In my family, there’s no need to go out of one’s way to find opportunities to sing and play. Last night, friends Laura and John hosted a Valentine’s Day gala that was also the most upscale open mic I have ever been to. The Woods clan made the largest appearance, with father, brother and sister with their significant others in tow. Every hour on the hour, starting at 6pm, there was an open mic set, broken up by different food displays and strolls through groups of musical friends. Music ranged from classical (“Never Seen Blue Like That” ala Helena Westenra) to Rock and Motown (Dave sang “Brick House” among other numbers).

My brother sang a superior rendition of Kevin Sandbloom’s “Replay” which he sung to his sweetheart. I jumped on stage to lend harmonies. I ended up playing “Not About Friday” and a new song called “Redo”. If you can believe it, there was actually a grand piano in almost every room. I must have encountered 5 of them. Most of the night, our host John accompanied people. He’s one of those “read the sheet music in real time for the first time and create an amazing solo to boot” people.

Surprisingly, my father did not sing. He usually does, but I was just impressed he was out so late to a party that went till midnight. As always, I just loved another excuse to dress up. My sister’s blue dress and Abby’s purple velvet number made the whole night glow a bit more. And men in suits; songs for days about that phenomenon. This morning, I’m happy in my pajamas, glued to garageband and my journal. See you soon.

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