If music be the food of love, play on...

The opening lines of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night certainly provide the perfect introduction to this month’s musical musings.

With Valentine’s Day imminent, February is of course the month of love and music will be at the “heart” of many expressions of love exchanged on February 14.

Indeed, music and love have been inseparable partners for generations, with love songs and music inspired by love, an enduring combination.

Sadly, the days of lovers being wooed by songs at their balcony windows may be long gone (I will happily be proved wrong on this point). However, many modern day troubadours continue to write and perform music that lovers adopt as their special song - most often accompanying the traditional “first dance”; at a wedding - or maybe becoming the party piece at karaoke nights. Whatever the occasion, or reason, for that special resonance, the music is a trigger, evoking memories and feelings long after the initial event or situation has passed.

Indeed, many people working in dementia treatment often highlight the importance of music and the benefits of music therapy for clients.

The Now That’s What I Call Music series released a Love Songs collection back in November last year and of the 60 featured tracks on the album the majority have been around for many years - thereby endorsing the longevity of the genre. However, contemporary songwriters and musicians continue to find inspiration in love and relationships, albeit with many of 2018’s hits (The Chainsmokers, Dean Lewis, Lana Del Ray, Florence + The Machine) reflecting on past love and moving on, but nevertheless clearly illustrating the power of music to explore highly emotional topics that speak very directly to audiences.

As always with Music Matters, this column seeks to inspire readers to engage more fully in music, and Peterborough continues to offer some fantastic opportunities for music lovers of all ages to participate in and simply enjoy music. The Peterborough Centre for Young Musicians offers open days at its Saturday morning sessions in Orton, and both the Peterborough Youth Orchestra and Peterborough Community Orchestra will welcome new members. For pathways into learning and playing music in the city email: musichub@peterborough.gov.uk

Finally, this month there is still time to enter a new Music Festival for the city. Signature Music Festival is a new competitive festival for young musicians developed in partnership with Peterborough Music Hub.

This year’s festival will be held at the Citadel in Peterborough on March 26-29. The closing date for entries is 28 February 2019.

Turn to page 56 for more on the festival.