no.53 130622 Thank you for my perfect pitch

My piano was a gift from my grandpa when I was in kindergarten

I have this thing called 'perfect pitch' where I recognize a musical note when I hear it. For instance, when I hear a classical music, I can tell the notes. When I discovered that I had this ability, I didn't think it was special because I thought everyone had it. I think I first found this out when I was listening to George Winston's 'Variations on Canon' in his album called 'December'. I was in grade one or two, and I remember this album repeatedly playing in my dad's car (probably at my request). I liked most of the songs in the album, but I particularly enjoyed listening to Canon. I still have the cassette tape with me.

Perhaps from listening to this song over and over, I memorized the tune and I would sing the notes along with the music. My parents were amazed by it and they asked me where I learn the notes from. I remember telling them I can hear the notes. That's when I learned that not everyone had this talent. From that point on, I felt kind of special... until later when I met some people who also have the same 'power'. I'm not sure if this is something that I was born with or something I picked up because I was exposed to music at a young age. I started learning piano when I was in kindergarten (I think), and I wanted to learn violin when I was in grade one.

I'm not sure if this can be a valid reason, but this is why I can't listen to music while studying. Even listening to a calm classical piece, it just sounds like someone singing notes 'sol-la-si' to me. So I get easily distracted.

I'm thankful for my perfect pitch. I haven't had the chance to use this ability yet. Well, it was helpful during my high school years when I took music classes. I guess I'm seeking for an opportunity to use my 'power'. Hopefully someday it will be useful somehow!