When a young Latter-day Saint woman named Emily Farmer passed the local retirement home one day on her jog, she had no idea that soon she would soon find a beautiful friendship full of music and inspiration.
When she jogged past, she felt the distinct impression to walk inside and get to know some of the local residents. Emily always had a love for music, so she offered to play the piano for them sometime. The staff thought this was a great idea and asked if she would like to play something then and there! Emily felt like it was a perfect time and decided to take a moment to play some songs.
Emily is a classical pianist, comparable to artists like Paul Cardall, and has worked tirelessly for her talent in piano. Emily sadly suffered from multiple traumatic brain injuries in her lifetime, one in particular that caused her to forget how to play the piano. But her deep love of music and service gave her the strength to relearn and once again acquire her talent for playing.
McEwan “Mac” Voorhees was in the audience when Emily began to play, and he instantly felt a connection to this kindred spirit as he too had a deep love for music. Soon after her performance, Mac and Emily became friends and bonded over their love of music. One important fact we can’t forget? At the time of their meeting, Mac was 103 years old.
Emily, who is 28, formed a wonderful friendship with Mac, and soon after the two had a wonderful idea to start writing music together. As they started collaborating on their music, they soon realized that if they were to create an album together, Mac would be the oldest person ever recorded on a debut album.
As they started recording their new debut album, the friendship between Mac and Emily only grew stronger. Sadly, Mac passed away just three months before the album was to be released. Emily felt absolutely crushed at his death and deeply felt the loss of her close friend.
At one of the lowest moments for Emily, she remembered a promise she had made with Mac, a promise to spread sunshine and joy with their music. She felt deep within her heart that the world needed to hear their music, and it was all the motivation she needed to finish the album for her best friend Mac.
This heartfelt and deeply meaningful album is now available on Emily’s website here and on iTunes here.
During these complicated and often discouraging times of the global pandemic, Emily and Mac’s album is a peaceful reminder of the goodness that resides within each and every soul. As children of our Father in Heaven, we share a unique bond and commonality that can bring us so much closer together in this life and the life to come. You can watch one of their sweet music videos below.
Devin is a graduate of Brigham Young University where he studied English and Business Management. He is a writer, photographer, movie-fanatic, and a lover of street tacos. He served his mission in Tokyo, Japan.
