Amy Anderton loved music more than life itself
When smartphones came out, it wasn’t the camera or texting that appealed to her, but being able to store and stream music. She went to concerts as often as some people go to the supermarket. With her background as a violinist, she appreciated and loved all genres of music.
But the other equally important constant that ran throughout her life was teaching. She loved children and for 20 years, taught children of all ages in various capacities. She saw children as the future. Her love of teaching, her ability to spread joy in everything she did, her generous personality, and the way she brought out the best in her students—often making them aware of abilities they never realized they had—defined her rare and unique gift.
Amy was a true artist in everything she did. She brought art to cooking, painting, writing, decorating, conversations, and of course, music. Her support for my musical and writing career was unshakable. Her fierce intelligence gave me the critiques and insights that pushed my music and writing further, while her gorgeous vocals enhanced every song that included them. And my friends still marvel that I was married to someone who, when seeing my hesitation about buying another guitar, asked “well, are you sure you have enough guitars?” She knew I wanted it and said if I was concerned about the price, she’d buy it for me.
But that was Amy. Her joy always came from giving, whether it was to students, homeless shelters, her friends, the community, or causes she supported. Nor was it about sacrificing. She balanced her life by knowing how to give to herself too, as well as gratefully accept the love others gave back to her. You couldn't help but love Amy. Her unflinchingly positive nature, up until the very end, was irresistible.
This grant exists to further Amy’s support of music and education. Amy was humble, and didn’t want any dramatic memorial services or even a funeral. But I know she would approve of this way to commemorate, and honor, the joy she brought to so many people over too short a lifetime.
For the highly evolved woman who felt music was more important than life itself, it’s only fitting that her love of music and teaching will carry on. Her generous spirit manifests itself in the Amy Anderton Music Education Grant, to continue helping those who are teaching future generations about the joy—and importance—of music.
– Craig Anderton
