Dancing to a Different Tune

Summary

Circle Round Podcast Episode Summary: "Dancing to a Different Tune"

Podcast Information

• Title: Circle Round
• Host/Author: WBUR
• Episode: Dancing to a Different Tune
• Release Date: November 26, 2024
• Description: Circle Round adapts folktales from around the world into engaging radio plays for children and families, exploring themes like kindness, persistence, and generosity. Each episode concludes with an activity to inspire deeper conversations between children and adults.

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Introduction to "Dancing to a Different Tune"

In the November 26, 2024 episode titled "Dancing to a Different Tune," host Rebecca Shear narrates a heartfelt folktale inspired by Brazilian storytelling traditions. The story delves into themes of passion, loss, and the transformative power of music. Accompanied by the talented three-time Grammy Award-winning violinist Hilary Hahn, who both voices the main character and performs on the violin, the episode weaves a rich tapestry of sound and emotion to captivate listeners of all ages.

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Story Overview

Luciana's Life and Passion for Music

The tale begins with Luciana, a young girl living with her father, Lucio, on a modest farm. Their home is a peaceful countryside setting with crops, an orchard, and a flock of sheep. Among her various chores, Luciana delights most in herding the sheep, as evidenced by her cheerful commands:

• Luciana (03:21): "Come along Tulip and Petunia. You too Magnolia and Bluebell. There are some yummy dandelions just over this hill. Your fluff balls are going to love them."

Despite her content life, Luciana harbors a deep passion for music, especially the violin. Her dreams of owning and playing the violin remain unfulfilled due to financial constraints:

• Luciana (04:03): "Are you serious? You want me to buy a violin?"

Her father, Lucio, acknowledges her passion and imparts a heartfelt wish before his passing:

• Lucio (04:24): "Luciana, you are the apple of my eye, the light of my life. But I believe I'm drawing closer to the end of that life."
• Lucio (05:21): "Having a violin has always been your dream, has it not? And to be honest, buying one for you has always been my dream."

Luciana's Journey with the Violin

After Lucio's death, Luciana honors his final request by selling part of the farm to purchase a violin. Her initial attempts at playing are fraught with uncertainty, but her dedication transforms her into a skilled musician. Her music, though beautiful, carries a melancholic undertone reflecting her grief:

• Luciana (08:15): "I need to find some work and bring in some cash. In my wildest dreams, I would become a professional musician and earn money doing something I love. But let's face it, there aren't exactly a ton of opportunities for a violinist out here in the country."

Seeking solace, Luciana plays her violin outdoors, inadvertently enchanting her flock of sheep:

• Luciana (09:11): "Well, if you fluffballs really want to cut a rug, this melancholy music will never do. I think it's finally time to try something different."

Her shift to joyful melodies transforms the sheep into dancing companions, triggering a magical parade that extends beyond the farm:

• Luciana (13:01): "Oh, so we're going to have a little parade, are we? Or a big parade, more like. Either way, follow me."

Encounter with the Royal Palace

The musical procession catches the attention of the royal palace, where a weary king seeks a remedy for his sorrowful daughter, the princess. Impressed by Luciana's ability to evoke joy through music, the king invites her to perform, leading to a pivotal moment:

• King (14:06): "Welcome to the palace, my friends. You must be the most entertaining visitors we have ever received."
• King (15:01): "Haven't you heard? It's been years since the princess left. Ever since her mother died, my daughter has been melancholy, full of sorrow."

Luciana's performance brings genuine laughter and happiness to the princess, fulfilling the king's long-standing wish. In gratitude, the king offers Luciana patronage, enabling her to pursue her musical dreams:

• King (17:29): "You've done it. You've made my daughter laugh. Tell me, O talented one, what reward do you wish to have?"
• Luciana (17:47): "Honestly, your Majesty, the one thing my heart desires is music. I long to make music my livelihood, earning my daily bread by playing and performing and sharing my music with the world."

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Key Quotes and Moments

• Lucio's Blessing:
  "Having a violin has always been your dream, has it not? And to be honest, buying one for you has always been my dream." (05:21)
  Lucio's loving encouragement sets the stage for Luciana's transformative journey.

• Luciana's Determination:
  "I need to find some work and bring in some cash. In my wildest dreams, I would become a professional musician and earn money doing something I love." (08:15)
  This quote highlights Luciana's resolve to follow her passion despite challenges.

