Happy New Year !!

2010 was a particularly hard year for me because of the unexpected death of my daughter Naomi in August, so while I look forward to 2011 with some optimism I also wanted to remember those we lost this year.


Here's a link that showcases some of the jazz musicians who passed away in 2010.


Auld Lang Syne


Of course, nothing says it better than that seasonal classic Auld Lang Syne - a Scots poem written by Robert Burns in 1788 and set to the tune of a traditional folk song. 


It is well known in many English-speaking (and other) countries and is often sung to celebrate the start of the New Year at the stroke of midnight. By extension, its use has also become common at funerals, graduations, and as a farewell or ending to other occasions.

The song's Scots title may be translated into English literally as "old long since", or more idiomatically, "long long ago", "days gone by" or "old times". Consequently "For auld lang syne", as it appears in the first line of the chorus, is loosely translated as "for old times sake".   We've all sung the song .. or heard many versions of it -- although for me still the most powerful is to hear it with bagpipes playing in the background.

To read the original & various versions of the lyrics, as well to learn more about the song (including how the song has been changed in various cultures around the world) visit wikipedia.

Here's a version with lyrics