Posted by John on June 11, 101 at 04:56:50:
It must've been around 16 or 17 years ago that I took my family to the Ark in Ann Arbor to see John perform. Paul was 10 and Matt and Glenn 8. I've loved John's music since the early 70's and wanted the kids to experience seeing a REAL LIVE MUSICIAN for their 1st encounter with performing arts. The Ark is a small venue, at that time, pillows on the floor around the stage and chairs behind them, for the less brave. My wife was concerned that the boys were too young to behave without close supervision. (20 feet from a potentially scolding parent). I told her I'd watch them and jerk them out of the front row if they misbehaved in any manner. I didn't have to be concerned from the time John and Roy hit the stage...the magic took over as the boys were mesmerized by the sheer fun of being RIGHT THERE!!! It is one of my fondest memories of their childhood; to see the effect of art on young children, the absolute awe mixed with joy in their faces throughout the evening. Thank you, John Hartford for so many wonderful memories, but especially this one.