Summer Joy

Summer nights outside with the Pacific Symphony are a sheer delight. Last night was "All That Jazz" with an emphasis on Gershwin. The symphony was joined by a jazz ensemble called the Shelly Berg Trio. And they were amazing together! This was the most emotive and by far the very best version I have ever had the privilege to hear of Gershwin's Rhapsody in Blue. Shelly Berg exudes pure joy as he plays jazz piano. His own piece, "Incandescent, Iridescent, Effervescent" is his own musical incarnation. He reminded me of the rafting guide we had last week who would periodically shout, "I LOVE my job!" , only Shelly communicates this with both his music and his whole body. Head back, mouth open, huge grin, body swaying--wow. He was completely in the zone as he played--pure uninhibited passion and rapture. James giggled at first, but I reminded him of how blessed he would be if he is fortunate enough to find a life's work that makes him feel like THAT. He got it. :)