Summer Solstice 2025 - June "Free Form" MeetUp!

Hello, Piano Friends,

I cannot believe that we are already mid-2025! But here we are, and eager to play as much as possible. This is a (belated) reminder of our next PianoForte MeetUp which coincides with the summer solstice! You know the routine - 7-9 minutes of music of any genre, a small $10 donation towards our beautiful venue and light refreshments and excitement to cheer on your fellow performers.

While I've got you here, please lock in the remaining dates for 2025 in your calendars now:

• September 13
• October 25
• December 6 - Holiday Recital

While I will continue to send numerous reminders, you now know the additoinal dates so you can plan early.

A note about format: As we have merged two groups with slightly different traditions, I've gotten a few questions about the formality of our program (i.e. my request for your song choice and placing you in order). While I personally prefer a slightly more laid back gathering where people come up when they feel inspired, I realize that can be daunting for newer members or those with less playing experience. Ultimately, this is an environment meant to be inviting to all comers.

However, as our summer gatherings tend to be a bit lighter in attendance, for this month, we will have a "free form" gathering. We will adjust to an 8-10 minute time frame. However, we will forego the formal order and allow people to decide when they would like to play (with the exception of the 15-minute slot, which will always play last).

Out of respect for your fellow pianists, I will still ask that more experienced performers or those with more difficult repertoire allow time for newer or less experienced players to play earlier (and I know who you are, so you can't fool me). After all, there is nothing more daunting than being a first-time performer playing after someone who has just played Chopin's 4th Ballade. :(

I also ask that you stay for the entirety of our program, or at least notify me if you have to leave early. We have developed a wonderful rapport within this group that I want to preserve as best as possible. As such, please be courteous to your fellow performers. I know that it is not always possible to arrive before 2, but if you arrive late, please enter as quietly as possible. And more importantly, please do not demand to play early then leave immediately thereafter; that is especially disruptive to our harmonious piano vibe.

Finally, as is part of our newer tradition, we offer a coveted 15-minute spot for a longer piece. The June spot has been claimed (that's you, Anderson), but there will be other gatherings this year, there will be other opportunities for longer playing times.

OK, enough of the rules and regs. Just RSVP quickly and I'll see you in 3 weeks!

Audra