Annum Novum Faustum Felicem – Happy New Year MARCH to all of our friends!
The Ancient Romans had it right … the fun starts this month!
Dear friends of PPI,
If the return of “normal Portland weather” earlier this week may have dampened your mood, let the blazing sunshine and blue skies this morning confirm that sad and soggy conditions are always temporary.
At the PPI office (in the words of the ever-quotable Bill Crane) we are full of joy, because March is around the corner, and with it comes some highly-anticipated fun and games. Did you know that the ancient Roman calendar dismissed January and February completely because they didn’t produce any harvest, and considered March the first month of the year? Well, we say annum novum faustum felicem to that … and want to share with you the myriad ways in which PPI is making merry in the month ahead!
First, the countdown to Filippo Gorini’s residency is finally over. He arrives tomorrow (!!!) and if you haven’t peeked at his jam-packed Oregon agenda yet, I urge you to do so this very minute. Circle those dates, corral your friends and make a morning, an afternoon, an evening, a daytrip to the beach or a weekend in Pendleton out of it! (And if you’re physically or geographically challenged, turn on your radio!)
Then, while you’re high on the joy of planning your next piano outing, channel some sporting-world energy and play our frolicsome version of March Madness, now also known as Piano Madness! (All the details are on the website.) Dreamed up by PPI Board member Tony Greiner, this monthlong challenge to determine our audience’s favorite popular piano piece will culminate in an full-scale piano celebration on International Piano Day (the 88th day of the year), hosted by Portland powerhouse Yoko Greeney and SoundsTruckNW. The cherry on top? Filippo will play the winning piece from the Piano Madness challenge during his performance in Portland’s living room.
Piano music in all corners of the state? Check!
Opportunities for Oregonians across the board to hear a dazzling performer? Check!
Ways to have fun and participate regardless of geographical or physical challenges? Check!
Your own opportunities to play and learn? Check, check!
We think it sounds like a party! Ad vestram salutem!
PS: Have you seen Willamette Week’s Spring Arts Guide yet? It came out yesterday and we think page 33 is particularly lovely. Go grab a copy if you’re out and about. Here’s a map of all their blue boxes at indoor and outdoor locations.
