Tributes to Pete and the BACH
Sent in response to email request Feb. 2008

We want to express our huge thanks to you and Pete for running the best concert venue we know of! The Bach Dancing and Dynamite Society is truly the under-appreciated gem of the Bay Area live music community. That the Bach Society has hosted a “Who’s-Who” of music performers for the past half century is proof of its legacy of greatness. We were honored and humbled by Pete and Linda’s invitation to perform in their friendly environment, and it has been one of the biggest boosts to our career so far. Do yourself and friends a favor – visit, support this intimate listening – and sometimes dancing - environment on the oceanfront that features the very finest of live music, gorgeous sunsets, and delicious catered food, in one of the few remaining independent live venues. Times 4 wishes the Bach Society a heartfelt Happy Anniversary. -- Greg Sankovich, Lincoln Adler, Maurice Miles, Kevin Lofton, Times 4

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I'm studying Jazz singing and was fortunate to be able to attend one of my teachers, Madeleine Eastman's cd preparation concerts in 2007 at The Bach Jazz and Dynamite Society. It wasn't my first time there but it was probably the most instructive. Getting to see her play with different ways to perform the same song provided insight. I feel very grateful for the experience. --Best regards, Debra Mugnani Monroe

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My Bach moment was the first time I heard great jazz music coming from somwhere above. I followed the sweet sounds til I came upon the source. I walked slowly up the stairs -- what was this place? A bar? A home? A private party rental? Of course, I found out what is was - all of the above-- and from then on I have thoroughly enjoyed the music and musicians and sharing great times at this wonderful place with a wild name. There is no other venue like it on the planet and I thank Pete for all that he has done, is doing and will do for Jazz! "If it ain't got that swing, it don't mean a thing" .. well, Pete and his place have got it in spades times a 1000! -- Gail Bower. Cupertino, CA

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My first experience with Pete and his magical "Beach House" happened in 1977 when I attended a friend's wedding there. His warm crusty personality, the spectacular sounds, tasty food, endearing environment and breathtaking location have kept me coming back ever since. May Pete and "The House" endure forever! -- T.C. Jefferson

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Pete, We greatly appreciate your place and the great Jazz you bring to us there. From the first time I attended an event there I felt as welcome as if I was a guest invited into you home. You bring back the old days at the Blackhawk (SF) and the Jazz Workshop, only your venue is better. -- Ken Parker

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Our special moment(s) was hearing Pancho Sanchez jam about 15 y ago and dancing our hearts out. We loved the place so much, we convinced Pete to rent it out to us so we could get married there. Both my wife and I are musicians and we jammed at our own wedding. What PAnete has done is very special. -- Dean Schillinger MD, UCSF Associate Professor of Clinical Medicine

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I sometimes think of the Bach D&D as a west coast Village Vanguard. Both are revered by the musicians who play there as well as the people who come to listen. Both are run by dedicated, charismatic, deed I say, unique and lovable dedicated characters - Lorraine Gordon at the Vanguard and Pete at Bach. Memorable moments for me include the celebration of Don Haas's life, the Margie Baker recording session, Brad Meldhau solo piano, Larry Vuckovich, one of the last performances of the Ray Brown Trio, the great recording session with Madeline Eastman this past year ... and on and on. What could be better than a sunny Sunday afternoon, a bottle of good wine, and great music? And, nobody — NOBODY — does it like Pete. We have out tickets; see you at the tribute. Thanks for the opportunity, -- Don Creswell. Vice President Sales and Marketing. SmartOrg Inc.

