The Soundtrack Of Your Life: How Live Music Brings Comfort & Nostalgia In Farewells

My Personal Experience With Loss

Loss has been a constant thread in my life, woven through both people and pets, shaping my understanding of love, grief, and spirituality. Each passing has been an invitation to reflect, grieve, and give gratitude for the lessons & love that I have been blessed with in that connection.

My first profound loss came at age 16, when my father died suddenly, just as we had uprooted our lives to support his career move back to Colorado. He was my biggest fan—the kind who cheered too loudly at performances, whistled ear-shatteringly from the audience, and teared up at every song I sang. The last concert he attended was a '50s-themed dinner show where I sang Unchained Melody, never realizing how those lyrics would soon take on a haunting new meaning. Weeks later, I found myself singing that same song at his ICU bedside and, later, On Eagle’s Wings at his funeral. Music, one of his greatest joys, became my gift to share including his favorites, from Ritchie Valens' La Bamba to John Denver’s Sunshine on My Shoulders, now a soundtrack to my grief and remembrance.

Over the years, grief continued its steady rhythm—my mother, sister, aunt, my great-grandmother, and countless friends and fans all making their transitions. Each loss carried echoes of the ones before, compounding grief. In each of those moments, I turned to music, curating playlists in remembrance or immersing myself in melodies that held space for sorrow, healing, and love. Music has continually served a purpose to allow emotions to flow where words just seem entirely redundant and unnecessary. (Read My Original Poem "Grief Is Compounding At The End Of This Blog)

The Songs We All Share

Music has a way of bringing all of us together, reminding us that we share more similarities than differences. Certain songs evoke nostalgia, sentimentality, and an almost universal emotional connection. At memorials, celebrations of life, and burials, there are always familiar requests—songs that transcend generations and backgrounds, weaving themselves into the fabric of remembrance. Songs such as "What A Wonderful World," "In My Life," "The Wind Beneath My Wings," "Ave Maria," "In My Life," "Both Sides Now," "Let It Be," and countless others come to mind.

Over the years, I have curated a vast catalog of music thatI feel resonates deeply across all demographics, beyond mere popularity, generation or personal taste. These are songs that speak directly to the heart and soul, carrying the weight of love, romance, loss, and joy. When I perform them, I do so with intention & passion, knowing that music has the power to hold space for grief, healing, and celebration in ways words often cannot.

When a song is played at a farewell, it becomes etched into the memory like the grooves of an old vinyl record—forever tied to that moment, that person, that feeling. And whenever a loved one wishes to bring them back, all it takes is a single note to summon their presence once more.

Curating The Soundtrack Of A Life For The Final Album

Music has a unique way of connecting us across generations, serving as a bridge between memories and emotions. Whether you're growing older or simply seeking deeper connections with loved ones, sharing music can be a powerful way to bond. A simple question like, "What song would you want played at your funeral?" can open the door to meaningful conversations about life, legacy, and final wishes. It’s an opportunity to discuss not only music but also the details that matter—whether it's a preference for live music, a special flower arrangement, or the desire to have ashes scattered in a meaningful place.

I invite you take that time to curate the soundtrack of your life—songs that hold memories of people, places, and sacred moments. Share these stories with your loved ones and encourage them to do the same. Music is more than just sound; it is an imprint of our experiences, a record of our love and joy. And one day, when we are no longer here, these songs will remain—etched into the hearts of those who carry our memory, like a timeless album of the lives we've touched. Maybe, if possible, you & your family might choose me to infuse the love & meaning into those special songs as part of your parting celebrations.

A Compassionate Voice for Life’s Farewells

Planning a funeral, celebration of life, or memorial is a deeply personal experience, and it would be my honor to help you create a meaningful tribute through music and ceremony. My role extends beyond simply providing a service—I approach each gathering with empathy, thoughtfulness, and a deep respect for the life being honored.

Services Offered:

• Live Vocal Performances – Thoughtfully curated songs to honor and remember your loved one.

• Personalized Song Selection – Assistance in choosing music that reflects their life, legacy, and the emotions you wish to convey.

• Compassionate Officiant Services – If you are not working with a priest or church-affiliated leader, I offer non-denominational officiation, including:

  • A beautifully crafted service with a heartfelt tribute to their life.

  • Incorporation of readings, poetry, scripture, or blessings from any tradition.

  • Guidance for designated speakers, ensuring a seamless and meaningful flow.

  • Integration of special songs within the service.

This is more than just a contract of services—it is a shared journey of remembrance. With care, kindness, and a healing presence, I will help create a tribute that truly honors your loved one’s spirit and legacy.

My Original Poem: Grief Is Compounding

by Celeste Barbier

Grief is compounding,

Each departure from life,

Becomes a tally mark etched

Into the chambers of my heart.

Another candle lit,

In prayer, in remembrance.

With each transition,

With each loss,

Grief Is Compounding

Time and people passing,

Flickering candles accumulate,

Illuminating my inner sanctum,

Accompanied by sentimental songs,

Photo albums and home movies,

Forever playing on repeat,

Edited scenes of emotion.

Grief is compounding,

New death brings pause,

Tears tracing familiar trails,

A pilgrimage of anguish,

My chest tightens,

Ready to burst from within,

Memory-filled chambers,

The pause feels perpetual.

Grief is compounding,

We either survive those we love,

Or play the tragedy in their story.

One day, I can only hope,

I will be a candle forever lit,

A groove forever etched,

Into someone's grieving heart,

Dearly departed in loving memory.