musical shells

I have never seen a piano been hit so hard by a pianist, but it did create some great music. I attended the UCH last night for one of the Shannon International Music concerts, Joanna MacGregor & the Irish Chamber Orchestra. It was a really enjoyable concert with a varied mix of music that caressed and invigorated the senses.

I admit I know very little about music, and even less about classical music. Yet I could see the intensity and passion that Miss MacGregor puts into her performance. Often, she would lean forward hunching over the piano and you could see her smiling with glee like a mischievous school child hunched over a desk. Then she would recompose herself, proud and erect, concentrating and listening, like a teacher critically examining every note. She would conduct the orchestra at times when she was waiting for her next piece, always in control.

Some pieces resulted in a wall of sound being created, in particular the Libertango which was amazing. The pedal was to the floor as continuous notes reigned in on existing notes radiating a calvery of sound from the piano. I am sure there are names for such effects. Then there were other times when she pounded the piano with clenched fists and possibly even an elbow with such ferocity, amazing, I think even some members of the ICO were surprised.

After that I was peckish, so I went home to use the eggs that my mum's hens gave me, indirectly and probably involuntary, but I appreciate them all the more for that. I decided to make an omelette, which should be relatively easy but I am not getting it as nice as I would like, not sure what I am doing wrong. Oh well, I think I'll just have to get more eggs and practice :)

Sweet tomato music

The succulent sweetness of tomatoes invigorated with a warm chilli sensation makes Penne All'Arrabbiata a deliciously divine dish. I initially read the recipe in the Silver Spoon, albeit a friend's copy of it and I didn't have the wherewithall to write it down. I was surprised by how simple it seemed. Fortunately, the Italian Foodies were the saviour for my taste buds.

A reminder for the MBNA Shannon International Music Festival, a brochure can be downloaded here. I am looking forward to the Salsa Celtica and also Joanna MacGregor & the Irish Chamber Orchestra looks good.

Stony Gold Soil and well done MGB

I always knew people from Monaghan had hearts of gold, but now it seems they have fields of it also.

I am going to have to manage my time better. Unfortunately, I didn't have a chance to cook anything recently. And especially when I look at various food blogs and their delicious looking photos, makes me so jealous ;-)

Well done to Mr MGB for handing in his thesis. Great stuff!