With Natalie Merchant

It was amazing to play with the great Natalie Merchant at Levon Helm Studios in Woodstock last week! I played two nights, benefits for victims of domestic abuse, with Natalie and other incredible musicians. This was my first live experience with Natalie. Previously, I played on her album Butterfly and her contribution to the Carnegie Hall Lullaby Project.

In the photo above (by Bahram Foroughi) is, from right: Amy Helm, Gail Dorsey from Bowie’s band (an incredible singer herself), Natalie Merchant, Dan Littleton on guitar, me on cello and Olivier Manchon on viola. Not seen are Megan Gould and Karen Waltuch on violin. Other amazing artists included Martha Wainright and Katie from the B52’s. And a big wow- Charley Drayton on drums from Dylan’s band, The Rolling Stones, etc.

A very inspiring experience to work with these incredible artists, in such a great venue with so much history.

Their songs are still sounding in my ears one week later.