As the travel season ramps up, there’s a special touch waiting for you at the Jacksonville International Airport (JIA). A dedicated group of volunteer musicians perform in the terminal, creating a warm, human moment amid the hustle of flights, bags and goodbyes.
The volunteer musician program at JAX is part of the broader arts-and-culture initiative of the Jacksonville Aviation Authority (JAA).
Picture arriving or departing, you’re at the baggage claim, or waiting near a gate, maybe a bit anxious about connections, time or meeting someone. Then you hear live saxophone, violin or other music floating through the concourse.
Cheryl Choate Bowen has been a JIA volunteer musician for the past ten years. She says her passion and enthusiasm for what the musicians do has only increased.
“I realize more and more how much of a difference our music truly makes in what can be at times, a highly charged, emotional environment. We participate in young people leaving home for college, people coming and going for marriages, deaths, births, vacations and it can be tough,” she said.
Airports can be hectic at this time of year with longer lines, more bags, delays. Live music helps reduce tension and encourages people to slow down. For visitors arriving in Jacksonville, the program shows the region’s culture welcoming guests in a special way. Hearing familiar melodies or seeing musicians they recognize is a nice touch.
Bowen is working on her Yuletide tunes and getting her Mrs. Claus outfit ready. Expressing the pleasure and gratitude she gets from performing, she notes, “Being able to use God given talent to share the greater good is a happiness I can barely describe. We need to share more love in the world.”
If you’re flying the friendly skies for the holidays, stop for a listen and take a deep breath. The music might just set the tone you want for a smooth flight.
If you’re interested in participating as a volunteer musician contact JIA’s Arts & Culture office at 904.741.3546.
