Break time!

It feels so good to relax! After a few crazy weeks of practice, travel, and performance, I'm able to go in to slow-down mode and relax until my performance schedule gets going again in September.  I'm looking forward to a few weeks to travel freely without my cello.  In the spirit of cello-related travel, I present my list of interesting (paraphrased) questions/comments that I received from fellow Delta Airlines travelers regarding my cello:

1. That a guitar? (most popular) - 8 times
2. So, you have to buy a seat for that thing? (close second) - 6 times
3. I bet you could fit a body in there! - 3 times
4. Would your travel buddy like a drink, as well? (from flight attendants, har har) - 2 times
5. :::BANGS on the case with fist::: What the HELL is this damn thing?! (Intoxicated woman) - 1 time
6. Ohhh, we had another one of those things [cellos, I assume] on this same flight yesterday!  Maybe you know her? She had a white case... (flight attendant) - 1 time

This was a surprisingly lax trip as far as guitar questions go.  And not one person came up to me and said, "Do you play the cello?"  Success!

As mentioned, I'm really looking forward to this break!  I'm going to reacquaint myself with Bach, begin learning the Haydn D Major Concerto, and start looking around for new music for the next 'Queering the Pitch' concert that I'll present in December-January. (though on a much smaller scale than this tour!)  If you know any gay or lesbian composers who might be interested in writing something - or who have already written a work for solo cello - let me know!  I'm always on the lookout for good music!

I was lucky enough to play fantastic concerts in San Francisco and Winter Haven, FL this week.  It was a real treat to play at the SF LGBT Center.  I'm a fan of getting out of the concert hall and experimenting with new venues, so I really loved the opportunity to play in this place where worthwhile work is being done.  I can't wait to begin an ongoing relationship with the Center. For those who read my last post about playing for small audiences, you know that I had a bit of a difficult time connecting to the five people who came to my first SF concert.  This was not the case at the LGBT center as we filled the room and everyone was so gracious and attentive.  Nobody left! Huzzah!  I felt much more alive playing this music for so many people.  It was great to see so many face that I knew and so many more that I didn't know.  I received wonderful comments and even signed two autographs (THAT was uncomfortable!!!)

Six concerts down, about 10 more to go September-November!  So exciting!

In other news, I'm looking for a new PR person to replace what I currently have.  Someone with better skills at getting the word out would be great.  I plan on basing my career out of the Bay Area and the west coast in general, so I need someone with ties out there!

I think for now, I'll sign off from the blog and drop out of sight in life too!

Best to all,
JD