Acoustic Campfire at the Walker

Last December Mila, a professional female vocal ensemble, was scheduled to play in an upstairs room at the Unity Church in St. Paul. As the start time approached it became obvious that the room was too small for the burgeoning crowd clad in voluminous winter coats. The performance had been highlighted on MPR's Art Hounds broadcast and the resulting crowd exceeded all expectations.

Those thick winter coats became necessary as the audience (myself included) trooped down to the sanctuary. The large, vaulted space hadn't been heated so the air was chilly. The room was laden with seasonal greenery and Mila's haunting Eastern European harmonies blended beautifully into the crisp, fir-scented air.

But it's summer! you say. Why are you telling us about an event from last winter?

Because I want you to know what to expect from Mila's performance at the Walker Art Center this Thursday. Be prepared for strong voices, dark harmonies and sounds unlike any present in Western music. Expect goosebumps to prickle on your arm as the group's melismatic tones and winding meter call forth the sunset. Mila's performances are spiritual experiences transcending time and place and are by no means to be missed.

The Walker's Acoustic Campfire starts at 8:00 pm and runs until 9:30 pm. The event is free to attend and highly recommended.

This lovely friend of mine won't be offering pizza on Thursday night but her musical delivery will top any pie