The Classical Mandolin Society of America held its convention Oct. 15 – 18 at the Holiday inn Midtown. The first night of music featured the Austin Mandolin Orchestra and the Paul Glasse Quartet. And being the versatile, always ready to experience new adventures TOWNies we are, we had an indoor outing!
Indeed it was an certainly enjoyable: listening to the Austin Mandolin Orchestra and the Paul Glasse Quartet. JudieT, NancyP, PennyM (with her friend Margo), and SheliaMcC joined Steve and me for some pretty unusual pieces of music. As well we had two friends join us there: Gary and Victor.
The Austin Mandolin Orchestra played 15 – one minute songs most of which were named for Texas native flowers. I have to admit not all 15 had the most ear appealing notes. Margo and I jumped several times when keys changed unexpectedly. Following those 15 songs, we heard five world premieres and their composers were in the audience. My favorite was Carousel by Evelyn Tiffany-Castiglioni – quite pleasing to the ear. Instruments included: mandolins, mandolas, mandocellos, guitars, and a double bass. In the orchestra are Nancy Lynch, a TOWN-Austin member, who played the mandolin, and Thomas Chapmond, the husband of Gail Penny-Chapmond our kayaking leader, playing the mandocello.
The second feature was the Paul Glasse Quartet which was outstanding, but then I’ve been listening to Paul’s music for likely 20+ years and do love his tunes. The foursome played selection of Texas swing, jazz, and big band music. Joining Paul were Mitch Watson (guitar), Gene Elders (violin), and Pat Harris (bass).
Paul is blessed with incredible talents and is a good-natured soul who creates great music. I truly believe (and I’m not alone) that Paul is the best jazz mandolinist you could ever hope to hear. Mitch, Gene, Pat, and Paul have performed and recorded together for decades and it’s obvious they enjoy the companionship and performing.
Jacque