So many beautifully breath-taking moments: Schubert's Death and the Maiden arranged for chamber orchestra by Mahler (how can one not be moved by that second movement, brooding at times, hopeful at others, marching onwards despite its pain?), Hayden's cello concerto played with flawless grace and conversationalism, and a quirky set of "Happy Birthday" arrangements in honor of the occassion. It was love in so many forms.
I was first introduced to Bashmet through a fellow violist via this slightly entertaining video, which, even it its brevity, shows a bit of his personality. It was absolutely wonderful to see him perform live.
As for an update on my handicap: I can now type two-handed for short amounts of time, cut food using a fork and knife simultaneously, and drive with both hands on the steering wheel. Life is looking up!
And in a totally unrelated vein, an interesting article on conversations and technology:
We expect more from technology and less from one another and seem increasingly drawn to technologies that provide the illusion of companionship without the demands of relationship. Always-on/always-on-you devices provide three powerful fantasies: that we will always be heard; that we can put our attention wherever we want it to be; and that we never have to be alone.