If you see me somewhere, ask me to tell you this joke - the second gem I've received from the amazing Scottish guitarist Tony McManus. Tony first played Voyageur in 2007 at a show with David Gillis in Jordan Ontario and we've been in conversation ever since about finding the right occasion to combine forces again. This was the weekend.
Every year, Tony hosts a guitar masterclass/retreat with special guests in his beautiful hometown of Elora Ontario. This year's special guest was the extraordinary Don Ross, who also has a storied history with Voyageur, as does one of Tony's regular masterclass attendees, David Neale - one of Six String Nation's most dedicated and key supporters.
A public concert is part of the retreat and last night at the Elora United Church I was invited to start the show with my presentation. Tony, Don (fresh in from a gig in Moscow) and David all played Voyageur as part of the show. The camaraderie of the evening moved from the church to the pub and resumed again this afternoon (following a sumptuous brunch) at the masterclass headquarters. I'm sure they eventually got some guitar playing done.
Thanks to Tony, Don, David and all the attendees of the McManus Fall Seminar (pictured - Tony holding Voyageur, Don Ross right behind him), Minister Greg Smith-Young and sound man Ed. Thanks also to Wiggitt Hall B&B, Roger Dufau and the staff of Drew House, and everyone who attended Saturday night's concert. I'll look forward to a return to Elora!
Posted at 10:11 PM