We started our late morning at Jan & Greg’s room, because they texted us and said there were pastries there. Who can say no to that?
Then it was back to our room to get dressed in the warm stuff, and we all met in the lobby and walked to a closer, smaller, less crowded Christmas market.
We went to a pharmacy to get me something in case I start coughing at tonight’s concert. I actually feel pretty good, and the cold I have is progressing quickly. I just figure it’s better to be prepared: when we were at the Voces8 concert a woman had a horrendous hacking cough that went on throughout a large portion of the concert. (If I get that bad I’ll leave the hall!)
Taking my cough suppresant back to the hotel, we then went out yet again. Our first stop was the concert hall very close to our hotel. Greg knew the hall that had been used was being renovated, but he thought the one they are using instead was nearby.
Um. Nope.
We finally found information on their website and it turns out it’s a two+ mile walk from our hotel. I think we’ll be taking a taxi.
We continued walking, and just took in more sights. We visited a church, and when we came back out we each got just a few snowflakes on us. But that was IT for snow.
Because of how crowded it is here, Greg suggested we attempt to find a lunch spot right then. After two places that were too full we did find one and had a Bavarian meal. This is to be our larger meal of the day since the concert begins at 7:00 and we get our taxi around 6:00.
After lunch more walking.
Greg eventually split off to see a friend, and Jan, Dan, and I were going to head back to the hotel until we heard brass instruments. Going the opposite way, we found them and listened for a brief time.
Then it was back “home” again. And the rain began as we neared the Hilton. Probably because we had read that it wasn’t going to rain.
At the hotel I started typing up this day’s post, and then took a nap. I wanted to be sure I was well rested for the concert.
And rested I was! The four of us caught a taxi to the hall, and of course the person on stage getting ready when we finally went in was the principal oboist for the night. Typical! But then they all have to be off stage (except the basses for some reason) and when the concert begins they file in together to audience applause.
I had always admired Nathalie Stuzmann and I admire her even more now! What a fabulous conductor!
Here is the program:
The location for these performances is rather interesting. When you enter it feels more like an art exhibit or something.
Then you go in to the hall and I was somewhat surprised. But in any case, it was a wonderful concert and the musicians were great!
Following the concert one of us really wanted food so after catching another taxi (which too a while) we found an Italian restaurant that was open and had a spot for us.
Then it was back to Jan & Greg’s for a glass of wine. Well, except not Dan. He’s being a very good boy. Heck he even went to sleep before I finished writing this!
So tomorrow is our last full day here. I suspect we’ll do a lot of walking if the weather is cooperative. So hoping!
And now goodnight!
