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Mudcat as a force for good
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Subject: Mudcat as a force for good From: George Papavgeris Date: 28 Aug 06 - 01:03 PM Back in April 2005, on the thread Songs about getting really old - 2 I posted the lyrics of a song I wrote as a direct result of reading the previous posts on that same thread. It was "Baba", about watching my father getting old and frail. The song eventually made it into the latest album, and 2 years later I sang it several times at the Australian National Festival in Canberra. The rest of the story is in this email I received yesterday from Sue Driscoll in Canberra: "Dear George, I first came cross you and your music at the National Folk Festival this year and I was in the concert where you sang Baba. I am a teacher at the Canberra Institute of Technology and I teach students who are working in the age care area. One of the subjects I teach looks at the issues and grief for the elderly people and also at the grief experienced by their families as they watch the person they love change - all the things that you express with such feeling in your song Baba. I give the students a copy of the lyrics of Baba and play them the CD - and it is a very moving and powerful experience for them in terms of really connecting with the feelings rather than just studying it as a theoretical concept. Past students have come back and said to me that it was one of the lessons that stays with them, and talk of how having heard your song was a changing moment for them in their understanding and connecting with the families of elderly people, and changed the way they see things and relate to both the elderly person they are caring for and the persons family. So thank you for having written it and for having shared it - and I hope that it is encouraging for you to know that what you have experienced and sung about in terms of your father is having a far reaching potential influence in a very positive way on the care and support that elderly people and their families are receiving here in Canberra." This not only justifies my motivation for songwriting, but it also proves that Mudcat can be a force for good, as it directly inspired the song in the first place. I know this is bragging, and I am a little redfaced; but I just had to tell the world; at least that part of the world that has supported me so much since I started this hobby of mine... |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat as a force for good From: George Papavgeris Date: 28 Aug 06 - 01:06 PM This is a more direct link than the one above |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat as a force for good From: MMario Date: 28 Aug 06 - 01:15 PM This news doesn't surprise me at all. |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat as a force for good From: JennyO Date: 28 Aug 06 - 01:22 PM That's wonderful to hear, George! Having heard you sing that song several times, I understand exactly what she is saying - it is a very moving song. Isn't it nice to get feedback like that! Don't be redfaced - you have a lot to be proud of, and I'm glad you shared it with us. Yes I believe Mudcat can be a force for good. It has enriched my life in lots of ways, including giving me the opportunity to meet you. As they say in Oz - Onya, mate! |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat as a force for good From: Mudlark Date: 28 Aug 06 - 01:59 PM Congratulations, George...and cheers to the fine teacher who not only realized the worth of your song, both musically and as a way to connect students with their subject, but who was also sensitive and caring enough to share her thots and appreciation with you. May the force stay with you! |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat as a force for good From: Maryrrf Date: 28 Aug 06 - 02:17 PM Yes, Mudcat is a force for good, but this is really about you, George, and your songs. When I first heard your songs at the Getaway, and then listened to your CD, I found myself thinking that you truly are a spokesperson for our generation. You have a great and rare talent, and have touched many people with your lyrics. (I hope you're going to be at the Getaway this year!) |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat as a force for good From: Sorcha Date: 28 Aug 06 - 02:23 PM GREAT George!!!! I'm proud of ya! |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat as a force for good From: Herga Kitty Date: 28 Aug 06 - 03:48 PM George - I remember you singing "Baba" to me when I came round to your studio in April 2004 to record harmonies for Les Sullivan's "Echoes of Mingulay", and it was still "work in progress". I'd gone through putting my mother into hospital and then a care home the spring and summer before, and she was going downhill with dementia (and died three months later). You very kindly gave me a lift to the Black Lion in Plaistow for a great session which enabled me to meet Sorcha, Kendall and Jacqui C. And I'm also grateful to Tyke, who introduced me to Mudcat through a Mudgather with the Ducks in Whitby in August 2001, and so to lots more friends since! Kitty |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat as a force for good From: Amos Date: 28 Aug 06 - 03:49 PM George: Stand ready to perform it at the Getaway, won't you? A |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat as a force for good From: katlaughing Date: 28 Aug 06 - 04:22 PM That is wonderful, George, congrulations and thanks for sharing with us. No need to