James’ Brand New Blog is preparing for an early summer hiatus. Before going, though, how about those 4.4 million trees in London. See colleague Patrick Maloney’s story in Friday’s Free Press about our trees. Years ago, I wondered if it could be a school math project for all the kids to count all the trees. (Hey that would still work as an epic double-check). When Pat asked me this week, I guessed several hundred thousand . . . wow. Glad I was wrong — 4.4. million trees, I love you. Keep us being The Forest City & may your numbers multiply unto glory etc.
With the hiatus looming, I want to add some praise for a number (a somewhat smaller number) of fine musicians who have kept the human creativity & beauty flowing under all those trees recently.
At Timothy Vernon’s farewell at Oscar Taylors, Rachel Wood, Ian Franklin, Spencer Phillips & others saluted the maestro with selections he loved.
A classy jazz trio of Chris Robinson, sax; Charles Rallo, piano; and Peter Hysen, bass was also on hand . . . can still hear the way they soared with Bird of Paradise.
Toronto’s George Sawa played the qanun (a traditional Egyptian instrument, something like a huge autoharp) at the Middle Eastern Tea at the Eldon House interpretive centre . . . with welcoming banners from the region that the Harris family had brought to London from their travels. A remarkable experience. George studied with John Beckwith at the University of Toronto & we talked about John as a teacher & mentor.
Sunfest, take note. George Sawa would be amazing to hear under those trees (how many are there?) in Victoria Park.