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I am a long time admirer of Pete Douglas for the patient persistence and perseverance he continues to show for his love of live music performance.....the range of his choices has my admiration, too --it can be a small trio of both/either classical and/or modern jazz, or a large group of talented musicians such as a 19 piece orchestra. He even is a supporter of live improv humor. This man is a true renaissance human being in every meaning of that honour. He is in my book a national treasure of the quality and character comparable to the honour that The Japanese people bestow on their exceptional persons while they are still alive to enjoy their just reward. Tears come readily to my eyes from the joy I am experiencing given this opportunity to salute this wonderful humble man while he is still around to kick ''ass''. Can it be fair if I select a special performer from the ENORMOUS and HUGE list of illustrious concerts ? I recently was at a jazz concert this year 2008 and enquired from Pete when might I have the pleasure of hearing HIROMI again ? With out batting an eye he reached across the front desk and gave me a CD of a recording of an earlier concert made at The BDDSOC that was on display. No mention of money, just an acknowledgement of his support for his visitor wanting to hear again a new young talent. I just LUV this man! – John D Stephens

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I can't think of another promoter anywhere who has never given me the time of day and who still has my absolutely undiluted respect and admiration. Every show I've seen at BD&DS has been not merely excellent from the artistry of the performers to the transparency of the production, but a positive pleasure to attend, with all the intimacy and conviviality of a cherished friend's warm living room. But I still wouldn't mind playing there. Best wishes, -- Joshua Raoul Brody, San Francisco

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I was one of the lucky ones who by chance was down at the beach during the week one time. the lady that I was with noticed Pete's house and said now that is more than just living quarters. As Lynne and I walk around Pete came out doing something, maintenance or what. We struck up a conversation and 4 hrs. later after wine and such we felt that this ( house ) was part of our relationship. Pete is just a class act. I could sit with him anytime and tell sea stories for hrs. O' by the way Lynne and I are hook at the hip still and will be always. Good times, good music, good food along with a good friend. Thank you Pete for making our lives more enjoyable. -- Stephen Kling

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THE BACH IS AN IMPORTANT PART OF MY LIFE (THE CLOSEST I EVER GET TO A CHURCH EXPERIENCE), AS IS JAZZ, WHICH I HAVE LOVED FOR OVER TO 50 YEARS. – Bob McDonald

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When I am at The Bach I just feel "right". There is a vibe, an energy that is happening there. Whether it is Pete, the music or the setting; they all seem to just come together and make for a great feeling. Thanks Pete, you have influenced me in more ways that you can imagine. – Dave Karlin

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HI: There really aren't appropriate words to describe the pleasure that we've received over the years at the Bach. We've tried to explain the experience to our friends, but still haven't come up with the right way of describing the physical and emotional thrill of being there....anyway, please keep it up!! -- Evelyn and Gil Deane

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I would like to pass on a few words about Pete from a couple of newcomers. My wife and I have lived on the coast for a little over seven years, and it was only very recently that we came to a show (Steve Smith on 11/11/07). Besides thoroughly enjoying a wonderful concert, we also got the chance to chat a little bit with Pete. Pete instantly made us feel at home - as if we were old friends that had been coming to concerts there for years. One of the best parts of the evening for us was when Pete came up to the balcony where we were sitting to watch a bit of the show. Watching him, it was obvious that he is still a huge FAN of the music, cheering on the band, and really getting into it. That type of enthusiasm is truly contagious. What a fantastic, intimate venue for live music! Congratulations Pete, on 50 years of bringing great memories and music to the coast! --Bob & Sharon Koehler, Pacifica

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I love the Bach!!! I know the jazz world and what Pete has created at the beach is unique
in the world. The Bach is my favorite jazz venue on the planet! Best wishes, -- Katie

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I just love it! Thank-you so much. Toni

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Well, how is it possible that every time I went to the Bach on a Sunday afternoon it was the best. It was... 3 times that stand out for me . First- Bringing my then teenage son, during a difficult time in our relationship, to see Richie Cole. My son was playing alto sax in the jazz band at his highschool. We were so happy together that day. My son is 39 now, he and I are very close. He travels a lot, mostly in Latin America. He takes that little old alto sax that he played in highschool with him all the time and plays music with friends from all over the world. Second Much later, seeing Toots Theilman and Kenny Werner with some friends. During the set Toots started crying as he played, I started crying, and when I looked around my friends and the rest of the audience were all crying. That was a moment. Third--the last time I was there, sometime in 2007. There was some run of fish--maybe anchovies or grunyon, and I sat in the glassed in area, just outside the auditorium and listened to the music and watched the birds going absolutely wild. Couldn't have been better. Thanks, Pete. ---Judith Bell

