Scotland Day 1

Today we took the ferry from Belfast to Scotland.  It was a beautiful trip.  The ferry was not what we expected.  Robert said he thought we would have seats, but we walked from where the bus was parked on the 5th floor to the 7th floor and the students immediately dispersed into a huge space that looked like a large airport lobby. . . restaurants, shops, video game room, movie theatre and more.  I've never been on a cruise ship, but suspect they are like this.  The 8th floor was the same, and on the top 10th floor, there was even a spa.  There were several groups of students playing cards.  Found out they have a yuker tournament going.   All eventually took time to go outside on the deck and just enjoy the scenery.  Looking forward to the return trip!

The students played really beautifully tonight. . . new program for Scotland with no Irish tunes.  They  are paying attention to detail and really performing the pieces on a high level.  The Brahms overture was almost played without a conductor.  The audience was small, but appreciative.

The Jazz Septet played on the first half of the concert, and we're so proud of the students and how they are playing together.  When we got back to the Premier Inn where we're staying, they noticed a piano bar right next to the hotel.  Allan and Neil asked if they could play, and the manager said yes.  I know the students loved it.  While concert halls are great, the feel of jazz in a venue like this is fun.  We were all treated to Neil's fabulous jazz singing and saxophone playing in the first piece they performed.  I know he inspires the students.  They may play there again tomorrow night.

Tomorrow is our final performance at Glasgow University Chapel at 3 pm.  We have listened to ten concerts in the past 11 days, but as one of the adults on the tour said tonight, it's always wonderful to listen to them perform.  The music of young people playing so well nurtures the soul over and over again.