We are fortunate to live in a town that offers a variety of experiences, especially musical ones, especially from our colleges. Over the weekend I attended the Monster Concert, a piano recital. Actually it was four pianos, and 16 hands…which means two musicians at each of the four grand pianos (one song used eight pianos and 16 hands) all playing classical music and modern pieces together – wonderfully. That’s eighty fingers flying across the keys!
The pianists were mostly St. Olaf faculty and students, dressed in costume, and performing as a large piano ensemble. The concert was geared to all ages and the young children were encouraged to dressed in costumes.
It took place in Urness Recital Hall at St. Olaf College. It’s a beautiful, intimate space, which – for me – always adds another special dimension to performances there.
St. Olaf College (looking towards balcony)
I was all ready to take photos but at the beginning of the concert they asked the audience not to photograph. It was a fun and festive hour-long concert that was professional and inspiring.
What a great idea!
Yes, I think so too. Very impressive to have them all in sync.
I need to pay attention to happenings at St. Olaf and Carleton. I’m sure there are lots of events I would enjoy. But the thing is remembering to check the websites…
What a fun concert theme. Like you, I would have been disappointed by the no photos rule.
I know it’s difficult to keep track of all that’s going on. I get emails from St. Olaf but have to look for Carleton events. I’m sure one could be busy every night of the week with some sort of event at the colleges!
Northfield…so many things for a small town! That Monster Concert would have been quite amazing to have experienced, I am sure. Northfield has been listed as a great place to retire and I agree… If it weren’t in Minnesota… Years ago Marty was describing the the kind of place in which he’d like to retire. And I looked at him in amazement and reflected that he had just described Northfield!!! Deep sigh! We had 30+ great years there. But Sebastian and Vero Beach, FL do offer fun small-town events on a regular basis. For example, the frog leg festival..yum! And quite a few antique stores.( you’ll have to come see them). No colleges, however, but a local Vero Beach Theatre Guild and a Riverside Theatre which draws big names… and more:)
Ya, I get your point that NorthField is in Minnesota and has long winters…the downside of the wonderful town (as we get older.)
Hi Valerie,
That would have been an amazing concert! I love to hear pianos and have enjoyed many warring pianos over the years!
Cindy
It was a great concert. I think piano players have an even more appreciation for the multiple hands.