Meaning: This quote by Tom Glazer, a musician and songwriter, reflects on the influence of music in his life and the various ways in which it was present within his family. Glazer acknowledges that music played a significant role in shaping his early experiences and ultimately sparked his interest in pursuing a career in the music industry.

In the quote, Glazer mentions that music was present in his family in two distinct ways. Firstly, he acknowledges his mother's occasional singing, which suggests that he was exposed to music through her vocal performances. While this may have contributed to his early exposure to music, Glazer suggests that it was his father's influence that had a more profound impact on him. He notes that he was predominantly stimulated by the classical music that his father had left behind. This indicates that his father's musical preferences and collection of classical music recordings played a crucial role in shaping Glazer's musical tastes and interests.

Furthermore, Glazer attributes his initial interest in music to having "an ear for music." This suggests that he had a natural aptitude for recognizing and appreciating musical sounds, melodies, and harmonies from a young age. This innate ability likely heightened his sensitivity to the classical music that surrounded him, thereby igniting his curiosity and passion for music.

Tom Glazer's quote underscores the idea that exposure to music within the family environment can have a formative influence on an individual's relationship with music. In his case, the combination of his mother's singing, his father's classical music collection, and his own innate musical inclination collectively contributed to the development of his interest in music.

Tom Glazer's career as a musician and songwriter further exemplifies the lasting impact of his early exposure to music within the family. He went on to achieve success in the music industry, creating a diverse body of work that included folk songs, children's music, and contributions to the American folk music revival of the mid-20th century. His experiences with music within the family setting likely provided a strong foundation for his future endeavors in the field.

In conclusion, Tom Glazer's quote sheds light on the multifaceted ways in which music permeated his family life and influenced his musical journey. It underscores the significance of familial influences, natural aptitude, and early exposure in shaping an individual's passion for music. Ultimately, the quote serves as a testament to the enduring impact of family dynamics and early experiences on a person's musical development and career path.