My friend, Mark Dvorak

Last night I went to see a concert at the Old Town School of Folk Music. The opening act was my longtime time friend, Mark Dvorak. The headliner was the great Bonnie Koloc, whose bass player on the gig was another friend of mine, Al Erich. Mark and I have known each other since I started hanging around the school about 1991. He and I have played and sung old tunes and originals together at gigs, between classes at the school, and over cups of coffee.

I was way up in the balcony. I didn’t have a ticket; I was standing along the back wall. So, Mark was very far away on stage.  But during his half hour set, I don’t think I ever saw him more clearly. Or at least, his musical artistry. Within that half hour he made the audience laugh, think, and sing along, all to original songs of his. Taking on topics ranging from aging, to immigration, to January 6, Mark held them all with his trademark thoughtfulness. His warmth and sense of inclusion on stage have always been a marvel to me. And I was so glad to have seen it again last night. It was just a good reminder to me that one voice, one instrument, and some beautiful lyrics are sometimes all you ever need. Thank you, my friend.