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When my late husband and I first came to California in 1972, acquaintances in Silicon Valley introduced us to the Pete Douglas Beach House. I am a jazz fanatic -- I'm looking at a framed poster of Art Kane's Jazz Portrait Harlem 1958 as I type this e-mail -- and I am so happy that I heard Carmen McRae, McCoy Tyner, Lionel Hampton, and so many others at the Beach House. I live in Marin now and don't get to Half Moon Bay very often, but maybe in 2008 my new husband and I will be able to visit a few times........Thank you so much, Pete, for your generosity. -- Linda Jay Geldens, Copyeditor/Copywriter

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Thank you for the opportunity to contribute to Pete's tribute. I am so disappointed that I will not be able to attend the event, because I would like to be there personally to thank Pete for his great contribution to the quality of my life in the Bay Area! So here is my tribute: You have spoiled me, Pete, by offering the absolutely best jazz in the Bay Area, in the most beautiful ocean setting and comfortable, cozy atmosphere. Where else can one indulge in such pleasures than at the Bach. Thank you, thank you! And thank you, Linda, for offering this tribute to Pete...Besos, -- Connie Bernnstein

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Thanks for the opportunity Linda.
We live in one of the most interesting places in the world where they speak english & you can drink the water. In San Francisco, we get to see best players in the world in one of the most beautiful places in the world. I have been drumming since I was 12 years old & have been to more shows that most people have read about. Pete's house provides an incomparable venue that combines both the sea & world class music. I cannot thank him enough for all of the 'jaw-dropping sets' I have experienced at the beach house. A couple of sets that come to mind are Pete Escovedo's smokin' hot jazz band last year & all of Steve Smith's performances drumming with Vital Information. Thanks Pete, -- Bob Mateus, Director - Product Management, Mobile BU - MNO Division

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Dear Pete,
When we can, we come for the marvelous Jazz events and always enjoy them at your beach cottage. Often we sit in back of you on the far left, front, where we can see you enjoying vigorously the show and swigging beer usually as well as hear the pianist and other instrumentalists. We've loved Lynne Arialle and her trio; Babatunde Lea when Hilton Ruiz was alive and many others. Keep them coming!!! -- Len and Lee Herzenberg from Stanford.

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We have traveled from Illinois to the Bach several times, and each evening has been remarkable. Thank you to Pete for creating an amazing haven for jazz and an exciting convivial atmosphere for meeting people, sharing a love of music, and celebrating life at the edge of the continent. The list of artists Pete has gathered at the Douglas Beach House is unrivaled anywhere. Bravo! -- Frank and Candi, Lhotka Odell, IL

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First, let me comment that I have never felt "taken" when attending "The Bach." The BYOB policy, even the BYOFood policy, is unheard of in the commercial world of music. Then, there's the atmosphere of being on the Pacific for sunset and for those generous and welcome hour breaks between sets... Then there's the intimacy; the vintage Steinway Grand, funky decor,.. I could go on and on.

As for favourite moments.. there are so many: Kenny Barron and Bobby Hutcherson trading riffs with complete improv abandon; three performances by my favourite string quartet, the St. Lawrence [and entertaining friends in the Beach Cottage when Laurie and I co-sponsored]; and [now for something completely different] great stand-up comedians sending me and guests into catatonic laughter at the SF Stand-up Comedy Competitions.

Thank you, Pete, for giving your all these past 40 years to bringing so much enrichment to me and friends with many of the transcendental musical experiences of my life. Yours in the music, -- Van Whitis

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I helped carry the piano up the stairs- yes that very same grand piano and resides on the bandstand. Besides spending many magical Sundays there I also spent a magical Saturday night when Nancy and I were married almost 25 years ago. -- Irwin Cohen
Irwin Cohen

