We were so excited that we had been able to get tickets, as we are both big fans. We arrived early, before the gates were opened - but we were not alone, it seems everyone had had the same idea of getting a prime seat on the lawn. When the gates opened it was a rush for a spot and the sight was rather amusing: people laden down with all manner of portable comfort - chairs, folding tables, picnic baskets, etc. I could hardly believe the spreads some people brought - full meals, candelabras, wine, the whole nine yards. We were content with our sandwiches, lawn chairs and "fairy lights" (tea candles stuck inside jam jars). The concert began at 7:30 pm and you could feel the expectation in the air. The excitement of the crowd was well warranted, for Kennedy gave an absolutely mesmerizing performance. Highlights of the first half of the programme included Bach's Air on a G String and Kennedy's incomparable performance of The Four Seasons... The second half of the concert was devoted to "shorter pieces" by a variety of composers. He played Gershwin (one Prelude he played twice because, as he put it, the first attempt was "shit"), The Flight of the Bumblebee (flawlessly), Satie's Gymnopedie arranged for violin (and yes, K., it definitely benefitted from the transposition), Ave Maria, and so many more! I had not looked at my watch the entire time, so transfixed was I by the music, but when he finished, I realised that it was nearly 11:30 - we hadn't even felt the passage of time! THe end of the concert was really special and remarkable. Kennedy played some Hendrix, then, in an encore (one of two) he played a piece of his own composition (First class, that!) He ended by leaving the stage to walk among the audience, all the while playing without missing a note! I edged up to where he was walking and stood happily face to face with him as he made his way through the crowd - all of whom were eager to get near to him but very respectful. It was like a meeting of friends. I found this way of ending really wonderful. Kennedy is so completely unpretentious and fun - yet there is no doubt of his virtuosity! Throughout the concert he talked to the audience, making jokes and frequent asides apropos of whatever was happening. He is eminently likable and very funny. Kennedy makes the music come alive, he makes it real and, what music ought to be, enjoyable. His is a true talent, untarnished by affectation. I will never forget this special evening. He made a terrific visit even more memorable and I can only thank him for his music and for staying true to who he is and what he loves. I cannot wait to see him perform here in New York this Autumn!