On Monday we went to the Vienna Mozart Orchestra at the beautiful Musikverein Golden Hall.
As soon as I knew we had confirmed the tickets, I knew my brother would be green with envy.
The day had been hot, we had spent the afternoon in a glass-top tour bus ripening like red tomatoes in a greenhouse, and by the time we got there, I felt more than a little disheveled.
I stood in the door watching a sea of beautiful people swim past.
An Asian gentleman with a flop of copper finge, crisp pin-striped suit and brown boots looking oh so cool. An elderly lady, european features, dripping with diamonds from her throat, ear and wrists, ready to enjoy an evening of culture. And a young lady, silk satin dress clinging to every curve, the fabric rippling as she glided effortlessly to the stairs.
I excused myself to the bathroom and looked in the mirror.
My face was pink to match the flowers on my blouse, my hair needed a brush and my eyes looked sleepy. I applied fresh lipstick in an attempt to feel more human before being led into the concert hall to take my seat.
The air in there was cool and the opulence of gilded sculptured ladies supported the balcony in a way that made every person marvel.
The bells sounded, we all took our seats, and the musicians filled out to take the stage before us, testing their instruments against the sound of the first violinist’s note.
A robust man dressed in bronze brocade took centre stage ready to conduct the treat that lay in store.
The room fell to silence.
His arms rose.
The music started.
For the next hour, I sat transfixed.
The costumes filling the stage
I watched the passion as the musicians played with all their hearts, the baritone and soprano portrayed every range of emotion with their voices and the conductor teased each note with precision and skill.
Most of the music was familiar, but to hear it played in that live concert hall surrounding, it burrows deep into your heart and makes you lose yourself.
Whether classical music is your thing, or you prefer a concert by My Chemical Romance, There is something about live music that feeds your soul. And you should never turn down the opportunity to experience it.