Paul Winter, Stephen Katz and a 12 String Guitar
About 6 years ago I was listening to the radio in my art studio and heard that the Paul Winter Consort was going to be playing that night in Fort Collins. I have loved Paul Winter since early college, so I called hoping that there were some tickets left. The woman on the phone said I was in luck, there were two. One was front row center, and would I like it?
As I was walking out the door to head to the concert my friend Mystie called about some art project, and I said, “I can’t talk know, I’m heading to see Paul Winter”. She said, “oh, his cellist, Stephen Katz, is a friend of mine and I’m having breakfast with him tomorrow.” I told her there was one more ticket available for the concert and that she should come with me. So, she got the ticket and we were on our way.
The concert was amazing. I had the Paul Winter Consort playing just for me, and was swept away by the music. Then at intermission we got a note from Stephen that we could come back stage after the Concert. So the second half, I sat there even more excited knowing that I would soon be meeting Paul Winter – and Mystie’s friend Stephen!
Well, the meeting was wonderful. Paul was great and Stephen invited me to join them for breakfast the next day.
The following day, I got to spend some time with Stephen, who is a sweet and gentle soul. I heard some of his own amazing cello music, and was so inspired. My heart was so full of love for the music yet rather sad too.
You see I have been playing guitar since I was 12 years old, but had this old 12 string guitar that was practically impossible to play. So, I pretty much gave it up. I didn’t think I could play, nor did I feel I had an aptitude for music, as much as I loved it.
So on the way home with my Mystie, I was telling her (more like whining to her) that I so loved music but just had this old guitar and really couldn’t play it. She said to me, “Diane, why don’t you get yourself a nice guitar”? I just said, “oh, that’s a good idea”.
So a week later, I walked into Wildwood Guitars and picked up a beautiful Taylor 12 string guitar, sat down, and started playing it like I had been playing all my life. I couldn’t believe it. So, I took home a beautiful new guitar and started playing and writing songs with the enthusiasm of a child discovering a new skill she didn’t even know she had.
Now, 6 years later, I have written 27 songs, am working on a CD, and have done several concerts including my first house concert on January 30th.. The full circle to this story is that Mystie was at my concert, where I played my song: 12 sting guitar, which is about her and this story. The other amazing part is that Mystie said the Stephen was in town, and that he was having a house concert on Thursday, and asked if I wanted to go. So, I got to see Stephen again and hear him playing his incredible Flying Pizzacato cello style and was again inspired. For he pushes the boundaries of what can be one with the cello and is exploring new territory. He is for me inspirational on many levels as he brings his heart and soul and love and expresses it through his music and life.
I am so grateful for all my teachers and inspirational friends. I believe are all here so share the best was can be and to learn from and inspire each other.
Visit Stephen at: http://www.stephenkatzmusic.com
