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