• Magic of Music:
  "Well, if you fluffballs really want to cut a rug, this melancholy music will never do. I think it's finally time to try something different." (09:11)
  Luciana's decision to change her music leads to a cascade of magical events.

• King's Desperate Plea:
  "Haven't you heard? It's been years since the princess left. Ever since her mother died, my daughter has been melancholy, full of sorrow." (15:01)
  The king's words reveal the depth of the princess's sadness and the kingdom's need for joy.

• Luciana's Wish:
  "Honestly, your Majesty, the one thing my heart desires is music. I long to make music my livelihood, earning my daily bread by playing and performing and sharing my music with the world." (17:47)
  Luciana's heartfelt request underscores the episode's theme of following one's passion.

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Insights and Themes

"Dancing to a Different Tune" explores several poignant themes:

• Passion and Perseverance: Luciana's unwavering dedication to her dream of playing the violin, despite financial hardships and personal loss, exemplifies the importance of pursuing one's passions.

• Healing Power of Music: The story vividly illustrates how music can heal emotional wounds and bring joy not only to the musician but also to those around them, including animals and royalty.

• Transformation through Creativity: Luciana's musical evolution from melancholic strains to lively melodies symbolizes personal growth and the ability to transform sorrow into happiness through creativity.

• Community and Connection: The magical parade of animals and the princess's restored joy highlight the significance of community and the connections forged through shared experiences.

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Activity: Share Your Passion

Following the story, Rebecca Shear invites listeners to engage in a creative activity:

"Find some paper and draw a picture of you and your passion. When you're finished, share it with someone you have fun with."

This activity encourages children to reflect on their interests and fosters meaningful conversations with adults, reinforcing the episode's themes of passion and expression.

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Behind the Scenes

• Adaptation and Production:
  The episode was adapted by Rebecca Shear with contributions from composer and sound designer Eric Shimalonis. Dean Russell served as the editor, while Sabina Hahn provided the episode's artwork, including a downloadable coloring page available on the Circle Round website.

• Featured Talent:
  Hilary Hahn not only voiced Luciana but also performed the violin pieces that brought the story to life, enhancing the immersive experience for listeners.

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Listener Engagement

The episode concludes with heartfelt messages from young listeners sharing their favorite "Circle Round" stories, demonstrating the podcast's impact and fostering a sense of community among its audience.

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Conclusion

"Dancing to a Different Tune" is a beautifully crafted episode of "Circle Round" that seamlessly blends storytelling, music, and life lessons. It underscores the resilience of the human spirit and the universal language of music in overcoming grief and inspiring joy. Whether you're a long-time listener or new to the podcast, this episode offers a moving narrative that resonates across ages, encouraging everyone to follow their passions and share their gifts with the world.

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Join the Circle Round Community

If you enjoyed this episode, consider joining the Circle Round Club for exclusive content, early access to live events, and more. Share your passions and creations with the community, and continue to be inspired by stories from around the globe.

Transcript

[Rebecca Shear]

Support for the Circle Round podcast comes from Indeed. Are you hiring with Indeed? Your search is over. Indeed doesn't just help you hire faster. 93% of employers agree that Indeed delivers the highest quality matches compared to other job sites and listeners. Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility@ Indeed.com CircleRound that's Indeed.com CircleRound terms and conditions apply. Need to hire? You need Indeed. Hi Rebecca Shear here with some really Fun News. On February 8th, Circle Round LIVE is coming to Symphony hall in Boston and you're invited Join us for a live recording of two new episodes featuring me, composer Eric Shyamalonis, plus Boston Symphony Orchestra players and a star studded cast. Get your Tickets [e-mail] CircleRound WBUR podcasts Boston have you ever heard the expression music calms the savage beast? What this saying means is music can be so powerful it can soothe anyone, no matter how upset, distress or worked up they may be. In today's tale, we'll meet a musician whose sounds don't just calm the savage beast, they make it dance. I'm Rebecca Shear and welcome to Circle Round, where storytime happens all the time. Today, our story is called Dancing to a Different Tune. It's inspired by tales from the South American country of Brazil, though you'll find versions of this story in many other places including Denmark, Egypt, England, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Norway, Russia and the Ozark Mountains of the United States. Some really great people came together to bring you our version of this folktale, including three time Grammy Award winning violinist Hilary Hobbs. Hillary has made a career of connecting with fans and musicians of all ages from her recordings of the first three Suzuki Violin books to her Bring your own baby concerts and 100 days of practice project on social media. Also, not only does Hilary play the main character in our story, she also did us the honor of playing the violin. So circle around everyone for dancing to a different tune. Luciana lived with her father Lucio out in the countryside where they ran a cozy little farm with a modest piece of land for growing crops, a tiny orchard for picking fruit, and a small flock of sheep for making milk and cheese. Of all Luciana's chores, her favorite was herding the sheep.

