Jay Ungar’s “Ashokan Farewell” sounds like traditional music, but of course it was composed for a documentary series that Ken Burns created for PBS, The Civil War.
The YouTube posting of that piece demonstrates the power of music. In addition to providing access to Ungar’s evocative and beautiful performance, comments posted to the page document the widely varied individual reactions the music elicits, serving as a significant emotional touchstone for many, who through it experience an immediate connection to profound moments in their lives.
Some recalled lost loved ones, or weddings. One undoubtedly crystalized the thoughts of many, writing, “I don’t know why, but this song makes me nostalgic of a time I never knew.” The music is poignant and reading the posted comments itself can be an emotional experience.