Amidst all the chaos these last few weeks, I had a chance to see R. Carlos Nakai and Will Eaton in concert this afternoon.For those who don't know, R. Carlos Nakai (RC) is a rather famous Native American Flute Musician. He plays a wide variety of flutes, and has released well over 30 albums since the 1980's. His music is soothing, peaceful, and extraordinarily graceful. This is the perfect kind of music to let your mind wander.
In fact, that's what RC said during the concert. When he plays his music, he wants you to use your imagination to take you places.
Will Eaton joined RC on stage, and played the double head harp guitar, which is so elaborate it has its own computer built in. Yes, a computer. It even has its own little monitor. This allows Will to play multiple instruments in one, and bring in certain elements of song that you wouldn't normally be able to do with only two people playing.
What was really impressive was their collaboration on improvisation. After a standing ovation at the end of the performance, the two walked back on stage to play one more tune. Will turned to RC and said "you wanna just do another improv?"
The crowd cheered, and they began a 7 minute song. They fed off of one another, using plenty of instruments to quickly find the right beat and then bring the song to life. Everything from the bass, to the guitar, to the piano, to the Native American flutes were used.
This music took my mind out of the stresses of life for two hours. Sometimes that's all you need.
DM