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Our contribution:
I first met Pete and attended a few Bach concerts in the late 70s. The total experience that included world class jazz in the beach house's unique venue will never be forgotten. From Richie Cole's Alto Madness to a precision Japanese Big Band the jazz experience was uplifting to the point of almost being spiritual! Pete's presence and good words made the concerts complete. Every time we go over to the Bach we're not sure what exactly we're going to experience but we are sure that it will unique and memorable! Thanks, Pete for all the years of fantastic jazz and wonderful Sunday afternoons. -- Bob Rodert & Bev Kiltz

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We stumbled upon the Bach around 1974 while meandering along the coast. It was not a live music day, but Pete greeted us warmly and proceeded to regale us with stories of shows that had already occurred there. We sat in what was his living room surrounded by so many reel-to-reel tapes of shows it boggled the mind -- and that was only 1974! The 4 of us must have been there a couple hours, but we never felt Pete pushing us out the door; I remember he served us tea -- no intoxicants. Then living in the East Bay, we had a relatively short drive, and thereafter I went to many many shows, from Toshiko on solo piano to guys we never heard of (many from Pete's original LA base), to some classical shows with dinner on Friday eves. I brought any number of people there to introduce them to the scene (go reserve your seat when the doors open) and listen to the great jazz. Kept running into people I'd met there. Hang on the deck, eat and drink, then you get to listen. And practically sit on stage! I loved to watch the pianists from the little balcony. And many fond memories of Pete at audience front left, recording (and smoking). Having moved to the Fort Bragg area, the drive now restricts my visits, but I'll be back. CONGRATULATIONS AND MANY MANY THANKS TO PETE! -- James C. Rainie, Fort Bragg, CA

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Pete Douglas in a beret, black turtle neck, T-shirt and black pants stands beside the Steinway concert grand piano and announces the lineup for today’s Sunday afternoon classical piano performance at the Bach Dancing and Dynamite Society.
The piano is scared and nicked, and covered with cigarette burns and white circles left by damp glasses placed on its once-glossy surface over the past five decades. Pete himself is weathered and battered, but both he and the piano are tuned to produce world-class music this Sunday afternoon while the ocean rumbles outside and the setting sun begins to paint the scene pink.

Pete flashes a gap-toothed smile, and catches my eye momentarily. I smile and close my eyes because it is as if we both remember the old days, when smoke from hand-rolled cigarettes permeated the air and the audience shuffled to seats on the stairway, on folding chairs, and on barstools as they readied themselves for the music. Back then I think Pete would have scoffed at the notion that he would one day stand in front of audiences, mostly sober, and introduce world-class musicians in a smoke-free environment.

I rather miss the old sights and sounds and aromas, but it is time to tinkle the ivories, limber up the vocal cords, or pipe a tune, here where the pounding of ocean waves vibrates the floors of the beach house, the view stretches 180 degrees, and memories run rampant. Anonymous Lady, 2007

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The Bach was, for me, the scene of one of the most mystical musical moments I have ever experienced.

Hampton Hawes was there, playing one of his last gigs before his untimely death. My old and dear friend Don Asher, who helped Hamp write his autobiography "Raise Up Off Me," came with Hamp and sat behind him as he played his first set. It was brilliant and beautiful--being incarcerated so cruelly had not diminished the man's giant talent. I was sitting far away, in the tiny 'back bar' area near the deck--it was as close as I could get. Hamp's music touched my soul. I could not take my eyes off him. I was transfixed.
As the set ended, Hamp sat at the piano, head down, eyes closed, seemingly drained by the effort of playing a long and complex series of pieces, drinking in the tumultuous applause. The crowed finally quieted and the audience stood, took off sweaters, greeted friends, started to socialize.

Hamp stood and looked across the room, directly at me. Then, with Don Asher in tow, he made his way through the crowd purposefully and came straight to me. He put his hands on my upper arms and smiled in candid joy. Then he said it: "Hey, man, you really got it."

Don, right behind him, was confused. He stepped up beside Hamp and spoke to me: "John, I had no idea that you were acquainted with Hamp."

