Hi All,

As usual, I've been out to see a few shows.  In date order . . .

I saw Vince Gill's acoustic show at the Birchmere. What fun! Vince had a cold but his voice still sounded terrific. The show was loose with no set list.  The audience called out songs, and he played them.  He was accompanied by a keyboardist, bassist and drummer on a cajon.  All the hits, beautifully done. I'm such a fan.

Saw Chanticleer, the world renowned male chorus. http://www.chanticleer.org  It was a holiday show. These guys are masterful. I've seen them before and I'm never disappointed. They covered classical and popular songs and their arrangements were just delightful. 

Went to the Washington Women's Chorus holiday show.  http://www.washingtonwomenschorus.org/  It was beautiful. There are 35 singers in the chorus, which proudly tackles more complicated choral arrangements.  They performed with the Stone Ridge School's handbell choir and chorus.  The whole thing was just great, I thoroughly enjoyed the show.

Saw the Bela Fleck and the Flecktones last week, again at the Birchmere.  They were supporting their holiday album.  Imagine the Flecktone twist on Christmas songs. The show was excellent and I bought the album.  It's wacky and wonderful, and nominated for two grammy awards.  (Imagine tuvan throat singing on Jingle Bells.) You really should check this album out for some delightful and tasty treats  before the holidays are done.  I had the pleasure of talking with Victor Wooten after the show.  I went to two of Victor's Bass/Nature camps, which were really important to the bass player that I am.  Victor always remembers me, which is so nice. 

My advice - Get Out And Hear Some Live Music, and try some new flavors.  Great stuff is out there waiting for you.