AUGUST then, takes me almost immediately to Oxford's Philomusica Festival where this time (third successive year) I will make a recital appearance and teach a couple of Master Classes: I do enjoy its uniquely cosy atmosphere! Oh yes: something amazing happened to me there, last year: my very first piano teacher Dirce Bauer (I went to her at 4ys of age!) with whom I have recently re-established contact, decided to enter as a participant and…you've guessed it: she came to play for me! It was such a moving experience, I will never forget it (and most of those present): the eagerness and humility (actually she's only in her early 70s) of a marvelous pianist who's willing to get the opinion of somebody whom SHE had musically-alphabetized! Hey, that must be a one-in-a-million, surely! Beat this!

NOW can I have some time off? Thanks.