08/26/2025
In a word: MAGIC ✨💫 Every once in a while, the stars align and things just fall into place in a beautiful way. On Sunday 8/10, I had the pleasure of opening for Christine Ebersole and Billy Stritch at Town Hall. I performed two songs from my album, and then shared my ORIGINAL SONG “Knock On Wood” – you could hear a pin drop by the time I finished. The audience response was incredible, and I walked off stage to see Christine & Billy applauding me in the wings. I couldn’t believe it! I was on Cloud 9 (or 10? 11?). BUT WAIT it gets better – I got to join the audience and witness these two artists (still) at the top of their game create pure magic on stage. AND THEN, in the middle of their set, Christine stops and says, “I need to take a moment to thank Brian Calhoon,” (she said my name!!) “In addition to doing that [gesturing to the marimba], he’s also the proprietor of our small hotel with a wishing well that we were just singing about.” My jaw is on the floor while she and Billy go on about how sweet we were for carrying their luggage up to their rooms and complimenting my husband’s baking. Time stood still. It was a full circle moment where I realized all of my identities (musician, innkeeper, husband, etc) could exist together, be seen and celebrated. To meet Christine and Billy, two powerhouse performers who I have watched and idolized and adored over the years – I can’t stop pinching myself. They couldn’t have been sweeter, and I don’t know how to thank them for gracing us with their presence and music, and perhaps introducing us to Brasswood’s new theme song? “There’s a small hotel with a wishing well…” (look it up!)
And I cannot say this enough: None of this would have happened if it wasn’t for MARK CORTALE and his phenomenal Town Hall series bringing unforgettable concerts to Ptown year after year. Huge thanks to my brother Dave for helping me move the marimba, and the entire village that has become our Brasswood family.
