in our community today. We exchanged grins, feeling a wave of relief wash over us both.
Two brown-skinned sisters savoring the sweet notes of the music’s bittersweet beauty as the car glided around curvy roads.