[Luciana]

Come along Tulip and Petunia. You too Magnolia and Bluebell. There are some yummy dandelions just over this hill. You fluff balls are going to love them.

[Rebecca Shear]

But her true passion wasn't growing crops or picking fruit or even hurting her beloved flower. Her true passion was music. Ever since she was little Luciana longed to play the violin. It thrilled her to think about gliding her elegant bow back and forth as her fingers danced across the strings. But every time she asked Lucio if she could have a violin of her own.

[Lucio]

I'm sorry, my dear, but even though we've been scrimping and saving, we could never afford a violin. Never.

[Rebecca Shear]

The years went by, and Lucio grew old and frail. One day, as he was resting his creaky bones in bed, he called his daughter to his side.

[Lucio]

Luciana, you are the apple of my eye, the light of my life. But I believe I'm drawing closer to the end of that life.

[Luciana]

Come now, Father. Your body has slowed down a bit, but your mind is as quick as ever.

[Lucio]

That is sweet of you to say, my dear, but you and I both know I won't be around forever. And when I go, there isn't much I can leave you in the way of worldly riches. Other than this farm, of course.

[Luciana]

And I adore this place. I grew up here. I don't need anything else.

[Lucio]

But you do need something else, Luciana. That is why, once I'm gone, I want you to sell whatever you need. The land, the orchard, even the sheep. And buy yourself a violin.

[Rebecca Shear]

Luciana's heart did a somersault in her chest.

[Luciana]

Are you serious? You want me to buy a violin?

[Lucio]

Having a violin has always been your dream, has it not? And to be honest, buying one for you has always been my dream.

[Rebecca Shear]

Luciana wiped away a tear. Then she reached down and wrapped Lucio in a hug.

[Luciana]

Oh, Father, thank you so much. I love you.

[Lucio]

And I love you, my child. Forever.

[Rebecca Shear]

Not long after that, Lucio was gone. Luciana had never felt so heartbroken or alone. But she did as her dearly departed father instructed. She sold the land and orchard, though she held on to the sheep.

[Luciana]

Tulip and petunia. Leave some clover for magnolia and bluebell. You fluff balls are hogging the whole patch.

[Rebecca Shear]

Luciana made just enough money from the sale to set aside a handful of coins for savings and spend the rest on a violin. Her first notes on her new instrument were shaky and uncertain. But Luciana practiced and practiced, and with each passing day, week, month and year, she felt more and more in command. The music that sailed forth from Luciana's violin was rich and beautiful. But there was a melancholy to it, a sense of sorrow and loss. You see, when Luciana's father was alive, she had shared everything with him. Her thoughts, her hopes, her dreams. Now that Lucio was no longer around, she had no one to turn to, save for her violin. So she poured her heart and soul into her plane, day after day after day. But while Luciana's musical prowess was growing, her savings were dwindling.

[Luciana]

I need to find some work and bring in some cash. In my wildest dreams, I would become a professional musician and earn money doing something I love. But let's face it, there aren't exactly a ton of opportunities for a violinist out here in the country.

[Rebecca Shear]

Luciana frowned, picked up her violin and went outside. Perhaps practicing in the warm summer air would help soothe her worries. But soon after, she settled on the porch and began to play.

[Luciana]

Tulip, what are you doing here? Did you come to hear my music? Petunia, you're here, too. And Magnolia and Bluebell. I had no idea you fluffballs were music fans. If I didn't know better, I'd say you were dancing indeed.

[Rebecca Shear]

As note after sweet note filled the air, the sheep were bobbing their heads and swaying back and forth.

[Luciana]

Well, if you fluffballs really want to cut a rug, this melancholy music will never do. I think it's finally time to try something different.

