Some months ago, in a moment that at a certain point I thought was one of weakness - or maybe madness, I agreed to be Master of Ceremonies and Auctioneer for the benefit that Midwest Young Artists hold annually at this time of year. Well the moment arrived yesterday and the morning after I am now reporting that the whole thing was not a mistake at all - I really enjoyed myself and got through my debut in this role with people threatening to ask me to do it again.  For me that is quite something! I now know first hand what it feels like for it even to be suggested that I might be asked back. Maybe in my dotage I will do this more often - it was fun. And I do it for free.Typically professional auctioneers are employed for this kind if thing. They cost real money - believe me! I have seen a number of them in action and they are really good. No doubt I was a pallid imitation - but I managed to talk the talk and the hands went up. No problem!

MYA is a remarkable institution led and inspired by a unique character Allan Dennis. He has a dedicated board and a small staff - but above all a remarkable collection of young people who populate the various ensembles, chamber groups, orchestras bands etc that provide a multiplicity of thrilling activities for young musicians of all ages and levels. The best are very good indeed as was displayed last night by a variety of chamber groups playing String Quartets in the entrace lobby as we arrived, and the Schubert Trout Quintet in the silent auction room. We then had wind and brass ensembles during the rest of the evening between speeches and delicious food and my "performance" And the grand finale was the Big Band playing through to midnight. A great evening and a successful fund raiser most certainly.