I have seen Dave in concert three times; once in Lincoln NE around 1964, once in Athens GA, and most recently in Chicago IL. I had never heard of Dave Brubeck before seeing him in 1964 but I was immediately sold on his brand of jazz. The last two times I heard him I was totally amazed that he was still playing so brilliantly in spite of his age and reaching out to his audience. Earlier this year it was a joy to watch him receive the Kennedy Center Honors, a well deserved recognition of his lasting contribution to music.
During the in-between years, when I never had the opportunity to see Dave, I bought many, many LP records and CD's recorded by him and the Dave Brubeck Quartet. I still have most of them, however I actually wore out a couple of the LP's over the years.
I doubt that I will ever have the chance to hear Dave Brubeck in concert again. I keep checking his website for new dates but, understandably, they are far and few between.
So, after reflecting on how much enjoyment I gained from him I thought it would be nice to let him know in writing. My letter genuinely started as merely as a thank-you note, but near the end I just couldn't resist asking him for a photograph. I didn't know if I would ever get a photo, but it really wasn't important. The important thing was to thank him. Of course, just to make sure he really got the letter I took the time to find his actual mailing address and not just his published P.O. Box.
Was I surprised today when a signed photo and one-line note came in the mail. I felt like a kid! And yes, I am going to frame it and hang in on the wall.
Thanks, Dave. May you live many more years, make music for as long as you live, and bring continued enjoyment to your fans.
2 comments:
COOOOOOL! That is so great. Just warms my heart!
This is outstanding Newt! Way to go. I think it's a great sign that you haven't lost the adoration of someone who pours their heart into their art.
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