I met Mary Beth Ions after a performance at The Normandy Breakwater Apartments in Rocky River, Ohio. My 96-year-old friend, Bob Wicktora, had invited me because she is one of his favorite musicians. To be honest, I only went to appease Bob that evening, and to spend some time with him, because I really never liked the sound of the violin!
What I hadn’t realized was that I’d only been listening up close to beginner violinists! Yes, I can still remember (painfully) my sister Janet trying to play, and then again much later, my granddaughter Katie trying to play, but honestly, it just was NOT pleasant to my ears, so I assumed I didn’t like the violin!
Well… I can now admit that I was ignorant!
Mary Beth Ions gave me a new perspective on violin music!
If you think of a violinist, do you think of someone seated, reading the music from a stand, playing the instrument without paying much attention to the audience? Mary Beth Ions, whom I call an “earth angel,” is determined to break the violinist stereotype that comes to mind for most people.
Mary Beth plays so beautifully that I could just close my eyes and be swept away. In fact, I could close my eyes and listen to her play ALL DAY LONG. But why would I do that, when I would miss SO much of her show!
Mary Beth Ions believes that ¾ of her audience might be watching and
Please don’t miss the clip of Mary Beth Ions and her violin at the beginning and again at the end of this video.
Then, please make a comment to me or Mary Beth in the comments section below.
I would be so happy if you would tell her how much you enjoy the video clips!
Mary Beth, a BIG THANK YOU to you!
Big THANK YOU to The Normandy Senior Living for making this episode of Aging Gracefully TV possible!
The Normandy Breakwater Apartments are located at 22701 Lake Road, Rocky River, Ohio 44116.
A marvelous musician with a heart for all ages, Mary Beth Ions has a heart of gold. She brought her mother, may she rest in peace, to as many concerts she played as possible. It was always a joy seeing Mrs. Ions sitting near the orchestra, & made those of us in the orchestra feel truly appreciated. Mary Beth is the most lyrical violinist I know. Great interview!
Dear Kathryn,
With Mary Beth Ions comes the whole everything. Met her at Eliza Jennings a few years ago and couldn’t believe what I was hearing and seeing. Her playing and personality are tops. Should she read this, may I say to you, Mary, that I was wrong when I claimed the movie, “A Star Was Born” was done in 1937 with Janet Gaynor and you mentioned that Judy Garland also starred in a movie of the same name. I mistaken in that I thought the first version was the only one. Thanks, Kathryn for feeling the same about Mary Beth, as I do.
Enjoyed the interview. What a lovely lady!!
Loved listening to Mary Beth playing the violin. It’s so wonderful what she does to help and enlighten someone’s day. Kathryn’s interview with her was very interesting to hear Mary Beth’s insight on aging.
I really look forward to reading all of Kathryn yoga tips and suggestions.
She is a wonderful instructor & person.
Oh, thank you so much, Fran, for your comments and compliment!
Kathryn, you and I had similar experiences when we “discovered” Mary Beth at The Normandy.
She is a personable and talented performer and will fill the house each time she comes here.
Yes! And I know she’ll be back this week!
Mary Beth reminded me of my grandmother’s stay in a nursing home. I often brought my two year-old grandson on my visits and the whole facility lit up seeing him. Really was joyful for the residents who snatched him up as he ran through the halls and, of course, for great-great grandma.
Great memories!
I really enjoyed hearing her music and story. Thank you to Mary Beth Ions and “Aging Gracefully” for this opportunity to enjoy her gift!
So glad you enjoyed!
Mary Beth Ions is a living treasure in Greater Cleveland More than a gift, she has a calling to reach out with her music, her movement, her humor,, thoughtfulness & her spirit to touch the souls of her audiences. In a senior facility, a library, Cain Park, Severence Hall, MetroHealth wedding… she brings her soul to waft through. Many people can play beautiful music but only a very few have the gift to lighten the burdens of those who hear & see their performance. Mary Beth Ions~~ an “earth angel.” indeed.
Agreed!