I replied: "I have never been in his presence before, in my entire life."
Scant days later Hampton Hawes was dead of a brain aneurysm, but he remains alive in my heart. -- John Joss, Los Altos

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We have been attending "The Bach" for many years and have found nothing but joy and renewed youth hearing and seeing the great artists playing "our" music. The solitude of the ocean and the wonderful outdoors is the best medicine that one can receive. We always felt as if we were on an island in the Pacific with Pete. Linda and all those gifted musicians. It is an experience never to be forgotten. May it last for the next generation! – Larry and Caroline Graubart

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Thank you, Pete, for nurturing this uniquely intimate space for music magic to happen. As a musician who has graced the Bach stage, I can say that the beautiful setting and eagerly attentive audience brings out the best in a performer. The live exchange of passion and appreciation between player and listener is what makes music events most memorable. Pete's place makes that magic possible. -- Sonya Jason

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Although I don't get to the Bach often I have very fond memories of special times spent there. Listening to music at the Bach is a unique, intimate, dazzling experience that I hope to indulge in more often this year. I especially remember the last tribute and telling of the story of how the Bach got its name. I have told that story many times and it always gets delightful laughter. – Barbara

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Hi, Linda, obviously living in Alaska limits my access to performances at the Bach. I had the pleasure just a few years back of attending two performances on successive Sundays. One of the artists was Brad Mehldau, playing solo piano in that incredibly warm and intimate room. At the end of the performance the audience rose as one with a tremendous ovation, and we remained standing until Brad returned for an encore. As the last notes faded from the piano, we again rose, and I turned to the woman seated next to me and said, "That was wonderful." She was smiling and nodding, "yes," and the tears were streaming down her face. I have treasured the moment, and thought of it often over the years. There can be no finer tribute to Pete Douglas and his contributions to the performing arts than the look of pure joy on one woman's face at the end of a performance on a Sunday evening at the Bach. May those performances never end, they enrich us all. Gordie Woods

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Dear Pete, Congratulations on this major anniversary and for hanging on for as long as you have in this always-challenging landscape of Jazz, and live performance. Speaking for all the musicians in my bands going back as far as 1971, we all feel there's no safer, more conducive and more enjoyable place to perform than The Bach stage. It's as though all the vibes for the best presentation of Jazz are right there at the Beach House. It's a Dream Place. Thank you for keeping that dream alive! Keep Swinging. – Rex Allen

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Pete Douglas, a truly "one in a million" kind of guy We are music-lovers first and that means we enjoy many different types of music We've been season ticket holders of the SF Symphony for 40 years, Stanford Lively Arts for several years, as well as the Stanford Jazz Workshop. Our radios are tuned to KDFC and KCFM exclusively. We own many wonderful recordings of both jazz and classical music. But my favorite venue for hearing and seeing them is the Douglas Beach House. There is absolutely nothing better than live music and live musicians and it is a wondrous setting in which to hear them. Sometimes I can't decide whether to watch them perform or the glorious sunset occurring outside. It's truly a gift that Pete gives to this harried people that feeds my soul. Thanks so much, Pete. Sincerely, Autumn Bea

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My "Bach Moment" with Pete was actually in Redwood City one Friday night. There was live jazz on a street corner, and I saw a familiar figure in a blue knit hat, scrunched down, huddled against a wall, listening intently. I walked over to him, and said hello. He said he goes out scouting sometimes, just to hear what's new on the scene. I realized just how devoted to jazz this guy is. Susan Bradley

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To say that the "Bach" is special is an understatement. To say that Pete is a lucky fellow is also an understatement! My life has been special living on the coast and I count Pete and the "Bach" for helping it happen! The first time my wife and I came to be at the Bach we met Pete , new right away how special he was and that he lived in a special place. We have met musicians, and guests and mingled with them. All seemed to have put Pete up as the lucky guy who has such a special venue..."The Bach". Thank you Pete, Your friends in Montara, George & Lupe Deasy

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Hi Linda, so happy to hear that you will have Margie Baker by your side to help with the Tribute, she is an old friend of mine and please say hello to hear from me, have not seen her in a long while.

