Thad standing in for Brad

Steve Reich was extremely patient with all the press attention. I guess he was used to it by now, having been in the limelight for the entire year, and didn't even seem to notice the photographers following him around.

Steve being papped

Loads of fantastic food had been laid on for us before the concert - a shame for those who couldn't partake. The rest of us made the most of it!

Fortunately, Brad turned up for the concert looking considerably better, but Gerry was getting worse and had to go and throw up just before going on stage! Poor thing! That said, Daniel Variations was particularly brilliant this evening. It's amazing what a bit of adrenaline can do!

For the first time, all the Music for 18 players and singers were OK. Suzanne was on the mend - hurrah!

Les (crucial on 1st clarinet!) back on form

After the concert, they kindly laid on champagne and canapes for the performers. Gerry had gone back to the hotel straight after the Daniel Variations performance, but Andy came to the reception representing the tenors. Mandy, Andy and I had a lovely long chat with Steve Reich. (Thank goodness he hadn't succumbed to this lurgie - that would have been a disaster!) Among other things, we were discussing what he'd be writing next. I hope I've convinced him he needs to write a piece for string 4tet and voice 4tet. He seemed very interested....fingers crossed!"

Micaela