Showtunes Saturday

Don't you just love it when two worlds collide?

You know my love of all things musical theater. Well, let me set the stage (get it---a little theater joke!).

About two years ago, I asked, urged---who am I kidding---begged, Connie to give duplicate bridge a try. She kicked and screamed like a little baby---losing sleep, saying she was way too intimidated, it was too hard, she didn't know the rules, etc. I hit her with, "But you have such good card sense" (she does)! "Okay, if you just try it and don't like it, I promise I'll never bring it up again!" I'm not sure she really believed me, but she agreed and then added this caveat: "If anyone calls the director on me, I quit!" I couldn't convince her that calling the director is not the embarrassing thing she thinks it is. We all make mistakes and sometimes they are real bloopers (like doubling your parther---okay that was about 20 years ago, but I did it!) The director is there to be the referee--so to speak. Little did she know, I had the man for her!

Richland was starting a new duplicate group. Jerry was to be the director. I have crossed paths with him on several occasions here and there. He is the nicest! He has so much patience. Granted, there are many directors that can be a little terse now and then, but not Jerry. He's laid back. He doesn't rush the game and he's just plain the nicest guy! I knew he and Connie would be a perfect fit. 

So here we are two years later, enjoying our once a month bridge day. Two months ago, Jerry surprised us all by giving us a little pre-bridge concert. Now, I was not new to his beautiful piano playing as I'd heard him play at other bridge games. But what I really appreciate the most is that he has gone out of his way (well, I guess not too far) to play showtunes. I like to think he plays them just for me, but that would be a little egotistical. However, I doubt anyone there loves them as much as I do! 

This past Tuesday, after listening a bit, he started playing Music of the Night---in the daytime. I got up to get my phone so I could record it to send to the girls---they all love musical theater too! I just couldn't leave the room! His playing was so beautiful. I told him afterwards that I had wanted to tape him, but just couldn't leave to retrieve my phone. So, he sent me this recording. Enjoy!
Music of the Night

 I snapped these photos the first time he played. He plays so effortlessly.

I forgot to mention, he's self-taught! One question---where is the tip jar?

I can't think of anything better---showtunes and bridge. Now that's a winning hand!