A Full-Circle Musical Moment
From Awe to Encore: A Full-Circle Musical Moment
Last weekend we played at a 70th birthday party for a wonderful gentleman named Tony at The Manna House in Warrington. It was a warm celebration. Guests enjoyed a hog roast, a show-stopping Rod Stewart tribute act called Rock Stewart, and a stunning birthday cake. Several players from the Hallé Orchestra and the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra were there too.
Among the highlights was Tony’s music selection. He chose mostly classical favourites—think Vivaldi and Bach—but he also asked for some Bond themes. We closed with “Ashokan Farewell,” which moved him to tears. It was touching to see how deeply he connected with that final piece.
It’s always an honour to add live music to a special event. But this party held extra meaning. I recognised three fellow musicians from my childhood among the thirty or so guests. Two of them I hadn’t seen in over 35 years. One had once played the Mendelssohn Violin Concerto when I was ten.
To stand there, violin in hand, playing for them felt surreal. I had gone from being a young admirer at the back of a concert hall to the one leading the music. He didn’t recognise me, and that’s okay. Life rarely gives us perfect reunions. But it does give us perspective. And a deep sense of achievement.
Tony’s genuine appreciation made the evening unforgettable. He applauded every piece and thanked us warmly. Before I left, I even gave him a goose egg as a playful surprise gift. It seemed fitting for a day full of light-hearted moments.
If you’re planning a celebration and want to add something special, we’d love to help. We bring a wide range of music, a touch of elegance, and the occasional surprise gift (though I can’t promise a goose egg every time!)
-
The Manna House venue: https://themannahouse.co.uk
-
Hallé Orchestra: https://www.halle.co.uk
- “Ashokan Farewell” on Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ashokan_Farewell
#stringquartet #warringtonevents #livemusicuk #birthdaypartyideas #70thbirthday #classicalmusicians #evententertainment #violinist #cheshireevents #musicianslife