I have nothing but fond memories of Pete and his Home by the sea in Half Moon Bay. Although I have not been going for all 50 years, I have been visiting for almost 30 of those years. Have celebrated many a birthday and those of friends as well. Pete being the great guy that he is, has allowed me to come and sit on the balcony at times, when I had my dates wrong, and no concert was happening. My most wonderful experience was the day I was driving by with friends for a day at the beach, many years ago, and noticed that Toots Thielemans was announced to play at Bach's, so I was able to introduce them to this fabulous artist, they all fell in love with him, as I had more than 50 years ago, as a kid living in Europe. It has also allowed me to come and listen to artists I did not know, as it was Pete who told me over and over to come and do so, and have often been pleased to have learned about a new artist, new to me at least. Come rain or shine it is always a treat to come from San Francisco and spent the day at Pete's and be treated to the best that life music has to offer. Wishing him many more years of success and a big THANK YOU for all he has done and please continue to do what you are doing Pete!! Maya Brouwer

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I've been involved with Pacifica Performances for it's entire existence of 32 years and have been Artistic Director for the past 15 years, and I understand that heart thumping "hit" that comes in a live performance! Pete, you have been a role model and inspiration for presenting wonderful, talented, exciting musicians in an intimate setting for music. The Bach D & D has been a guiding light and a compatriot for many years and we are grateful. Mildred Owen, Pacifica Performances

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The Bach is a room that becomes an instrument in the production of intimate and vibrant musical experiences. The light, the ocean, the camaraderie, and musicians all resonate together. Senses move from sound to sight to energy- kinetically creating feelings that are always magical and perfect in the moment. It is just the very best place for listening to good music. – Helen Conway

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Most appreciative all the talent which has passed through your "living/jiving room". Several "standout nights" included Gene Harris and Ray Brown...truly unforgettable. Also an unbelievable performance from Geoff Keezer and Eddie Palmier. The years have passed all too quickly. It's been quite a ride Pete. Thank you for sharing your house and your life's pursuit. Patty Boyle

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As a professional pianist who started attending shows at Bach D&D as a college music major in the late 70’s, I’d have to say that Pete Douglas is as influential a teacher as any I ever studied with. The opportunity to see Bill Evans with his last trio in such an intimate setting was truly a gift from God. I’m grateful for the opportunity to have heard Hampton Hawes shortly before he passed. I still owe you the price of admission for the day I snuck in without paying helping John Hendricks unload equipment. His band that day featured a 21 year old Makoto Ozone. One memory that really sticks and a story I’ve told many times has to do with a performance by the late, great, Jaki Byard. Jaki decided to play some saxophone that day and as most who have heard him can attest, that as a sax man, Jaki was a truly amazing pianist. Anyway he was hamming it up on a blues and at one-point in mid-solo he grabbed a bottle of beer from a startled patron sitting in the front row. He took a swig and proceeded to pour the remainder of the beer down the bell of his horn. I don’t think the audience stopped laughing for the rest of his set. Thanks Pete, for being a big part of the reason I’m still struggling to pay the rent as a musician. I wouldn’t trade it for anything. Sincerely, Mike Garvey, Colleyville, TX

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Pete Douglas has made a major and significant contribution to the world of music. It has been my pleasure to work with him only a short few years, but I always found him open, passionate and current. Those of us in the industry appreciate Pete. Keep up the great work, Pete. Steve Frumkin, Jim Wadsworth Productions

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Bach Society is a musical gem of the universe and we feel so blessed each time we attend. Thanks again, Mary Kay and Mike

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I am buying lotto tickets these days-if I win, I'll be talking to Pete first. I wish things could be different, but maintaining the Bach is still a matter I ponder often, even if I"m not attending enough concerts. Thank you for letting us know about Pete. Medea And, what a beautiful thing you've done Linda in gathering up these tributes for him now.

