Gershwin Prize Winners

Along one of the hallways of the Library of Congress Jefferson Building is the Coolidge Auditorium. We've been there many times for a variety of events and lectures that are usually free and open to the public. The graceful archways also serve as a great background for the posters that are on display every so many feet. This year the Billy Joel poster was added to the space as the 2014 Gershwin Prize Winner. This was also an artist that we got to see perform for free at Constitution Hall last year. Other winners include Paul Simon, Hal David and Burt Bacharach, Stevie Wonder, Paul McCartney, and Carole King. They are all so very familiar to me, but I didn't get to see any of the others in concert. Every once in a while the employees get a chance to attend events to help fill the seats. I always try to take advantage of those rare opportunities. They don't happen that often, but we are always glad when we go. So when I walk the halls on an afternoon break it's a nice reminder to see the past recipients. I wonder who it will be this year? But more importantly, will I get to go?

Billy Joel Gershwin Prize for Popular Song Event

Just the other day I was lamenting the fact that we haven't had an opportunity to attend a Library event that showcased some really interesting artists. Every once in a while an invitation is extended to employees for special affairs. Last week an email was sent out about the upcoming Billy Joel Gershwin Award Ceremony that is being held at Constitution Hall. Anyone interested could respond back and be placed in a lottery of sorts. This morning the return email was disappointing, but it said after the stage was set today, another round of tickets would become available for "side stage" seats. You could say I hit the jackpot?! Anyway, my husband and I will be attending the event tomorrow evening. I picked my tickets up from the events office before lunch. Since we have never been to this hall, it will be fun to explore the place and watch and see who files in. The show will be taped for PBS and I am guessing the entertainment will be more than interesting. This sort of thing never happened in my thirty year health care career in Milwaukee. Uptown Girl anyone?