Agent Robert Baird attended the APAP Convention in New York City from January 10-13 at the Hilton Towers Hotel. The APAP Conference is the jewel in the crown of Presenters' Conferences each year, the largest Presenters' Conference in the country, and perhaps even the world. It was a whirlwind three days of activity for Robert who, when he wasn't in the Resource Room, was in meetings or at showcases. Ebony & Ivory evoked international interest and Robert is excited about the possibilities of greater exposure for the Duo beyond North America.

On Friday, January 16, 2004, Ebony & Ivory presented a concert in Milton, Ontario for Milton Concert Presentations. Over the years, Milton Concert Presentations (MCP) has brought to Milton major orchestras, chamber groups and soloists. Andrew McIntyre, Chair of the Board of Directors, was a gracious and thoughtful host. From ensuring that all equipment was in place, to recommending a local restaurant, and even escorting the Duo to it, Andrew made the Ebony & Ivory Milton experience a complete delight. The Duo was greeted upon their arrival by Donna Sakuta, Treasurer, who made sure that all was in order for the Duo's sound check. At every turn throughout the evening, there was a Board Member on hand to look after the details: Heather Shoemaker gave a lovely introduction to the Duo and Harvey Shoemaker, Vice-Chair, was on hand to assist as well.

The concert took place in downtown Milton at St. Paul's United Church (built in 1852) and the capacity crowd was bowled over by the music. At the end of the concert, the audience member behind Robert Baird simply voiced his reaction to the concert as "WOW!" After affording the Duo two standing ovations and enjoying a rendition of "Summertime" as an encore, the audience went into the cold winter night with a warm and happy glow. Ebony & Ivory looks forward to returning to Milton.

Sharpen your pencils and get your thinking caps ready! The Ebony & Ivory Crossword Puzzle CONTEST is coming next month. Fun! Educational! Prizes!