MARIN ARTS & CULTURE 15
has allowed her to call on them for the benefit of Musica Marin. They come to play in the homes of patrons who open their living rooms to small numbers of people willing to pay for the privilege of a close intimate experience with chamber music.
I can tell you from firsthand experience, it is thrilling to be just feet away from a Metropolitan Opera award-winning mezzo soprano performing a duet with Ruth on the viola. You’re close enough to reach out and touch them. Without amplification, the sound is pure. You can ask questions between, before and after numbers; you feel a part of the experience.
Ruth’s philosophy: “Music adds beauty to life. It takes away from its ugliness. It is transformational. Music provides warmth, a memory, even an internal vibrational change. Music is one of the most powerful forces in the world.” She loves being “alone” with the composer while practicing, trying to interpret what was on their minds, staying true to their intent, and conversing with them through the centuries.
Musica Marin benefits young people. The San Francisco Boys Chorus and winner of the Merola Program have been recent beneficiaries. Her ultimate goal is to have her concerts lead to a two or three-day Musical Festival. She has plans to partner with the Golden Gate Opera and has collaborated with the Mill Valley Film Festival.
Should you wish to become involved with or attend on of Ruth’s salons, she can be reached at
www.musicamarin.org.