Duelling Pianos event was amazing
LETTERS
April 28, I had the distinct pleasure of being a participant in the evening entertainment billed as “Duelling Pianos” at Coyote Joe’s bar in Lethbridge. I was with family who had travelled from Toronto, Yellowknife and Chilliwack to be at my son’s graduation from Lethbridge College.
We were looking to unwind after a meal and importantly, as devoted fans, cheer on the Oilers in their game against Anaheim. When we were informed that the sound would not be on for the game due to the entertainment, we were curious as to what was in store. Piano music? This was a bar, not a lounge, right?
Well, we should not have been concerned. We were blown away by the three hours of non-stop playing by skilled entertainers Anna McBryan and Cal Toth!
The audience was asked to note down their favourite tunes which Anna and Cal then proceeded to play ... and not just play! With percussion humming in the background they banged out every tune requested and more on those keys accompanied by some amazing vocals from both these performers! From ’70s to current rock and folk hits including Elton John, Bryan Adams and others, to Rhianna and Lady Gaga, these two versatile performers nailed them all. Amazing vocal renditions from both McBryan and Toth were greeted with enthusiasm with loud appreciation from the largely baby boomer audience. However, my son and daughter and their friend, all young people as well as a few others of their demographic, were also hugely impressed and equally enthusiastic participants. The Oilers game was not forgotten but it certainly wasn’t the main event there that night.
Now, I’m from Yellowknife, a city where people get up and boogie on the dance floor or under the midnight sun, with very little persuasion needed. At Coyote Joe’s, while it seemed like patrons were thoroughly enjoying the music, the dance floor saw only sporadic use. Could it be that they are a bit more shy here in the Deep South?
Here’s hoping that Coyote Joe’s has great success marketing their bar and McBryan and Toth’s performance as a hip happening, rocking music venue, well worth checking out by all ages!
Marie Adams
Yellowknife, N.W.T.