A Library? Well, not just any library – The Port Washington Public Library. This Long Island institution is amazing and well known for its wide variety of music programs. Tucked inside is a wonderful lecture/concert hall that can seat about 180 or so. A lovely space with wonderful acoustics. Librarian Tony Traguardo runs a number of musical events throughout the year, and as the final installment for SOUNDSWAP, Simon gave a unique and truly special performance of a casual acoustic set complete with stories!
It was a rainy Friday night in Port Washington and traffic was a bitch. Complicating matters was the fact that the theatre across the street also had a program going on – making parking troublesome. Brother Paul and long-time family friend Eddie Camiolo arrived with Simon’s equipment and readied the room for sound check.
The start of Simon’s set was delayed a bit to allow for people to arrive. At about 7:50 he took the stage to a very warm welcome. This was a LISTENING crowd. Full of fans, curious newcomers and library patrons from all walks of life and from all generations. From song one there was a buzz in the room. This was going to be special. It was much like a master class. Simon would talk a bit about each song before he played. Sometimes it was about what inspired it, or what was going on in his life at the time, or how it evolved, or how it fit into some of his outlook on life. There were funny stories and truly deeply personal and intimate stories. The crowd appreciated his openess and honesty. He played for more than one and a half hours and was spectacular.
Long time Simon fans couldn’t stop raving about how special the evening was. He seemed so relaxed and so in control and truly enjoying himself! I’ve never had so many “smiling” photos to choose from to post!!!
PLEASE be sure to check out a selection of the great shots (posted in the photos section) taken by Winifred Boyd during the event. Thanks Winnie.
Set List: Electric Friend, Comeback, About Love, She Asked Me, Bare Essence, Making Waves, All So Real, Bed of Roses, Leaving This Town, Denial, Time Bomb, Stay, Heal, Still Love, Saving Grace, The Way It Is, Looking Out Looking In, Forever And A Day, I’m The Answer