Pete Douglas' Response to Tribute 2008
Bach Fans,
I wish to again thank Margie Baker, Linda Goetz and others for all their efforts putting on the February 16th, '08 tribute to 50 years of music at the Douglas Beach House. It felt good that so many people in attendance had such fond memories through the years at the Bach Society performances. I tried to acknowledge this honor that night, but I was somewhat unable to express clearly my personal reasons for presenting music over all these years. May this be an attempt to say what I feel about my music adventure and to thank you for your appreciation.
As a non-musician I became fascinated by those who could express emotions through music-making. Though the social life around music was enjoyable, I nevertheless became committed to finding and hearing the many ways people of all subcultures could express their humanity. I was on a music adventure. I’d hoped through my efforts that some audiences would realize that music was more than just trendy entertainment -- that it is essential to our emotional life. At least it was to mine. Caring for the musicians and supporting their efforts is what has made our performances so special.
However, for me, there is a never ending frustration in getting out an audience, an audience to attend music other than what they are familiar with -- that some would recognize the mission I was on, namely, presenting the many forms of musical expression. Some of our finest concerts were least attended, while those high-profile artists often provided only a routine, pedestrian performance.
It has been my work as a presenter to seek and book the best Bay Area and National talent available at expressing their musical language. I became an educator with the desire to promote all the musical possibilities my experience and budget would allow. My greatest reward, besides the Music experience, has been the many unsolicited compliments from musicians after performing the Bach -- that is what audiences sense from happy turned on performers.
To those who have previously attended programs through the years, we are not just another music venue from your past. We’re still presenting many styles of music of substance, including the greatest young players emerging on the scene today in Jazz, Classical and World Music.
The best way to honor me for my efforts is to be in attendance, to continue, no matter what stage of life you’re in, to discover the joy of live music. My greatest enjoyment comes when the music, musicians and audience merge together in a communal high.
Yours, Prentice (Pete) Douglas, March 2008
© 2001-2012 Bach Dancing & Dynamite Society
