We enjoy our visits to the UC Davis Arboretum. There are acres of flowers, shrubs, herbs and trees. With so much to see and enjoy, it is a popular place for families. Little children can run about and enjoy watching the ducks in the stream. Tours of the gardens are also available.
We were delighted to learn about the summer concert, Around the World in 80 Oaks, which was held on June 12, 2011. My husband and I loved this concert. It was unlike any other, concert in the park, that we had attended. Under the direction of Bob Wren, the Sacramento City College World Music Ensemble, performed music from many of the countries that are home to oaks in the arboretum's collection. This included countries like, Ethiopia, Mexico, and Palestine, amongst several other countries.
The instruments included, violins, a guitar, a saxophone, mandolins, flute, and tambourines, which all blended together harmoniously to create wistful, gentle music that seemed to pay homage to the magnificent oak trees.
The free guided tour walked us through the grove, stopping to hear musical selections related to individual trees. We, the onlookers, walked, hopped or danced along to the next venue.
The weather was perfect, pleasant sunshine and shade under the huge oak trees. Allegra Silberstein, the resident Poet Laureate of the City of Davis, sometimes recited her poems, followed by Bob and the ensemble playing music. On several occasions, Allegra also danced gracefully to the exquisite music.
At times she was joined by another graceful, nimble dancer. At other times, docents or Bob would describe the oak trees, its origins and the nature of the tree.
I had no idea that oak leaves varied so much in appearance. This visit was certainly a learning experience and a renewed appreciation of the oak trees.
The pictures below were captured on an iPhone. I do hope you get a feel for this wonderful concert, via these images. Maybe your arboretum also offers interesting and informative resources. If you attended this concert and would like to share your pictures, please do contact me.
