Remembering Mr. Hammond
My #ThemeSong today, once again, is Helplessness Blues by Fleet Foxes. It's one of my all-time favorites, and today the chorus calls to mind the life of SamHammond, long-time carillonneur at Duke University (53 years, daily(!)) and generous accompanist for Duke University String School (local elementary through high-school students, many on scholarship), who passed away recently.
“If I had an orchard, I’d work 'til I’m sore.” I’ve only met one other man whom this verse calls to mind (small-town lawyer and father, Ben Gardner); and I count it my blessing to have crossed paths with them both.
Mr. Hammond accompanied my daughter, who is now in college, on violin and viola as well as my son, who is now 10 years old, on cello; and both are incredibly saddened by his departure from their world. We are all grateful to have had the presence and example of such a gentle, giving, unassuming and talented soul in our lives.
Five or so years ago, Sam accompanied my daughter on one of Vivaldi's four seasons - I think she was trying out for Youth Symphony Orchestra - and I tried to pay him. He politely refused (at least twice), and then told me I could donate to the string school scholarship fund instead, which I did. Then he suggested to my daughter that she learn all 4 of Vivalid's seasons and offered to accompany her in a solo concert if/when she did. Though I pleaded with her, this never happened; but we have never forgotten this demonstration of Mr. Hammond's generosity.
Mr. Hammond's physical appearance embodied his generous spirit: he had the unmistakable round, rosy cheeks and genuine smile of a truly good person - like one of Santa's elves, we thought. My son immediately took to Sam the first time he accompanied him, and, from then on, they both sort of glowed when they practiced or played together, which I always thought gave them an angelic appearance; Sam certainly brought out the angel in my little boy.
Below is my favorite String School photo. My son is practicing with Sam before a beginner concert in the Nelson Music Room on Duke campus. Their mutual enjoyment is unmistakeable in the glowing smiles on their faces. No audience was necessary; the music they were making together was an end in itself.
Sam's shining goodness lives on in my children, who will never forget him, and all those who had the pleasure and good fortune to make music with him.
Goodbye Sam - in body, but not in Spirit. We need more people like you in this world.
✌🏽
Melissa (Rooney)
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If you missed my last post, you can find it here: http://www.melissarooneywriting.com/blog/2021/03/eulogy-for-my-2014-macbook-air/ . My laptop can be replaced but Sam cannot 😢.
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