I can’t believe I’ve already played four weddings (well, technically three and a reception) this weekend.  I was totally exhausted last night–our first wedding was pretty tough. It was a difficult situation with the organist/music director at the church, where it seemed that he was very bitter that we were there at all. It was unfortunate for him, I think, because I think a surprise collaboration can be a wonderful thing, but not everyone is as open minded as I am (or eager to meet new people).

The second wedding was fun, except (as is all too common) they wanted to set us up in the sun. It seems no matter how many times you go over these things with people, they still can’t believe you won’t actually go against your contract and play in direct sunlight (it was 90 degrees without the sun). Even a bit of sun can really put the instruments out of whack (which we had already), and if we don’t get shade, basically the polish would buckle, the instrument would melt at the seams (glue), not to mention likely broken strings, etc. The people gave us a little attitude, and then complained that we were too far away (not loud enough) after they refused to let us set up where we suggested (much closer and more shaded). Any potential clients reading this: we are experienced at this and usually can figure out a good place to be that will meet our requirements, unless there are no trees at all, in which case, we do need a tent of sorts. It’s not a question of us personally not wanting to play in the sun, it’s that our instruments would be destroyed in potentially a very short period of time.

The last gig was a reception–it was great fun! We played for about 2 1/2 hours and I got to do some new arrangements of pieces that I hadn’t played before. The company was great, and the client were just wonderful.

After my wedding this afternoon, I get to go relax at Maya Cafe. Chris is playing Death and the Maiden with some of his colleagues, and then some of our friends/colleagues are playing Tangos and other Latin Music there. It should be a fun evening! My friend Lisa Chong is organizing “Maya Cafe Sundays” and the restaurant has a special menu for the evening (opens at 6:30 pm, music starts at 8 pm, no cover).