Ouch! Once upon a time, while traveling to perform at Indiana University, I departed my flight, grabbed my flute case from the overhead compartment, and heard some rattling noises. Was it a flute case or a rain stick! Oh no! My signature one-of-a-kind hand-made, quartz crystal flute was shattered in its case.
Of course, I was scheduled to perform in Indiana in another day or so, to be followed by a trip to Washington D.C. to perform a solo concert of my own works. The D.C. concert was presented by the Library of Congress, at the National Museum of Natural History's Baird Auditorium. With the help of some Indiana University faculty, I found Don Garvin, a scientific glass blower on campus, who graciously came to my rescue. After a couple of days labor, I was off performing on a new quartz flute, without missing a single gig.
Of course, I was scheduled to perform in Indiana in another day or so, to be followed by a trip to Washington D.C. to perform a solo concert of my own works. The D.C. concert was presented by the Library of Congress, at the National Museum of Natural History's Baird Auditorium. With the help of some Indiana University faculty, I found Don Garvin, a scientific glass blower on campus, who graciously came to my rescue. After a couple of days labor, I was off performing on a new quartz flute, without missing a single gig.
Me performing at the Smithsonian's "Baird Auditorium" on my newly fashioned quartz flute, for a Library of Congress concert. In the lower right corner is my water instrument made from a Fondu Pot and severed refrigerator shelf.
I should say that I am still performing on this particular flute. And what’s not mentioned in the video above, is that I also have a backup quartz flute as well — that I hope I never have to use! Don fashioned me a second flute, just in case the first one ever breaks (which it hasn’t). Deep thanks to my glass blowing savior, and best wishes on all your continued success. I also fashioned a sturdy, overly engineered, protective, padded case for both flutes, so the quartz instruments are safe while traveling (crossing fingers and toes).
Please check out this video feature (above) by Producer Jason Pear of The Weekly Special, about the exceptional Don Garvin, and a bit about my quartz flute. Between markers 2:45 and 4:00 (min:sec), Jason added a bit of my quartz flute music in the background as well. Thank you Jason, and thank you Don!
Please check out this video feature (above) by Producer Jason Pear of The Weekly Special, about the exceptional Don Garvin, and a bit about my quartz flute. Between markers 2:45 and 4:00 (min:sec), Jason added a bit of my quartz flute music in the background as well. Thank you Jason, and thank you Don!
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