The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto

Loneliness was like an ogre hovering over those activities.

When she nodded, he played “Tea for Two” and “A-Tisket A-Tasket,” songs he listened to on the phonograph with El Maestro, each time beginning simply, then taking it to far corners and beautiful colors.

Things get taken away. You will learn to start over many times—­or you will be useless.”

Whose life was this?

There is a reason you glance up when you first hear a melody, or tap your foot to the sound of a drum.
All humans are musical.
Why else would the Lord give you a beating heart?

Everyone joins a band in this life.
Some of them break your heart

I Want To Love You” and “Our Secret,” but also instrumentals like “St. Louis Blues,” “Tiger Rag,” and Django Reinhardt’s “Parfum,” along with any

You cannot unplay your notes. Time, like music, is indelible that way.

Recuerdos de la Alhambra” by Tárrega

“‘Parlez-Moi d’Amour,’” Aurora said.