GALLUPVILLE – A Schoharie County native who started playing music to connect with people during the COVID-19 pandemic has found a growing and appreciative audience on YouTube. Wally Jones, a 1961 graduate of Schoharie Central School, shares his unique piano and organ stylings on his channel, "WALLY JONES MUSIC."
Jones said the project began as a way to reach shut-ins and the elderly who were homebound during the lockdown. He describes the music not as entertainment, but as something more "therapeutic as an escape to enjoy and be lifted."
Each week, a new video of about three minutes is uploaded. The selections range from gospel standards like "The Old Rugged Cross" to popular songs such as "Let It Be" and classical pieces like "Ave Maria." The videos feature close-ups of his hands on the keyboard, and Jones adds his signature improvisations, which he calls "Wally notes," that are not part of the written music.
The channel has garnered heartfelt feedback from viewers across the country, who send letters and comments expressing their gratitude.
"Love to see your hands dancing along the keys so happily," wrote a viewer from Massachusetts. "Brought tears to my eyes - you're my heaven-sent angel."
The personal connection Jones has made with his audience is evident in their messages. "Wow! How does it feel to be famous at this age! You're a star! I'm a follower of you," wrote a fan from Colorado.
The comments range from deeply emotional to lighthearted. "My cat sat with me and he started purring like crazy," a New York viewer shared. Another wrote, "I like to listen to you while I bake."
One fan from Massachusetts summed up the feelings of many, writing, "I get my Wally fix for the day."
Wally’s next event at the Howe Caverns Community Church on Oct. 24 at 7pm with a Thanksgiving theme alongside other local organists. Benjamin Frisch is the Organist of the church and will be hosting the event. A free-will offering for the church is appreciated.
Find a sample of Wally’s music here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jWs4ouJAk-k and make sure to make it to the next
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