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No one should doubt the incredible value of having Bach Soc. live venue ! It's like having food versus looking at a photo of food. Look at what happens with live performances in the various arenas in the Bay area they are typically sold out ! (At least the ones I might go to). Anyway, I love Bach Dancing & Dynamite ! John Cooper

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I feel as if I have been "getting' it" for years and have also felt extremely "at home" at The Bach. It's not just the vibe that Pete gives the place, but includes all the great musicians and listeners of days past. - dk

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This is just a note to let you know what it is like to have a great friend like Pete. I have never seen him in a grumpy mood. He loves his work and what he has created at the Bach, but even more what he has created for others to enjoy. I first met Pete 30 years ago when I first came to California. He has always been the ultimate in hospitality. We have taken a trip together, shared lots of fun times on his patio, rollerskated, and enjoy venues. I am proud to be his friend, Congratulations, Always friends, Janice Gough

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We've been a member of the Bach for about 14 years and I can't tell you how wonderful it has been. The fact that Pete opens his house and heart to so many people is truly amazing. And I'm sure that I will never find another place that offers such an incredible experience - fantastic music coupled with the positive ions of the ocean and the salty dog (Pete) himself just can't be beat. Pete, I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart. Flo Sparks

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PETE, PETE , PETE
He walks around there with his whiskey on ice,
some think it is tea.
He walks around there with his pipe,
some think it is for tobacco.
he walks around there not saying hello to hardly any one,
Some think he is grumpy.
But for any person to modify his house and opening it, for nearly 50 years, to a
bunch of strangers to enjoy music in terrific ambiance, Pete, you have to be all heart and be very real. PETE WE APPRECIATE YOU AND WHAT YOU DOING FOR MUSIC, THE COMMUNITY AND ALL OF US ! ! Corrie Grové

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I've attended many events at BDDS with friends since the '70s including a group of us at the 30-year-time-to-retire-event (yeh right), this group included the man I married 11 years ago at BDDS. It was a short ceremony and big celebration including with Morning and Jim Nichols providing the music. We've introduced many friends to BDDS. PS thank you too for your wonderful efforts and staying with it! Sincerely, Bonnie Miller

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While I haven't been in years, will you please pass on my best to the grand ol gent by the beach? He's truly one of a kind, and one of the great characters I miss from my days in the "biz" side of music. Best, Chip Tingle, Trombone & Low Brass

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We are sure it will be a Fabulous Celebration to Pete for his dedication & commitment to bring wonderfully talented musicians from of all styles of music to his Beach House setting. We feel this is truly the Best Place to listen to music & feel the "heart beat" of the musicians as they perform in this intimate setting!
Thanks for All the Great Music, Pete! Susan & Ernie Hoyer

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We have been Bach patrons for many years. We love the venue, the beach, the views, the intimate setting and most of all the varied and wonderful music from classical to jazz to everything in between. Food is fun too! Pete has provided an incredible music experience that is unduplicated anywhere else! Thank him for sharing his home, his talents, his heart and his work. The concerts are worth the trek from the East Bay, despite the traffic! PS. Would love to see the Oakland Interfaith Gospel choir on the performance list someday. Terrance Kelly is an incredible vocalist, the choir is dynamic and Terrance's dad, jazz pianist Ed Kelly, was one of your regulars while he was still alive. Love the addition of the salsa music, but haven't heard of any gospel singers there yet! We salute Pete and all of you for your efforts to make the Bach work. We know funding and presenting the arts is no easy task! Thanks and Best Wishes, Linda Willis & Larry Hutchings, Castro Valley

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I have been coming to the Beach House for many years and love it because it's such a cozy and intimate venue where you can interface with the musicians on a face-to-face basis. Also, you can't beat the view from the deck. Pete, thanks for all the wonderful music over the years. Janet Lutus

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I've been a fan for at least 30 of your remarkable 50 years of superb concert-giving. I attended wonderful evenings of solo guitar. You could hear the ocean during the quiet moments. A group of us used to come in December to hear chamber music by candle light, always the start of our holiday season. I miss the classical music evenings, but I cannot thank you enough for all the wonderful jazz musicians you've brought us. There is nowhere else where you can sit five feet away from Eddy Daniels or Ernestine Anderson! There have been moments when the music filled the room so completely it filled me as well. Thank you for believing such concerts are essential. They are, so you can't stop now. Smiles, Ann Duwe

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Joy and strength with Diversity. A well balance selection of artists make
every weekend unique and rewarding. Talmy Rauch

