An Evening in the Presence of Greatness

A little 'side event' with the MS Society turned out to be a bit of a hidden gem. The charity had the opportunity to host a unique 'up close and personal' recital with world class mezzo soprano Joyce DiDonato at the home of one of their major supporters. Having never actually been to an opera (shocking confession, but since resolved!) I felt honoured to be in the presence of this wonderfully warm artist. With a small invited audience of MS Society supporters and opera enthusiasts, the atmosphere was truly magical. Joyce was accompanied by Craig Terry on piano who took us on a magical journey through Spain with 'De Espana Vengo' through to the truly moving 'Laschia ch'lo Pianga' by Handel which had me in tears. Joyce was incredibly warm and chatted very informally between pieces, making the very emotive connection of the therapeutic power of music. And the music might have been over, but the evening wasn't  - if you've ever hosted a dinner party for more than 20 people you will appreciate the logistics involved in turning a room of 100 theatre style into an intimate dining area within 10 minutes!