Maria and Ben Hanson are newlyweds in Rochester, Minn. Maria teaches social studies. Ben is a medical photographer at the Mayo Clinic. Choral singing brought them together. And the power of music held them together through Ben's deployment to Iraq a few years ago. Their stories about how music kept them focused will inspire you.

Bach: Prelude to Violin Partita No. 3, played by the San Francisco Saxophone Quartet. EMI 54132

Traditional: "Sweet Little Jesus Boy" performed by Kathleen Battle and Christopher Parkening. Sony 62723

Traditional: Iraqi Folk Song, performed by the Saxophone Quintet of the Red Bulls Band (Minnesota Army Reserves). Recording provided by the guest.

Brahms: "How Lovely Is Thy Dwelling Place" from A German Requiem with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and Chorus conducted by Robert Shaw. Telarc 80092

Seth Custer: "Come Thou Fount of Ev'ry Blessing" performed by the arranger. SoundForth 269886

Next week: Penny Freeh is a dancer and choreographer with an ear for music that moves.

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