Greetings from Montecatini & Beyond

Internet access since Cremona has been difficult. Everything is going very, very well. We had our first concert last night in Lucca. We arrived from Cremona around 3PM and since it is soooo hot, the kids (and the adults) were ecstatic to find the swimming pool. We were able to swim and relax for an hour or two before we had to load up the bus for Lucca. The Festival had provided a van and driver to take all of the instruments and concert dress to the concert venue. Good thing as the temperture has taken some of the spring from our step. We rented the bikes (Thank you Greg K) and rode around the city wall and then the kids were free to find their favorite trattoria (no fast food allowed!). We regrouped at the Chiesa San Giovanna for a quick rehearsal before our concert. The Vivaldi quartet played outside in the piazza to help attract a crowd and many people listened, clapped and then came inside for the concert. The acoustics in the church were unbelievable! The sound would last quite strong for 3-4 seconds after a big chord or ending. The audience loved us and there was a standing ovation at the end. Camerata bought everybody gelato and we walked back to the waiting (air conditioned!) bus. A VERY GOOD NIGHT FOR OUR TEAM.
Today we had a late breakfast and drove to Pisa. We spent two hours visiting the cathedral, the babtistry and taking the typical holding up the tower pics. When we got back on the bus I told them to be quiet and listen and then I told them that I could hear the swimming pool calling all of their names. The kids are back at the pool or sleeping. Some are exploring the Alta Citta (old city) on the top of the hill. We have our second concert tonight at the Terme Tettucio - which are old Roman ruins around a thermal bath. Monticatini is a very nice city. The area we are staying is was built around the 1920's as a spa town. The kids are impressed with our hotel as it is quite nice with beautiful grounds directly accross from the Tettucio.
The Festival staff, the hotel clerks and even the bus driver are commenting on how great the kids are. They are all cooperating so nicely and all pitching in to help when needed. There are no whiners in the group! The heat has been a challenge, but we are slowly adjusting and the pool is a Godsend. Gerry will download pics to the picture site soon.
The kids are learning a lot about spirit, teamwork, hardwork, patience and support of each other. So far - everything is bellissimo!
CC