One of the best things about living within walking distance of Musikfest is the unintended magic of catching a friend’s show – even if it’s just for a few minutes, and I did my best to make that happen this year. According to an app on Gail’s phone, she claims we walked 10 miles together, but I logged another two miles just to meet up with her at our mutual starting point. (I’m not one to rely on phone apps – more likely to rely on how my body feels at the end of the day, and I was truly wiped out from the sun and fun.
We really are fortunate to reside in this City of Bethlehem, and to contribute to the beating heart of our community. Just walking through the festival yesterday, we were met with so many smiles and hugs from friends and acquaintances alike. It’s a lot to take in, for sure, and we probably missed a few folks in the crowds, but today I feel nourished once again, and ready to start the “school year”.
I’ve lived and worked in Bethlehem for 25 years now, and inevitably there’s always an underlying urgency for everything to be completed before Musikfest. In the graphic design business, it’s typically a print deadline, and this year was no exception! One of my clients asked me to design a 10 ft. x 7 ft. background graphic banner – illustrating a map of the Lehigh Valley with two dozen landmarks and icons – the bulk of which was worked on in the week leading up to the festival and sending off to be printed overnight and installed the next day! Whew!
As a self-employed couple, the entire 10 days of the festival is just work, work, work, laundry, eat, sleep, repeat, and today could not be A MORE PERFECT DAY OF work, relax, stroll, eat, sleep…a long exhale.
Just to wrap up performances this time around…I’m left with an overall experience of personal growth and fulfillment. Working with a fabulous band is an incredible feeling, both in the moment and afterwards. It’s about trust, and joy, and enthusiasm, and looking ahead to the next time. Andy, Rameen, Todd, and Nick are my dear friends – first and foremost – and I’m so glad I get to share this with them all.
In years past, I’ve dreaded the solo spots, mostly because it can be very lonely on stage if the audience isn’t with you. This year’s festival was different. Maybe it’s because I’ve worked so hard over the past dozen months as a solo performing songwriter. Maybe it’s because I’ve learned how to carefully break down the walls of hired performer vs. loud, inattentive (not-necessarily here to listen) audience. Or maybe it’s just that I’ve finally gained an authentic following. It’s probably a combination of all that, and yeah, that’s cool with me. I’ll keep working, reaching higher every day.
The biggest “Thanks!” goes out to everyone who came to the shows, listened with their hearts, and even bought merch. I appreciate you, and like I always say, “I’ll see ya next time!”
DINA HALL 