Sight-Reading
The Story of Bill Roberts
by
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Bill Roberts.
He is a very interesting man.
As you get to know him, the question arises… is he someone who was rescued by love and by music, or is he a man who dreamed his life into reality?
It was 2001 when I first met Bill. I met a retired Professor Emeritus from the Indiana University School of Music. He was always reading a book, some book, and referencing points from it. He seemed eager to learn, intent on self-improvement.
He is a kind man, with lively eyes. His white hair is a clue that he’s been down a road or two. He has a deep laugh that starts as a chuckle and ends with a “whew”. How he came to be this man, this person, is a longer journey than you might think.
Bill was one of those kids that started a hundred yards behind the starting line. Advantages were non-existent. Yet, at the occasional twist or turn, opportunity presented itself. Did Bill make good decisions? It is possible that his life looks filled with opportunities because his life turned out favorably. The reality of his history is that he is like the movie Seabiscuit, an underdog, coming from an era where a little belief and a dream or goal could prop you up just long enough. As I drive up to his beautiful home in a lovely neighborhood, I imagine that not many crossing his path understand from where he came, or the fascinating life he’s led. I certainly had no idea. As he turns 75, his personal philosophy rings true. But we’ll get to that later. The following manuscript is a compilation of Bill’s memories.
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About the Book
Originally intended as a Christmas gift for the grandchildren, Mary Jo Roberts requested that Bill sit down and document some of the experiences from Bill’s rich life. He talked over a period of several days, in one-hour increments, and recounted his memories. He opened his heart, generously sharing his life. During that time, there was much laughter and a common love of music between Bill and the Author. On a few occasions Bill had to struggle with certain memories as he relived painful moments, all in an effort to offer the overall picture of his life.
Two-thirds of the way through the interview process, the author saw more than just a document for Bill’s grandchildren to read later in life. An inspiring story was unfolding before her. Bill truly lived the American dream. Where he came from, did not limit him. He dreamed and dreamed, and worked very, very hard. The combination is the story of Bill Robert’s life.
About the Author
Susan W. Hinkle resides in