PARTY OF SCIENCE
This story is dedicated to Leonidas Paraskevas, the owner and founder of “Discothèque Internationale.” With his class and appreciation of culture, he enriched the Washington, DC area from the 1980s through recent past with his knowledge and unique collection of records. I had the pleasure to work with him a number of times in the presentation of music. OM 20 July 2022
A PARTY OF SCIENCE
Slowly they walked in, glancing towards all sides of the room to see if acquaintances were present. Curiosity fed conversation as people began to mingle. I thought to myself, "How peaceful to observe from the piano rather than from a socially-staged encounter."
The party was organized by the Hellenic Society for the Health Sciences. Attending were scientists, their spouses, boyfriends, girlfriends and acquaintances.
Numerous parties have seen me perform, as I have seem them perform. Each party has its personality. The spirit of each varies; in some it is nonexistent. What is a party but an extension of a human multiplied several times?
Here was a gathering of people, mostly of Hellenic descent, who had come to enjoy themselves by listening, and dancing to, music. What my fingers finalized -- my musical thoughts -- many had not expected. One melody triggered another. The music piano evoked response from several when finalized on the piano.
Several came to talk to me, to inquire. Perhaps the music soothed their spirit. Maybe they had to be in a melodic setting to contemplate the unknown. Regardless, they were smiling.
I harbored a feeling of contentment - how else could I describe my satisfaction as people portrayed smiles which were not staged?
The disc jockey began to ply his trade after I finished my performance. Live music replaced by records. Even though the melodies were not being created, the people responded with eagerness to live the life which offers the joy of expression. This expression was manifested through dance, which continued for the next several hours.
It was time to close the room; the party was prematurely terminated. As a parting gesture, I played several pieces on the piano, and people sang along. An expression of spirit through song.
The party ended. Their spirit regenerated, the people began to filter out. A party of science, as it was scientifically (and realistically) a success.
January 31, 1986
Odysseus' Quest 