Happy Birthday Tuning the Air

December 12, 2011

Happy Birthday Tuning the Air

Seven years ago today, up on the third floor of Trinity United Methodist Church in Ballard, a weekend workshop was wrapping up. The finale was a feast for about 25 people. Jaxie, Bob, Travis, Taylor and I were among those taking part, and from time to time the workshop director would call upon us to play some music. We would get our guitars, go out in the hallway to strategize what our set would be - 2 or 3 pieces. We entered, took our place up near the head of the table, and performed.

The third and final time we were called upon, we chose for our final selection “Eye of the Needle”, which is also known as “Guitar Craft Theme III”, and is within the repertoire of anyone who has been involved with Guitar Craft for a period of time. We entered, and performed our first selection. When it came time for “Eye of the Needle”, we spread out and surrounded the audience – to the extent that 5 players can “surround” a banquet table set up for 25 diners. The effect was immediate and profound. Of course, the composition has that quality and effect for anyone who can enter in to it, but there was something in this presentation that seemed to bring the music to life in a very particular way. Collecting ourselves outside of the room after the performance, we had the clear sense that something momentous had just occurred.

At the table, and so in the audience that night were, among others: Frank Sheldon, Jan Jarvis, Hugh Elliot, George Bennett and Michael Fredrick.

This Thursday night, what was set in motion that night reaches its completion.