A life without music, is a life without air 

Gavin Lambe-Murphy

On Monday afternoon, following lunch at home, I sat in the shade of the trees in my garden, staring out to sea. The announcement of the death of Ennio Morricone came as something of a jolt.

Having always adored his music, and film scores, I listened closely as Radio Clásica played tribute to the Italian maestro.  

I watched, as people moved slow-paced along the beach, in high temperatures, while yachts glided, to and from Puerto Banùs. Life was calm, and somehow, I felt tears fill my eyes, and roll down my face. The music, moved me in such a way, that I was unable to control my emotion.  

Of course, there are certain types who will say, to cry is a sign of weakness. I beg to differ. Sometimes the power of music can move us so deeply, and transport us to moments in our lives, that perhaps we had subconsciously forgotten. As if adding to the overall feeling of nostalgia, the radio was slightly out of signal, making it feel even more surreal. I remained in the same spot for the duration of the broadcast, only moving to refill my wine glass.  

Without doubt, one of the most important figures in music history, his passing made me reflect on the number of wonderful movies, for which he has created the soundtracks. Cinema Paradiso being my favourite. The music reminded me of old friends and happy days, which, even though sometimes I may not recall, I carry with me always. Without realising, I sent messages to each of those who crossed my mind. Strangely, but I suppose not surprisingly, they agreed that each time they hear certain pieces, they are reminded of me. I sipped my wine and smiled.  

My darling mother has always insisted that we have a family rule – Monday is a day of rest. Our family, usually take a long lunch, and allow the week to warm up, before diving in. It’s a rule that I’m more than happy to abide by. In fact, by taking Monday slowly, the week seems to flow better.  

In extreme contrast to the tranquillity of Monday, on Sunday evening I went for a run at sunset. Heading from Los Monteros to Cabopino I was shocked, if not angered, to see large groups of people packed into the various chiringuitos. Certain places rammed with dancing people, as DJs pumped out house classics. Don’t get me wrong, as much as I love Morricone, I also adore house music, disco, jazz and opera. However, after a lockdown that felt as if it would never end, to witness such disregard for social distancing rules, my blood boiled.

Hundreds of people without a care in the world, and worryingly, bar owners happy to take their cash. Yes, we need the economy to reboot. That much is obvious, but can these people really be so stupid to believe this will end well. A couple of weeks of partying and spending could easily end with many more months of lockdown, as a second wave develops. You know what they say – stupid is, as stupid does. Hopefully, the stupid people will wake up soon, or be forced to do so.  

I dedicate this column to my dear friend, Princess Hermine de Clermont-Tonnerre, who passed away this week, following a motorcycle accident earlier this year. You will forever stay in my heart. 

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Gavin Lambe-Murphy

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