Wine, Women, A Coupla Men, and Cellos

The combination of good food, good wine, good music, and good company never fails to please, and tonight's get-together was no exception.

For the past 3-4 years my cello circle, which includes my friend Joan, our teacher Pall, his wife Jane, and often another cello student or two, would organize a house concert where we would enjoy some good wine, perform several pieces, and finish up with a delicious pot luck dinner. Music, in the small, intimate setting of one's living room, is such a treat.

Tonight, we included the very talented Kaeli (standing next to me) who is home briefly from school before she is off again, touring the country with her band (for which she plays jazz bass). This young woman has a very bright and musical life ahead of her, and I know we will see her name in lights in the not-too-distant future! In addition to the musical performances, our conversation ranged from discussion of baroque techniques, to stories about being on the road, the new Pope, gaining a pilot's license, and cellos!

Above, left to right, me, Kaeli, Joan and Pall - big thank you to Richard for snapping this photo!

On tonight's program:
Telemann Sonata #2 - duet
Kummer Duet for 2 Cellos - Andantino
Breval Sonata in C maj.
Bach Solo Suite #2 - Prelude and Allemande
Shostakovitch concerto (1st movement)
Edward Elgar - Salut d'Amour

On tonight's menu:
Tamale Pie
Quinoa salad
Roast Kale
Snickerdoodles
Washed down with several bottles of red wine from US, France, Spain

I'm already looking forward to our next get-together!