Can't Wait!

We’re very close to the beginning of our season now, which means my artist juggling is intensifying. One of my duties is taking care of our musicians—that’s working with the agents and artists to ensure that our musicians are well taken care of and have everything they need for their trip and stay here. Who needs how many hotel rooms? (And who shares rooms with whom? ;-) Do they need a babysitter for any children travelling with them? What chairs and lighting will they need on the stage? Does the cellist want a piano bench or straight-backed chair? Who has dietary needs for receptions and dinners? Who might have medical needs? Who needs transportation and who doesn’t? (I drive a Grand Prix—who’s going to drive them all with their luggage and instruments?)

But also when it gets to this time of the year, and most of that work is done, I look forward to being with the artists themselves. I love spending time with them (well, most of them—I admit there are a couple I’ve met I’d rather just hit with a rock!). The vast majority of them are extremely nice and down-to-earth. We have the same kinds of conversations one would have with any other acquaintance. We talk about our families, our homes, politics, our hobbies. I find that the younger ones are often very excited about travelling and being on our prestigious series. They like to hear about Kansas City if they haven’t been here, and often plan to enjoy the Bar-B-Que, the Plaza, and maybe KC jazz while they’re here. The more experienced ones sometimes have travelled for so many years that they’re very appreciative of just a little extra effort and a smile. And when they return on the series, they greet you like old friends.

The first concert’s right around the corner! There are other duties coming I’d rather do without, but spending time with the artists—can’t wait!