be red-faced about such giving and receiving...it's the best part of what makes the world go round. Reminds me of the music therapy threads and other songs which have come about due to the inspiration of Mudcat and life experience. Mudcatters are by and large a force for good wherever they are! All the best, kat |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat as a force for good From: Big Mick Date: 28 Aug 06 - 04:29 PM George, this surprises who? I listen to your lyrics, and wish that I could capture my observations of the world we live in, and the human condition, like you. You have plenty more to share, my friend. Let that huge heart, that wonderful voice, and that sensitive mind, continue to share how it sees what it around us. You can make a difference. Damn proud of you, and to know you. All the best, Mick |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat as a force for good From: George Seto - af221@chebucto.ns.ca Date: 28 Aug 06 - 05:05 PM That's a wonderful story, George. Stop being red-faced, and accept all the accolades! |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat as a force for good From: gnu Date: 28 Aug 06 - 05:10 PM Good on ya. |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat as a force for good From: Naemanson Date: 28 Aug 06 - 05:22 PM George, some of us are too humble self promote. The Mudcat is not a forum where you can let someone else sing your praises because most of us don't know what has you walking proud on a particular day. So you have to swallow your humility and tell us about it. Sure, you have a red face but otherwise we wouldn't get to feel good for you and share your pride and joy. I'm working as a teacher of English As A Second Language. One of the sources I use is a Native American story I downloaded off the Internet. I keep thinking I should write to the author and tell her what I'm using her story for. Now that I've seen this, Maybe, I'll do it. |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat as a force for good From: Charley Noble Date: 28 Aug 06 - 05:27 PM George- You are known and loved for your good works! There is no greater reward. Charley Noble |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat as a force for good From: GUEST Date: 28 Aug 06 - 05:41 PM George As your music reaches a wider audience, you will have to learn to take this kind of feedback in your stride - but it is the mark of you, the man, that you react in this way and why we appreciate your work. |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat as a force for good From: Kaleea Date: 28 Aug 06 - 06:14 PM Anbody besides myself notice that George is NOT calling them thar *#%&*! revenoors and making a big fuss about royalties? He is being generous with his lyrics! Bravo for your song, & Bravo for your generosity. |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat as a force for good From: Peace Date: 28 Aug 06 - 06:29 PM Wonderful story George, and nice to know that people recognize quality art and writing. Good one. |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat as a force for good From: GUEST,pudlover Date: 28 Aug 06 - 06:43 PM Sorry George, that was me who came in as guest (in error). Hope the usual suspects do not feel compelled to ruin this thread because I dared to post. |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat as a force for good From: kendall Date: 28 Aug 06 - 07:06 PM What blows me away is your talent for being so articulate in a second language! |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat as a force for good From: bobad Date: 28 Aug 06 - 07:25 PM Congratulations George, it must be a source of pride to know you are inspiring people who are working and studying in the very difficult field of geriatric care. Good on ya. |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat as a force for good From: The Fooles Troupe Date: 28 Aug 06 - 08:50 PM You have been warned! NOW look what you've done! I hope you're SATISFIED! ;-) |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat as a force for good From: GUEST,Art Thieme Date: 28 Aug 06 - 09:30 PM Bravo ! Karma, all over again!! Art |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat as a force for good From: Bert Date: 29 Aug 06 - 12:17 AM GREAT! |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat as a force for good From: Janie Date: 29 Aug 06 - 12:23 AM George, Thank you so very much for your capacity to share so deeply. You are a teacher to us all. xo A Byzantine Babe:-) |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat as a force for good From: jacqui.c Date: 29 Aug 06 - 11:06 AM I was at a singaround in Chapeltown yesterday and someone sang one of your songs. Didn't surprise me at all. You write sings that touch the lives of all of us in some way. Every new album is a treat. Looking forward to seeing you at the Getaway again. |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat as a force for good From: George Papavgeris Date: 29 Aug 06 - 12:05 PM Stop it you lot, or I'll start believing my own publicity (if I ever do, Foolstroupe is under strict instructions to kick me where it hurts). Pudlover, I hope I never take these things in my stride - it would be a shame to be hardened to the nice things in life. Sorry - no Getaway this year for us. Partly because of the hunt for a dayjob, but mostly because of Baba's deteriorating condition; I have to be within easy reach of Greece at the drop of a hat (I was called there last week, but he's perked up again). Thank you all. I think you know how much I mean