. . "5"^^ . "2016-11-23T00:00:00"^^ . "That overwhelming feeling from being part of a wedding was both exhilarating and intoxicating.\n\nIt was derived, not from the consumption of alcohol, but simply from being part of the ambiance of two people so madly in love with each other that they chose to solidify their lifelong commitment to each other.\n\nAlthough my part was merely a supporting role, since I officiated it, the gaze that the couple had as they recited the wedding vows, echoed the same burning passion within mine for the one I would forever call My Beloved!\n\nOnce all the revelry was done, the euphoria was still so compellingly present that I needed to find an avenue wherein I could experience both solace and solitude - to be lost in thought and emotion. \n\nOf course, this venue would have to be appropriately suited to a man wearing a haute couture tuxedo.\n\nThat venue would be the Phoenix Symphony.\n\nAnd what a treat this would be for me. Today's performance would highlight the works of John Corigliano and Antonin Dvorak.\n\nJohn Corigliano's Symphony No. 1, which memorializes the feelings of loss that he felt for his friends that passed away due to the AIDS epidemic, was powerfully delivered by the Phoenix Symphony. Each and every nuance, leading up to the denouement, was wonderfully executed.\n\nThen Mark Kosower, guest Cellist, performed Dvorak's Cello Concerto with great aplomb. His facial expressions evoked the emotions that Dvorak embedded into his music when he chose such a somber instrument as the focal point of this piece.\n\nSo entrancing was this evening's performance that when everything had concluded; I sat down wondering why it all had to end.\n\nBut, joy filled my heart once I began the trek home, knowing that the joy and love of my life, who sleeps in our bed; has made our love affair a never-ending symphony!"^^ . "13"^^ . . "15"^^ . "8"^^ .