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This column is dedicated to acknowledge examples of positives that express the community spirit of Columbus – our town.
There is a sense of magic when one watches Robert Sanders as his hands glide across the piano keys. Of course, there isn’t any magic – there are just years of practice and performances that produce his expertise. Mr Sanders is a man whose life has been an atmosphere of music education and a home life that offered a love of music. He has never lived in a house that did not have a piano. His professional training led to a masters degree in music education and performance. The influence of his parents can hardly be measured. Both parents were teachers and his father was a principal. One of the most meaningful times of training for Robert was in Yoakum, Texas. He studied for eight years with Sister Laurianna in Yoakum. It is interesting to note that his parents attended all of those lessons. What a strong atmosphere to have the parents observe all those lessons! One certainly can’t imagine that routine in today’s society. Frankly, for working parents, this practice must have been somewhat of a sacrifice as to time.
Robert has spent time in Europe both studying and performing. He spent some time as a producer in Dallas, Channel 13 PBS. He had experience with many names in the Jazz world – famous names such as Ozzie Davis and Rudy Dee.
The community is always pleased when they see the name of Robert Sanders on a program such as a community choir performance. Last Christmas, after the Community Choir Program, Director Steven Spanihel presented Mr Sanders with the donation that had been given to the choir. Glidden Baptist Church followed suit by buying a new roof for Robert’s home. Glidden Baptist member Jordan Rutta was the carpenter who did the task of installing the roof. Seems quite evident that Robert Sanders is greatly appreciated in our town.
Christina Williams, Robert’s friend, accompanied him to our interview. She shared with me that there is a Go Fund Me page for Robert on Facebook. Cheers for all who show Robert Sanders their appreciation for his contribution to our community.
On Sundays, you will find Mr Sanders at Greater Smith Baptist Church where he is the church pianist.