it. |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat as a force for good From: The Fooles Troupe Date: 29 Aug 06 - 07:30 PM "Foolstroupe is under strict instructions to kick me where it hurts" Ok, I'll starrt with the wallet... |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat as a force for good From: The Fooles Troupe Date: 29 Aug 06 - 07:51 PM ... or should I use my bladder on you? ... the one on a stick I mean... |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat as a force for good From: Beer Date: 29 Aug 06 - 08:07 PM Brought a lump to my throat. Great song and great responses. Beer |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat as a force for good From: Wolfgang Date: 30 Aug 06 - 08:57 AM My God, what a beautiful song! Wolfgang |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat as a force for good From: GUEST,Nessie Date: 03 Sep 06 - 04:51 AM Just to let those who've kindly asked after George's father know that he passed away during the night, very quietly and peacefully in hospital in Thessaloniki at the age of 88. George had been there since Friday. Vanessa |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat as a force for good From: KT Date: 03 Sep 06 - 06:48 AM Oh, Vanessa, and George, I'm so sorry for your loss....Know that you both, and your family, are being thought of with love and prayer as you walk through this time. As together, you embrace all that is asked of you right now, remember all that Baba has been, and still is, to you, for you, in you. And please, do share the song that will no doubt be whispered to you soon....... With much love to you ~ KT |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat as a force for good From: Jeri Date: 03 Sep 06 - 09:19 AM George, Vanessa and children, I'm sorry for your loss. The song is sad, but it's going to resonate with a lot of people simply because most of us have been through something similar. George, your Baba got a good look at the family that flourished because of him and would go on after him. I'll bet he was proud of you. Love, Jeri |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat as a force for good From: JennyO Date: 03 Sep 06 - 09:30 AM Oh I'm so sorry to hear that. I'm glad George was able to be there. You know I'm thinking of you, lovely people. It's a sad time, but your Baba lives on in your hearts, and in your music, George. Lots of love and warm thoughts coming to you from warm and sunny Oz! Jenny |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat as a force for good From: wysiwyg Date: 03 Sep 06 - 09:32 AM Condolences George, and keep singing that song for him as soon as you can. ~Susan |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat as a force for good From: Flash Company Date: 03 Sep 06 - 09:45 AM George And Family, as someone who only knows you through Mudcat, I think it is maybe a tad presumptious of me to come in at this point in your lives. However, having been through a similar loss in the last couple of years, S & I know just what you are feeling now. Our thoughts and love are with you. Brian(Flash Company) and Sheila Quinn |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat as a force for good From: jacqui.c Date: 03 Sep 06 - 12:08 PM Condolences to both of you. It doesn't matter how a long a life a loved one lives, the loss is still hard to take. His influence will remain in all those who knew him and his legacy, in the shape of his son, is a blessing to all who hear George's music. |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat as a force for good From: Maryrrf Date: 03 Sep 06 - 12:18 PM I'm so sorry to hear this. My condolences to both of you. But I'm glad that George was able to be with his father at the end. |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat as a force for good From: GUEST,pudlover Date: 03 Sep 06 - 05:50 PM George, Vanessa and family At a time like this, I wish I had George's skills with words. I am thinking of you all. Be strong and remember the pain will get less, but always talk of him and honour him with your words and deeds XXXXX |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat as a force for good From: Barry Finn Date: 03 Sep 06 - 06:48 PM I'm very sorry to hear of your's & your family's loss George. I do wish you & yours well. On a lighter note maybe you'll reconsider your plans about the Getaway, it could be therapeutic. If you can possibly carry enough CD's they may pay for the trip over. And always remember when the day job interferes with the music give up the day job. Best wishes to you in & out of your times of sorrow Barry |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat as a force for good From: Tinker Date: 03 Sep 06 - 07:46 PM George your ability to see the world and send it back out in melody and words is something I've marveled at while listening to your CD's. A sense of family and unity weaves throughout and somehow sharing a bit of your sorrow seems as if it's only one more movement in the dance you've invited us graciously to share. Blessings and Light to you and yours Tinker |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat as a force for good From: JennyO Date: 03 Sep 06 - 11:17 PM Very well said, Tinker. That made me think of the chorus of one of George's songs, Friends Like These: Who needs fame and who needs fortune And who needs a life of ease I'm the richest in the country When I'm blessed with friends like these You know your Mudcat friends are here for you, George. Jenny |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat as a