[Rebecca Shear]

Luciana paused for a moment, then began playing again. And for the first time ever, the music coming from Luciana's violin wasn't aching with grief. It was bursting with gaiety, brimming with so much life and energy that the notes seemed to skip, jump, and leap through the air. And get this, the notes weren't the only things skipping, jumping, and leaping. The sheep were, too. Tulip, Petunia, Magnolia, and Bluebell were all bouncing from hoof to hoof and shimmying their rumps as they danced in time to the music. Little did Luciana know, but her audience was about to get a whole lot bigger and wilder. What do you think will happen as Luciana keeps playing? We'll find out what it is after a quick break. If you're a Circle Round super fan, we've got a super fun opportunity for you. Join the Circle Round Club and you'll support our public radio podcast as this happy member raves get cool stuff, too.

[Evangeline]

My grandfather bought me a Circle Round membership last Christmas. I really like it because we get a stuffed lion and a reusable bag, which we use all the time for library books. I also enjoy the birthday message from Rebecca Shear.

[Rebecca Shear]

Grown Ups. Sign up your superfan [e-mail] CircleRoundClub welcome back to Circle Round. I'm Rebecca Shear. Today our story is called Dancing to a Different Tune. Before the break, Luciana was grieving the loss of her father, Lucio. As she played sad, melancholy music on her violin, her sheep came over and began to sway back and forth. Luciana was so delighted by the sight that she began playing more gaily, and the sheep followed suit. They started praying, prancing and dancing all over the lawn. And as the music continued, who should come scurrying over to join the flock? But a horde of mice, followed by a family of frogs, then a flock of birds, then a pack of wolves, then a tangle of snakes. And soon, animals from all corners of the countryside were running, crawling, jumping, winging, and slithering Luciana's way before boogying to her music. Luciana rose to her feet and began marching around the cavorting, capering critters. The animals formed themselves into a long line, following right behind her.

[Luciana]

Oh, so we're going to have a little parade, are we? Or a big parade, more like. Either way, follow me.

[Rebecca Shear]

With her elegant bow gliding back and forth and her fingers dancing across the strings, Luciana led the animals away from the farm and across the countryside. They jigged through meadows carpeted with flowers and forests thick with trees. They jived past rivers teeming with fish and mountains capped with snow. Next thing Luciana knew, they were parading past the royal palace with its gleaming stone towers and walls. And standing atop one of those walls was the king. He was surrounded by his royal guards, and much to Luciana's surprise, he was tossing back his crowned head and laughing.

[King]

Welcome to the palace, my friends. You must be the most entertaining visitors we have ever received.

[Rebecca Shear]

Luciana was so stunned that she stopped playing and the animals went still.

[King]

Oh, no, please don't stop the music or the dancing. Something tells me you are just what my daughter needs.

[Rebecca Shear]

Luciana had no idea what the king was talking about. She gave a little curtsy, then flashed him a nervous smile.

[Luciana]

Your Majesty, I appreciate your interest in our merry band, I truly do. But with all due respect, how could the animals and I possibly be of service to a princess?

[Rebecca Shear]

The king's face grew grim.

[King]

Haven't you heard? It's been years since the princess left. Ever since her mother died, my daughter has been melancholy, full of sorrow.

[Rebecca Shear]

Luciana felt a twinge in her heart. She, too, knew that feeling all too well.

[King]

I have offered a generous reward to anyone who can make the princess laugh again. Countless people have shown her their funniest tricks, told her their most hilarious jokes. She won't even crack a smile. But something tells me you will fare better. Well, you and your dancing Menagerie. Never before have I seen or heard such joy.

[Rebecca Shear]

The king turned to one of his guards and whispered in his ear. The guard then bustled into the palace. When he reappeared, he had the princess in tow. Her eyes were cast downward and her shoulders were slumped. The king laid a gentle hand on her arm.

[King]

My dear daughter, I have a surprise for you. I think you'll like it.

[Rebecca Shear]

The king gestured toward Luciana. The violinist smiled, took a breath, then lifted her bow to the strings and began to play. At the sound of such joyful and sprightly strains, the princess lifted her gaze at the sight of hundreds of animals frisking and frolicking to the beat. She straightened her shoulders. With each new note and phrase, her eyes grew brighter. Her lips curled into an arc. And for the first time in years, not only did the princess smile, but she laughed. She laughed and laughed and laughed. And when the music finally came to an end, she threw herself into her father's arms. The king beamed and turned to Luciana with admiring eyes.

[King]

You've done it. You've made my daughter laugh. Tell me, O talented one, what reward do you wish to have? What is something your heart truly desires?

[Rebecca Shear]

Luciana blushed.

[Luciana]

Honestly, your Majesty, the one thing my heart desires is music. I long to make music my livelihood, earning my daily bread by playing and performing and sharing my music with the world.