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I've gone to concerts at Bach since the early 1970s. It was great then and
extraordinary now. You go, Pete. Jeanne Bell

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I started going to music at the Bach about 20 years ago, as my mom lives in Montara...and I in Santa Cruz, so it is a good meet spot...The Bach is a fabulous place to have an intimate musical experience, have a tasty treat, share time with friends and loved ones, meet new aquaintances, and enjoy a spectacular view...Namaste, and much aloha to you for opening up your home, hearth and heart to the music, culture and friendships that transpire there!? I love your venue, and know that I have many wonderful memories from evenings spent there...especially with Holly Near. You have, and ARE a TREASURE!!! Thanks again, Jan Taylor (and I am sure my mom would? agree...)

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hi, i just want to say that i'm sorry i never got around to writing a tribute. i just can't seem to get my act together. i'm always grumpy myself and think everyone else is better off, being able to buy a beach house, etc. but maybe it's true that even people with money aren't necessarily happy. i appreciate the intimate, informal setting and have heard some great music at the Bach. i'd like to know more about Pete's story, what it was like in the old days, Beat Generation, etc. but am too shy to initiate a conversation. maybe he'll write it all down for us sometime. best wishes and hope to see you soon, Carl Hoffman,

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When I was about 26 years old, I met Pete Douglas as I walked by his home on a morning walk. I saw the sign outside but couldn't tell what kind of place it was. Pete was sitting outside, smoking his pipe. I asked him "what IS this place?" His reply was "Why don't you come by Sunday and find out?" That was 25 years ago. I have enjoyed concerts, dancing, private partys, spontaneous hangs, an ongoing friendship with Pete and have been the recipient of his philosophies and musings about people, life, and music. I've met and talked with great musicians in a casual way, and I was able to bring my mother to concerts, friends to concerts and events, and best of all: I was able to bring my young son Nick, starting at his tender age of 3 years old, (sometimes in his pajamas) to expose him to such a wonderful and unique and magical person and place, Pete Douglas and his home which also serves as a public music destination --the only one of it's kind , The Bach Society. I love Pete and everything about the Bach. ~Debra Maher

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"Each January 1st we sit down with the calendar to record our 'must do's' for the year ahead - and Pete's concerts are among the first items put on our calendar. His setting is magical - the ocean, the food, the wine and always the best music in the Bay Area. We've been to other jazz venues, but we always come back to Pete's and say 'it doesn't get any better than this!' Thank you Pete, a thousand times over, for sharing your passion." Cheryl Pierson-Carey

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With jazz venues shrinking and the shrinking audience of jazz lovers who were raised hearing the legendary players. The Bach and Pete's contribution to jazz can not be underestimated. There have been many magic moments that I will never forget, and I hope Pete and this wonderful legacy will continue far into the future. Ken Brown

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I was so jazzed (pun intended) when I discovered The Bach' that I hosted my part of my family reunion there a few years back: 19 of us came from all over Calif., Ohio, Washington and Connecticutt. I was the family hero(ine) of the moment! It was a perfect sunny N. Cal. day: music was fantastic and we danced our butts off the second session when Doug cleared tables, as he often did. Everyone still talks about the water, the music, the food and the coolest venue for a blast to enjoy the past (in our case). I've been to the Bach in all types of weather enjoying all types of music; I remember every moment. Thanks a zillion, Doug, for some of my best memories! You're one fine dude! What you do reaches farther than you know.

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What Pete has created at his beach house is truly extraordinary, and in my 13 years as a booking agent and manager for numerous musicians, many of whom have played there, I've never encountered anything else like it. A first-class venue in an incomparable setting, with an informal, family atmosphere that dissolves any barriers between performers and audience and puts everyone perfectly at ease to simply relax and enjoy the experience. I've been to enough concerts there to know that the excellent quality of the music and the joyous vibe are consistent, yet each concert is unique because the musicians Pete presents are so unique and varied. It's certainly my favorite music venue ANYWHERE, and I look forward to my next visit, for J.D. Walter on March 31st.