During a church service in 2011 the Bible Hill resident noticed the lovely display of poinsettias. That visual became the starting point of his third book of lyrics.
“Looking at those poinsettias started it … I just exploded with Christmas lyrics,” said Rector. “I always have things going on in my head … (and) I can make one in one morning.”
Rector wrote 15 Christmas lyrics and came up with melodies
for most of them but he didn’t know what to do with the creations. He then decided to compile them into a book, which is now titled ‘Roots Ghosts Christmas.’
The book consists of 46 creations divided into three sections of local, Maritime and Christmas themed lyrics.
“All the ideas are ideas we talk about as Maritimers … and I like the snapshots of local historical stories. I grew up in this area and there are less and less people writing and there’s a lot here to write about.”
For example, he said, some lyrics embrace area mainstays such as The Thirsty Church, Pearl and Daisy, and Bass River Rocker, to name a few.
“I like to remember our roots and every household listens to music so there is relevance for everyone.”
Rector admits other than some demos, his lyrics have never been recorded. However, he’s eager to talk to musicians and others interested in bringing musical life to his words.
“I’m always looking for musicians to do the music,” said Rector, adding St. David’s Church choir has performed the Poinsettia Reminder song and VON caregivers have made use of some of the lyrics as well.
“I get satisfaction from that,” he said.
The book costs $17 and can be purchased at MacQuarries Pharmasave in Bible Hill, Mingo Music Sales and the Colchester Historeum. Rector also had copies at the Mountain Golf and Country Club in East Mountain.
Twitter: tdnMonique
PROFILE
Who: Terry Rector
Resident of: Bible Hill
Age: 58
Newest lyric book: Roots Ghosts Christmas
Previous books: Lend Me Your Ears (2003) and
Apple Tree Green (2006)
Member of: Nova Scotia Music Association
Contact him at: [email protected]
To listen to some of his demos: terrycarterrectorreverbnation.com and
TerryCarterRectorLyricistmusicnovascotia.ca
