In this episode of "How to Share," host Wynne Leon engages in a captivating conversation with author and educator Nancy Shear about her memoir, "I Knew a Man Who Knew Brahms." Nancy shares her remarkable journey, beginning as a teenager who snuck into the Philadelphia Orchestra, which ultimately led to her career as an assistant librarian for the orchestra at just 17 years old. Through her stories, she recounts her encounters with legendary figures like conductor Leopold Stokowski and cellist Mstislav Rostropovich, revealing the behind-the-scenes workings of orchestras and the profound impact of music on her life. The discussion delves into the essence of classical music, its relevance in today's world, and the beauty it brings to our lives. Nancy emphasizes the importance of finding one's own path, especially for young people who may feel limited by financial constraints. Her insights on courage, creativity, and the transformative power of music resonate throughout the episode, leaving listeners inspired to embrace their own stories and opportunities.Takeaways:"If you have no choice, then you make a life.""Money is not necessary; it led to my going backstage and meeting all these people.""Beauty still matters in this battered world.""What is to lose? You’re walking into a room of human beings.""Writing the book was where the courage really came in."Links for this episode:How To Share Music transcriptI Knew a Man Who Knew Brahms by Nancy Shear on Barnes & Noble, Amazon and Simon & SchusterNancy Shear's website: https://nancyshear.com/From the host:Wynne's blog: https://wynneleon.com and book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith