There is nothing better for the Starving Artist than a free meal. But when a free meal can be combined with outstanding music? Jackpot. I’ve told you before that I am an incredibly lucky bastard. I have a dear friend and mentor who lives in Santa Monica, Dr. Byron Adams, who is a well known musicologist and composer. As a musicologist he often writes program notes and gives preconcert talks for various concert series in the area. One of his regular gigs is for the DaCamera Society, which is group that puts on concerts in historic locations. Being the scholar in residence, Byron gets free tickets and often takes me as his plus one. I told you i was lucky.
The series we attend is at the Doheny Mansion, a gorgeous estate owned and inhabited by the oil tycoon Edward Doheny beginning in 1901. It is now part of the campus of Mount Saint Mary’s College. This is unlike any concert experience I’ve ever had. The musicians are placed in the center of the Pompeii room, pictured here in the blog. The audience is seated in a circle around the players, like a music salon in the days of old. At most of the concerts you can literally reach out and touch the musicians during the performance. And we are talking world class performers. It is such a treat. of course the majority of the clientele is over 50, so it is not exactly the place to flirt as a single young man… then again maybe it is. I kid. Though I must say many of the regulars are friendly and quite fun.
Last night we heard pieces by Debussy, Ravel, and Fauré. Outstanding music. But of course, the starving artist needs to be fed. Not to worry, all of these concerts are professionally catered and involve a meal themed around the concert. Last night I was expecting a French theme, but for some reason it was middle eastern. Pita bread, hummus, quinoa salad, juicy chicken, a beautiful crudités spread, and baklava. What is not to like? And I tell you have enjoyed many a fine meal here – German, Asian, Russian. If ever I’m in a period of despair or stress over my life and/or career, it’s nights like these that allow me to sit back, relax, and count my blessings.
