From Mussorgsky's "Pictures at an Exhibition,"
At His First Concert
With the University of Kentucky Symphony Orchestra
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Yeah, it was a big night for Big Owl and Kathie
and all the friends and fans of Christopher Bettler.
For his first concert with the University of Kentucky Orchestra,
Christopher was chosen to play one of the most famous solo parts
in all the orchestral repertoire for tuba—
the "Bydlo" solo from Modest Mussorgsky's
"Pictures at an Exhibition."
See, not only is it beautiful, but it's very difficult,
because it is pitched really high.
Christopher played it on his trusty Yamaha F tuba...
Here are Susan, Kathie, and Betsy before the concert.
Betsy is very proud of her new black hood.
Christopher arrives at the concert hall,
closely followed by one of his fans.
Big Owl calls them "groupies."
Everyone is proud to be seen with Christopher before the concert.
Betsy is exceptionally proud, even though she is short.
Christopher takes his place in the brass section.
The picture is blurry because Big Owl was filled with fatherly emotion.
Also, no flash was allowed, and Big Owl couldn't hold still very long.
After the concert, the conductor recognized the soloists, and everyone applauded.
Once again, Big Owl was so filled with emotion that he couldn't hold the camera still.
Big Owl is Christopher's father, and taught him everything he knows about music
(well, practically everything).
Christopher came out into the auditorium to say hello to his fans.
Betsy was enchanted—you can tell by her bright red devil eyes.
Christopher was anxious to get to Carrie, his number one fan.
He is enchanted with her—see his bright red devil eyes?
Kathie takes advantage of the general excitement and euphoria
to point out that Betsy has some gray hair.
Betsy may or may not appreciate this.
She has bright red devil eyes.
Christopher is congratulated by several fellow members
of the UK tuba studio.
When the excitement dies down,
Christopher quickly returns to his office to put his instruments away.
My, he certainly has a large mute.
Back in the parking lot after changing out of his tuxedo,
Christopher checks out the trunk of Susan's car.
Susan is enchanted—you can tell by her red devil eyes.
Christopher was hungry, so everyone went to Ramsey's
for a post-concert meal and celebration (see the wine glasses?).
Susan is still enchanted—see her red devil eyes?
Big Owl is still proud, but you can't see him,
because he is taking the pictures.
Also, Big Owl has now lost more than twelve pounds.
And he doesn't even have red devil eyes.
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