Today, there was a special event that DMP was fortunate to be able to participate in. The festival wanted to honor the legacy and memory of Shirley Walker and they asked Michael, Kristopher, and Lolita to help out. Also on hand was Shirley’s son Colin who had flown over with his family for the festival.  Larry Rench, one of Shirley’s primary orchestrators for many years and a part of our traveling group was also on stage to share stories and memories of her. It was an emotional hour and half filled with both tears and laughter as everyone talked about the amazing influence that Shirley had had on their lives and on their careers. It was an appropriate and meaningful tribute and it proved beyond a shadow of a doubt that the reach and influence of her musical legacy continues to live on even after her untimely passing.

Things have progressed nicely here as Playfest continues. DMP and friends enjoyed a beautiful dinner on Tuesday night  (tasting menu) that lasted 3 hours. A wonderful time sharing stories and delicious and unexpected flavors. It was a highlight for all of us. Michael, Lolita, and Kristopher have continued their interaction with the festival organizers, participants, and fans and it’s been a great experience for all. Wednesday, a few of us drove to Granada to see the Alhambra Palace. Well worth the 2.5 hour drive. More to come soon.

Ubeda is everything we hoped it would be. Warm and friendly, quaint and beautiful, and not too HOT! We had been warned by previous festival participants to be ready for oppressive heat and humidity. Fortunately for us, the weather “gods” were smiling on us and we had clear skies with very manageable temperatures throughout our stay. Walking the narrow streets of the old city truly makes you feel like you’re in a time machine and have been transported back a few hundred years. DMP had a wonderful panel and classroom session with aspiring composers and musicians to start off their week here in town. It was a lively session featuring clips, questions, and listening. A TV reporter came by and Lolita represented the team for a quick interview. More to tell soon.