The Music of Reverential Mourning: The Lying in State Ceremony for Senator Dianne Feinstein

For the Lying in State ceremony of San Francisco Mayor Dianne Feinstein, musician Mario Tsz-Chun To provided what seemed impossible; reverential emotional release without words. A select group of musicians chosen from the San Francisco Opera, San Francisco Symphony, and San Francisco Conservatory of Music performed at this event honouring Ms. Feinstein who served as the 38^th Mayor of San Francisco in addition to three decades as a United States Senator in Congress. Notably in attendance at the ceremony were: Representative of California’s 12^th District and 52^nd Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, San Francisco Mayor London Breed, Dr. Anthony Fauci (of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), and former San Francisco Mayor Willie Brown.

In a solemn environment such as this, music provides the comfort of eliciting emotional catharsis. Classical guitarist Mario Tsz-Chun To is one of the most highly respected members of the San Francisco music community. When agreeing to perform at this ceremony for Mayor Feinstein, he took great thought and care in selecting the appropriate musical pieces to set the proper tone. He states, “When I was asked to play, the short notice meant I had to quickly decide on the repertoire and prepare it in a way that would do justice to the occasion. I wanted the music to reflect her strength, dedication, and service, and I had to make sure it felt meaningful to the audience. At the same time, I had to ensure the pieces flowed well with the schedule of the ceremony and created the right emotional atmosphere. Preparing to play for Dianne Feinstein’s lying-in-state ceremony was a deeply moving and meaningful experience. I spent time reading about her incredible legacy and the impact she had on so many lives, letting her story guide the mood of my performance. I chose music that felt respectful and uplifting, meant to honor her memory and provide comfort to those in attendance. There was a very long line of attendees to pay their respect while I played. I understand that while my expertise is in classical music, I maybe could connect with the attendees better by playing timeless classics that fit into the ceremony such as ‘Somewhere Over the Rainbow’ and ‘Tears in Heaven’ by Eric Clapton.”

  The musical numbers included in Mario’s contributions that day ranged from the traditional such as Bach’s “Prelude from Cello Suite No.1”, Francisco Tárrega’s “Lagrima”, and “Cavatina” by Stanley Myers, to the aforementioned Harold Arlen & Yip Harburg (“Somewhere Over the Rainbow”) and Eric Clapton & Will Jennings collaboration (“No More Tears in Heaven”). Mario refers to the gravitas of the moment for himself stating, “I was very aware of my playing during the ceremony. I was highly focused on every detail—how I played each note, the volume, and the pace—to make sure it expressed the right feelings. Emotionally, I felt a lot of pressure to get it just right. It was such an important event, and I wanted to play in a way that truly honored Senator Feinstein and gave the attendees a moment of reflection and peace. Despite the challenges, I put all my focus and heart into the performance to make it as meaningful as possible. The most rewarding aspect of performing at Senator Dianne Feinstein’s lying-in-state ceremony was the opportunity to contribute to a moment of profound historical and emotional significance. To be part of such a meaningful event, honoring the life and legacy of a trailblazing leader, was an incredible privilege that I will always carry with me. It wasn’t just about the music—it was about being able to provide a space for reflection, healing, and connection for everyone present.”

Writer : Winston Scott