As usual, internet time is at a premium, so I´ll try to keep this short and sweet.

Today the orchestra heads to Valencia, after playing at the International Festival of Music and Dance at Ubeda last night. Ubeda is a small town in the province of Jaen--small enough that *all* of the stores close at 2 for siesta. We´ve been used to at least a few tourist shops remaining open, so finding lunch yesterday when rehearsal ended at 3 was a challenge. Luckily there were a few tapas places open and much of the orchestra took advantage of this uniquely Spanish institution where you order a drink and they bring you a tapas, or appetizer, on the house.
The concert itself was a great experience. We had been moved inside a church, which was a bit of a squeeze, but also a stunning location. I´ve never stored my stuff in a dressing room that looked like it was built during the Renaissance. There was a good crowd and since there were seats on both sides of the orchestra, I felt like I was really connected to the audience. The biggest hit of the night was once again "La Virgen de la Macarena," a short Spanish piece that features our tour soloist Martin Hodel.

A few words about our past locations--we came to Ubeda after spending an afternoon in Granada. *That* was an amazing city. After a walk from the top of the "Muslim Quarter" to the Cathedral, through squares and colorful alleyways, we were turned loose for lunch and shopping. Then came the real highlight--a guided tour of the famous Alhambra.
Even if I had more than four minutes of internet time left, it would not be enough to put the Alhambra into words. The fortress itself is quite impressive, with some nice views of the city, but it is the gardens that make the hill of the Alhambra spectacular. We came at the perfect time of year because almost everything is in bloom, including dozens upon dozens of roses. All I can say is that I felt like a character in a fairy tale, or maybe the Arabian Nights. I´m very grateful to have been there.

My time´s up so that´s all for now!