Musically, it was probably the worst concert I’ve ever heard; Emotionally, it was among the best.
While exploring the Arts in the Park booths at yesterday’s annual event, with their usual offerings of handmade products, pictures, pottery and paraphernalia, I stumbled across a free concert in a packed adjacent pavilion. Two young men, amped and wired and staged for rock 'n roll, had a half hour scheduled, the little marquee said.. The duo was known only by a family name, and the crowd seemed held in rapt attention. I joined them.
Just guessing here, but it seemed to be a young man and his dear special needs brother, singing the songs we all know, heavy on the Beatles, Johnny Cash and similar, and they were belting them out with enthusiasm and courage. The audience loved it. The sounds were. . .unusual. Occasional brilliant keyboarding was contrasted with exuberant renditions of the popular tunes.
Johnny Cash may not have delivered “Ring of Fire” exactly that way, but undoubtedly he’d approve its unique interpretation. And the Beatles would have enjoyed "Hey Jude!,” starting out gently, softly, then a crescendo into a screaming Judiee! Judiee! Judiee. The one of a kind jubilant performance closed with an a cappella version of “It’s a Wonderful World.” Satchmo was never more earnest or sincere.
Program finished, the spirited audience rose as one, thrilled, teary and excited, giving a rousing, standing ovation as the duo acknowledged the robust acclamation. The pavilion brimmed with mutual love and support.
A latecomer, I really don’t know exactly what happened here yesterday, but this is what I saw.
And then I said to myself, "what a Wonderful World."
