Earlier this month we had the incredible joy and privilege of welcoming baroque violinist Fiona Hughes to Farmata. Fiona regularly plays with some of the world’s best ensembles in beautiful venues like Boston’s Symphony Hall. So how was it for her to come to Fair Grove and play for us in the barn? We asked her, and here’s what she shared:

“Farmata, how I love you!
The most restorative things in the world often happen quietly, in out of the way places. I know Steuart and Michelle well enough to know that a concert in their barn will be something special. But how very special, I did not expect. Their approach transforms how one thinks of music, of everyday life, of food and the blessings we all share.
Arriving by car through the rolling Missouri hills, I beheld a contented pig toddling around behind the fence, the brick floor and artistically finished barn walls, tasteful repurposed architectural detail, and farm and garden work in springtime mode, all with a child's sweet voice lending cheer to preparations for the coming event.
Lent is a time of recollection, reflection, and resolution to improve one's life. Before, during, and after our performance of Rosary Sonatas I felt a more real connection than I usually do to the souls in the audience, to the natural world, to the music itself.
Michelle's elegant, simple preparation of bread and wine was such a meaningful way to round off the event. Steuart's brilliant musicianship (on gamba for this) is well supported by his generous personable way of interacting with his audience.
I hope to return to beloved Farmata!”
Fiona Hughes

Here are a few photos and a short clip of Fiona and Steuart’s performance in the barn:

Farmata, how I love you!

building an audience