The musicians got this idea to call our supporters and say Thank You for helping us keep the music going. More than half the orchestra volunteered to go to the office and make calls for two hours. Over three nights we communicated with our audience and donors in a new way, person to person. We're used to the give and take of music: we play, they listen and applaud. Now we can make personal contact over the phone and let them know how much we appreciate them, and how important their involvement is.

We found that our donors REALLY appreciated the call. It was fun talking to some folks I already knew, and great to meet some new friends over the phone. We answered questions, gathered a few requests, and even had a few folks so enthused by our personal efforts that they wanted to do more for our orchestra!

Some of our newest musicians and some old hands like me were at the phones. My stand partner, Principal Bassist Lenny Finkelshteyn, noticed a Russian name on his list, I suggested he call that name first. Soon there was a long enthusiastic conversation in Russian going on in the next cubicle. I couldn't understand a word, but the tenor of the conversation conveyed the good time they had talking together.

I managed to call about 50 people in the two nights I had available, and it was great fun. More than half were home, and I left a message for the others. I hope to meet some of my new acquaintances at upcoming concerts, and put faces to the names. I also got two invitations: one for lunch and one to stay at Atlantic Beach. Wow! Unintended consequences can be good!

We should note that the staff did a fine job of coordinating our efforts, getting the information we needed, and getting some sustenance from Irregardless Cafe Restaurant. Delicious!

But back to the real reason for all this: Thank You! to those who support our orchestra and keep us playing the greatest music ever written.