This summer, my musical adventures have included the WSMTA Conference (Washington State Music Teachers’ Association) in Spokane, Washington; the OCTA National Convention (Oregon California Trails Association) in Pendleton, Oregon; and The American Road Show Concert – featuring Sheryl Crow, Willie Nelson, and Chris Stapleton at the T-Mobile Stadium in Seattle.

WSMTA Conference highlights included connecting with music friends and colleagues while attending workshops, lectures, and concerts. I reunited with my college piano professor and friend, Steven Hesla, now retired from the University of Montana. I also presented a session on Music in the Westward Expansion: Songs of Heart and Place on the American Frontier, based on my book of the same title.

Our featured conference artist was Connor Chee, a native Navajo pianist/composer. His evening concert featured a dreamy and emotive program packed with solo piano pieces inspired by traditional Navajo songs and stories. My favorite was a piece called Weaving. Listen to the music of Connor Chee here.

Joe, my wonderful other half, traveled with me to Pendelton, Oregon, home of the confederated tribes of the Umatilla, Cayuse, and Walla Walla. The OCTA conference took place in the Wildhorse Casino which is where we also stayed. In the evening, and early morning, Joe and I enjoyed walks around the beautiful grassy areas surrounding the Wildhorse as we took in the scenery including the gentle Blue Mountains. We also visited the Pendleton History Museum and the Pendleton Woolen Mill, which is best known for vibrantly colored woolen blankets.

Just a few days after the Pendleton Trip, Joe and I attended the American Road Show with Sheryl Crow, Willie Nelson, and Chris Stapleton at T-Mobile arena in Seattle. Sheryl Crow kicked off the show with her rockin’ band – I loved her music in the 90’s and she’s still going strong. My favorites included All I Want to Do is Have Some Fun, Soak up the Sun, and The First Cut is the Deepest. Watch her tiny desk concert here.

Next up was Willie Nelson (91 years old) who walked onstage with his trademark braids tied back with a bandana while holding his trusty OLD guitar, “Trigger.” He sat down, and instantly launched into Whiskey River Take My Mind. He didn’t stop there! He delivered four more songs in rapid succession before taking a break to address the audience. He delivered incredible guitar playing and seasoned vocals with every selection- all the while backed by his trusty bandmates. The harmonica player, Mickey Raphael, has been with him for 51 years. Now that’s some dedication! My favorite songs were Angel Flying too Close to the Ground, Mama’s Don’t Let Your Babies Grow up to be Cowboys, and Bloody Mary Mornin’. For a short set featuring Willie Nelson, check out his 27 minute concert on NPR.

Just as the sun sank over downtown Seattle, the man of the hour and his band took to the stage with an epic live version of one of his newest hits, White Horse. His searing vocals, musical artistry, and death defying vocal and guitar playing agility came through loud and clear throughout the stadium. The band punched out one hit after another some slow and sultry such as Cold, and You Should Probably Leave. Other selections were raucous and edgy such as a version of Free Bird, and Think I’m in Love with You. He also gave the best band introduction EVER…. improvising a vocal solo for each band member over the chords of Tennessee Whiskey. He introduced his wife and backing vocalist, Morgane Stapleton, last… saving his best improvisation for the love of his life. Be still my heart! I recommend watching Chris Stapelton’s Tiny Desk Concert from 2015 here.

There is nothing like live music in Seattle in the summer, and this concert soared with one high quality performance after another! The Seattle Times wrote a thorough review of the concert which you will find here.

After the trifecta of musical experiences, I’m home for the month of August, teaching, practicing, and preparing for fall performances and events.

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