force for good From: alanabit Date: 03 Sep 06 - 11:52 PM "Memory" is one of the most graphic yet respectful songs I have heard on this subject. For those of us who lost our parents earlier, it is a reminder that we were spared the sight of this decline. Your memory is in good working order George, so I am sure you will recall the good ones of your father. One of the reasons Mudcat is a force for good is that you and Vanessa are around here. |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat as a force for good From: Nessie Date: 04 Sep 06 - 06:10 AM Thankyou so much to each and all of you for those thoughtful messages which George will see when he gets back in a couple of days. Sadly I didn't have the chance to get to the funeral, which was held the same day as is the custom in warmer climes, but the family there are at the stage of feeling relief that his passing was so gentle and that he's no longer suffering. Many of his former pupils attended which was sweet.. Thanks again Vanessa |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat as a force for good From: Big Mick Date: 05 Sep 06 - 08:48 AM Thanks, Tink, for letting me know about this last night. I resisted the urge to jump right on and post something, and gave some thought to George, what this means to him, and what it means to those of us who know him as friend, and respect him so greatly as artist. First I want to say to you George, you are Baba's legacy, my friend. And I don't know how one could have a better legacy. Knowing you are there to pass on the wisdom, love, and generations of stories of his family, makes his passing easy. I never met your Da, but I know him through the words his son sings, and the love of everyday heroes his son shows in his music. To have raised such a remarkable bard means he was an extraordinary person himself. His influence, and your Mother's (whom you so eloquently sing about as well) is so profound that it springs through you in a torrent that drenches all who hear it. No person with a heart such as yours came to it on their own. No soul possesses the kind of love and understanding that your lyrics demonstrate, simply as a result of being born. The person you are, the soul you possess, came as a result of your search, guided firmly by the ideals that your Mother and Baba taught you. This then was a truly remarkable man. The search for his voice is over. It is alive and well in you. And we are the happy beneficiaries. On the personal side, friend George, know that I pray for you and your family. The loss is great, and the grieving will be hard. The search for meaning will lead you down many musical paths, first dark, eventually light, and then springing forth like the sun you will find the Song of your Baba. In the meantime, we will wait, and even if only in a cyber way, we will hold your hand, provide a shoulder, and send our love and condolences to you, Vanessa, and the family. God be good to him, Mick |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat as a force for good From: Mrs_Annie Date: 05 Sep 06 - 09:05 AM George, I saw you perform a short set at Sidmouth, and that was enough to know I had to buy your CD. I was honoured to meet you in the Bedford, you have a special talent. I send you my condolences on the sad loss of your "Baba", an experience which I have not yet had to go through. It's wonderful that your songs have touched so many people. best wishes from Anne |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat as a force for good From: George Papavgeris Date: 07 Sep 06 - 01:57 PM I didn't cry all weekend, me being the strong one and all that, but your messages on this thread (and the PMs some of you sent) pulled the plug on me. You lovely buggers! Baba's passing, gentle and peaceful though it was, was nevertheless marked by some extraordinary events, such as the church allowing him to lie in state (unheard of for normal mortals) throughout the Sunday service, for people to pay their respects to him; Gerontas Eusebius (one of the foremost personages in the Orthodox Church, the nearest thing we have to a "guru") coming down from his mountain bolthole for the first time in years and into the city, to spend 2 hours with my father lying in state and confessing to him (!) asking him to mediate for the salvation of his soul. Hundreds of friends and relatives and dozens of his former pupils (he had been a teacher) came to give him "the last kiss". For someone who had always been a self-effacing and quiet man, such scenes were very unexpected, yet fitting. It was as if people were flocking to hear "the teacher's" last lesson; and all came away with something - perhaps each with a different lesson, but each with what they needed most. Also, remarkably few tears from all of us; this was not a sad event, but almost a celebratory one. And now I feel strangely invigorated, as if I've witnessed not my father's death and funeral, but an affirmation of life. Mama is holding on very well; my sister was humming to herself Monday evening (a sound I'd forgotten); my cousins agreed to hold an annual reunion, to keep the family ties close; and I've made a couple of personal promises to Baba that I fully intend to honour. Thank you so much for your messages! Sorry Barry, I'll be going back for the 40-day commemoration in October... And bless him, Baba left me with an idea for a song. It might take me some time to write (or not), but "The Teacher's Last Lesson" has already germinated. Love to all of you, and hope to see you soon |
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