I could hardly wait to get to work this morning - this is ridiculous! - to write about the amazing concert last night in the middle of the gardens at Morris Arboretum in Chestnut Hill. A couple of friends and I packed a picnic supper, grabbed some wine, some chairs and a blanket, and headed over to hear Cintron, a Latin soul and jazz band that does salsa, R&B, pop, beaucoup, beaucoup!
You ain't heard nothin' till you've heard a Latin version of "Take the 'A' Train"... it rocked!
It was hard to guess how many folks turned out last night because we were spread all over the Azalea Meadow, but the arboretum staff reports this morning that they counted 675. For the first concert on July 12 - the Ambler Symphony Orchestra - about 800 people showed up. And best of all, the event is free with admission or, if you're a member, free, period.
It was a mellow crowd, and evening, with mild temperatures and beautiful vistas. The sun set, the moon peeked out, and the music was fabulous. And the food? We feasted on a array of cold salads, fresh fruit and chilled wine. Some folks came extra early and set up their outdoor dining rooms and savored a leisurely dinner.
We saw people with hoagies and pizzas and closer to the stage a group sipping Champagne from flutes. Whatever you like.
Next week's concert features Philly Gumbo, which combines New Orleans funk, blues and reggae. I can't wait to go. The final concert is Aug. 9 - the Arpeggio Jazz Ensemble.
Concerts start at 7 p.m., end promptly at 8:30 p.m. For those who can get to the garden earlier than 7, there are free beer tastings from 6-7 p.m.
Morris director Paul Meyer says the arboretum has sponsored outdoor entertainment before, with music or Scottish dancing, but that the idea was hard to market because the offerings and audiences were so diverse. This "Groovin' in the Garden" concert series appeals to lots more folks and is easier to promote.
And one more thing. For those of you with young children, feel free to bring them along. For those of you without, have no fear. Last night the kids raced around and had a fine time and never once drowned out the music. As I said, very mellow.
And quite a setting. Dragonflies were darting here and there, the flowers are (still) remarkably lush - even the Rose Garden looks good. I'd like to see the arboretum's water bill!
My friends and I are already plotting our return next week.
Hope to see you there.
