Baltimore diary

I'm back in Tucson now after a fun and successful trip to Baltimore. Actually, the previous post was a little misleading because I didn't really go home on the 11th as planned. A combination of delays and bad weather at Chicago Midway forced me to rebook my flight for the following day. Well, I wasn't forced, but there was a chance that they wouldn't hold my connecting flight in Chicago and the last thing I wanted was to be stranded in the Chicago airport for a sleepless night. Besides, I wasn't really ready to leave Baltimore anyway.

My set at the Red Room on Saturday night was one of the best live performance experiences I've had in recent memory. My being there was a little bit of a stretch for the folks who book the talent simply because I was playing composed music--despite how experimental it might be. But they take chances at the Red Room and I'm glad that gave me the opportunity. I was humbled by the crowd--which included a surprise appearance by a couple of great friends--that absolutely filled the room. This was not a normal crowd though. Everyone was completely engaged with the music. I was an incredible experience and one that I wish I could have everytime I perform. A room full of individuals interested in experimental music and improvisation makes for a very embracing and warm atmosphere. John Berndt and the rest of the crew there have done an amazing job of developing a loyal and appreciative following for the venue. They deserve an immense amount of credit for cultivating an audience for music on the edge.

There is something to be said for the intimacy of venues like the Red Room. Performer and audience are on the same level--literally, as there is no stage figuratively elevating the performer. Those who come to shows places like that are usually very engaged in the moment of music making. Being up close and almost "wrapped up" in an audience like that transmits a certain energy. The audience wants to concentrate intensely, which in turn augments the performer's mental state and communicative abilities. At the Red Room, some were swaying to music that didn't have a pulse while one was moved to do yoga poses during Michael Pisaro's trance-inducing, mediatative here (2/2). The experience was truly cool.

The rest of my time in Baltimore was as anticipated--very fun. I was able spend time eating at some of my favorite old spots like the ever hip City Cafe. I also got some very good uninterrupted practicing in and was able to reconnect with a very special girl. Ah, Baltimore.