[King]

Is that so?

[Rebecca Shear]

The king tapped a bejeweled finger to his chin.

[King]

In that case, my daughter and I shall become your patrons.

[Luciana]

Patrons, your majesty?

[King]

Yes. We shall provide the money you need to devote yourself to your music. We'll make sure you're able to practice and keep your violin in top shape. And naturally, we'll want you to perform all across the kingdom to share this joy. What do you think?

[Rebecca Shear]

Luciana's heart felt like one of her dancing animals. It was jumping and leaping and bouncing inside her chest. She gratefully accepted the king's offer, and from that day forward, she played her violin for audiences far and wide. But Luciana didn't just provide them with music. She provided them with inspiration. Inspiration to dance, inspiration to dream, and inspiration to follow their hearts and maybe, just maybe, make music of their own. Now it's your turn. Luciana was passionate about making music. What's something you're passionate about? Perhaps you enjoy being in nature or practicing gymnastics. Maybe you love doing art or gathering with family during the holidays. Find some paper and draw a picture of you and your passion. When you're finished, share it with someone you have fun with. And if you'd like, share it with us. Ask a grown up to snap a photo of you and your drawing and email it to circleroundbur.org this week's episode Dancing to a Different Tune was adapted by me, Rebecca Shear with help from our composer and sound designer, Eric Shimalonis. Circle Round's editor is Dean Russell. Our artist is Sabina Hahn. Sabina has made a black and white coloring page for all of our Circle Round stories and you can print them out and color them in Grown Ups. Visit our website WBUR.org CircleRound and click on coloring pages. Special thanks to this week's actors Ryan Dallasung, Todd Schofield and Hilary Hahn. Three time Grammy Award winning violinist Hilary Hahn has made a career of connecting with fans and musicians of all ages from her recordings of the first three Suzuki violin books to her Bring youg Own baby concerts and 100 days of practice project on social media. Our featured instrument this week was, you guessed it, the violin. You can learn more about this stringed instrument that originated in Italy in the early 1500s and see a photo of Hilary Hahn playing her own by visiting our website. Again, that's WBUR.org CircleRound Grown Ups. If you enjoy Circle Round, please leave us a five star review on your favorite podcast app. And if you'd like to keep up with the latest Circle Round news, including announcements about upcoming live events, join the Circle Round Club as a member. You'll get early access to tickets plus exclusive swag, bonus bedtime stories, music education videos, ad free episodes. You can even get a personalized birthday message from me. Sign up today by clicking the Circle Round Club [e-mail] CircleRound Circle Round is a production of WBUR, Boston's NPR news station. I'm Rebecca Shear. Thanks for circling Round with us. Now that you've made it to the end of this Circle Round episode, we want to know what's your favorite Circle Round story. Thousands of fans just like you have been telling us about the Circle Round stories they like best. Take a listen. Maybe one of their favorites is one of yours too.

[Evangeline]

My name is Evangeline. I was born in Thailand but then we moved to Florida. My favorite Silk around story is Chameleon's Contest. I like when Sea God says sky God, Earth God. Can we talk for a sec? I think really funny. We love you Rebecca. She hear you give the best stories. My name is Eve, I'm from Alameda, California and my favorite Circle Round story is Catch you later. And my favorite part is when the ghost thinks there is another ghost in there, but it's his reflection. My name is Mabel and I live in ut. And my favorite circle on story is the three legged Pot. And my favorite part is when the three legged pot says it's time to skip and skip. My name is Ford and I live in Kentucky. And my favorite circle round story is the Bright Yellow hat. I like the part where Laura first finds out that the flowers can touch. My name is Ozzy and I'm from Colorado. And my favorite circle round is counting crocodiles. And I like the part where mouse deer hops on old crocodile's head. Hi, my name is George and I live in Washington. Seattle. My favorite circle on story is the Basilisk Stairs and my favorite part is when the basilisk turns to stone. My name's Chiri from Wedding, Massachusetts. My favorite circle round is the Early Bird. My name's Nix, I live in North Carolina. My favorite circle round story is Misery Loves Company. And my favorite part is When Olak meets Misery.

[Rebecca Shear]

Did someone mention a story you've missed? Not to worry grown ups. You can find all of our Circle Round stories stories plus links to the Circle Round Club, picture books, coloring pages and oh so much more on our website, WBUR.org CircleRound.