Spring Festival in China evokes similar excitement and buildup as Christmas in the US, at least in my experience. It’s a time for family, for gratitude and well wishes, and of course, eating. I remember braving the cold in the northeast, feeling the anticipation in the air as nearly everyone was off work.

I think we need breaks like this during the year, special times in which we can gather, reflect, and celebrate. Much like the structure of music, culture requires some consistency, and some variation. Happy Lunar New Year to all who celebrate it. May the year of the Tiger bring health, joy, and prosperity.