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I drove over to campus this afternoon to check my mail and to pick up some equipment from Eric. He was rehearsing for a recital in which he’s performing this coming Thursday with acclaimed musicians Livia Sohn, Barry Shiffman, and Frederick Weldy. They were practicing Brahms Piano Quartet #3 to a crowd of one — me — when I walked into Campbell Recital Hall.

That was quite a trip to sit in Campbell, accompanied by the wonderfully melodic sounds from Livia’s violin, Barry’s viola, Eric’s cello, and Fred’s grand piano. When I was a kid back in San Diego, I played piano, but let’s face it, I wasn’t very good. Mr. Parker was a patient man, but I had more artistic than musical skill. These people, however, showed me what can be wrought with tremendous talent and years of practice. I’m really looking forward to the recital this coming Thursday! At my last count, Sophia, Randy, and Rae were thinking of coming too.

The rehearsal ran from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm, and I was there from 2-3:00 pm. 2:00 in the afternoon! It’s amazing what things you can see, hear, and experience when you have the time. This is what I missed when I was working in corporations over the past two years; I’m glad to have rediscovered this trove of opportunities.

After the rehearsal, we went over to Barry’s apartment to play with his new puppy. Ferguson is one adorably cute 10-week old Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever. In the 17th century, settlers in Nova Scotia began using these small red dogs to catch fowl without the use of guns. Ferguson is just getting used to the whole retrieval thing, as he was a little bit miscoordinated while trying to catch the various balls, sticks, and toys we were throwing. Given time, I’m sure the little hunter in him will make his presence known!

Got a couple more pictures to share from today’s rehearsal with Brahms. Click on the link below to enter the photogallery!