NYC 2007

For me, NYC is one magical adventure. Working in the business 7 days a week, up to 14 hours a day for 5 months becomes a safe institution with challenges, but for the most part you are doing the 'same ole, same ole' every day. Suddenly stepping out of the uniform every day meaning chef jacket, cap and Crocks into jeans, boots, shirts seems strange, but then to re-unite with my piano is a thrill. Preparing for a performance class at Carol Montparker's Studio in Huntington, NY.

Flew from SLC to JFK non-stop. 9 guys from WY and ID on a plane and only three of the nine had ever been in NYC before!
Landing was perfect, great ride into the city. Stayed at a lovely hotel, The Wolcott on 31st between 5th Ave. and Broadway.

After settling in the rooms we all walked to Times Square. So many people and such bustling energy. A complete upside down situation from where we came from! We purchased Metro Passes for the Subways and sure enough hopped on one to the famous Christopher Street. Took the guys to the famous Stone Wall Bar. The beginning of the Gay Movement in America exploded into reality in that bar in 1969. I remember it well... and not without strange emotions as I was in NYC in 1969. After the walk through memory lane we took the subway to the hotel and slept in anticipation of the next day.

Most everyone did their own thing. Monday was spent in Central Park. The park is simply wonderful. Many photos. Had lunch at the Boat House. Walked until my feet were screaming for relief.

I waited for the guys to catch up with me at the Entrance into the park near Columbus Square. While standing in the hot sunshine, watching a tap dancer entertain the people, a filming crew showed up and began interviewing people, asking questions regarding health. It seemed from out of no where they suddenly were interviewing me! Filming the entire event!!! I answered the questions regarding everything from cancers to depression and signed the release to use my face and silly answers on the cable show they were filming for.

After another walk through the park three of us went to what used to be the Metrople Restaurant in the Village for dinner. It is now "Les Deux Gamins" at 189 W. 10th St. Great food. Then a walk about the villiage and home to bed.

Tuesday was a special day. I spent the day in one the most sacred places on the planet: The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
I love this space and the Greek and Roman Saturday were marvelous. I have always fantasized that possibly all these pieces of art actually come to life when the lights go out! The main attraction was the Rembrandt exhibition.

Wednesday: the MOMA. Museum of Modern Art. Here I become crazy! Picasos, and two of my favorite artists, Van Gogh and Monet... Had a deeeeelicious lunch. Sandwich made with Maine lobster, salad and mushroom soup! Then back to the boards, endless miles of breath taking art.

Before going to the MOMA I stopped by Carnegie Hall and purchased my ticket to hear Andras Sshiff play four Beethoven Sonatas. I have never in my life sat in the Parquet section! I blew the money and bought a seat 8th row back center aisle.
The most amazing view of the piano and stage. He played like a GOD! My feet did not touch the ground all the way back to the hotel...

Thursday was another overwhelming event. Alex Grey's Chapel of Sacred Mirrors. I have loved this mans work forever, but finally saw the gallery with my own two eyes. I could write a small book about this place and what was spinning in my head.
Had lunch at a small French Cafe. Tony's back was killing him, so we walked to the Chinese Massage and he had a long massage. Thursday evening I attended my 9th live performance of Phantom of The Opera and yes I cried. I love the music and the story. I believe the Angel of Music caresses my heart and soul more than ever...

Friday walked to Penn Station and took the Long Island Rail to Huntington to perform in a class with my coach, Carol Montparker. Seymour Bernstein was not able to work with me this year so I spent Friday afternoon and evening with the Taubs and next morning awoke to Bach being played on the Steinway. Delicious breakfast and then Carol and I worked on music. Two hours of intense playing and conversation. Exchanging ideas, different ways to approach the music making it more beautiful and enjoyable to perform it.

Took the train back into the city around one PM. My mind spinning with all the ideas and sounds we had created while in Huntington. Met up with Erin in the afternoon. Went to dinner. Then had too much wine! Not good for my body. A bit of wine I love, but I got carried away and suffered in ever so many ways. I have a horrible habit of talking too much when I become inebriated. OMG, way toooooo much. It is forgiven and I will behave for a long time.

Sunday, off to JFK and flight home. Spent the night with my family in Utah and then drove the 4 hours to WY. Came home to beautiful weather and lots of work yet to do, but above all else I am a blest man to have experienced and to continue to live the adventure I find irresistible and so delicious. Life is good. New Zealand is on the horizon.