I’m sorry to do this, but I have not regained my 100% capacity since last week. Truthfully, after last Monday’s rehearsal, my condition went downhill, and I coughed my way through the last seven days. I fully intended to push my way through this evening, but aside from the fact of placing myself in a room full of otherwise healthy people, I am simply concerned that it would not be a fully productive use of our mutual time. (Actually, I have Donna Rossi to thank for the self-realization. We spoke about a separate issue last night, and she said — with love — “You sound awful!”)

I spoke with Matt about it all this morning. His concentration has been on the van der Roost, and agreed that it would not be a good use of time to transfer the entire rehearsal to him. On top of all this, the rehearsals at Pelham are rather inconvenient for many. At this point, it’s better to be proactive, and decide now to cancel the rehearsal.

Claudia knows the communication patterns of many who do not check this site/email accounts regularly, and will reach out individually to those at risk of not learning about this immediately. Upon reading this, please reconfirm the cancellation with friends and neighbors with whom you are close.

Instead of driving to Pelham, please find time this week for at least 1 hour of solid individual practice. If you are willing and able to organize a sectional, please do so. Even just practicing for an additional hour with one other player from your section will be a productive use of time! Especially concentrate on the Bernstein, which is where we need the most work.

Thank you for your understanding. I’ll do what I need to do to be back next week at 100%. See you then, Monday, March 19, at 7:30 pm at Pelham.