My ‘no David Garrett concerts in 2015’ streak, and sadness, came to a glorious end as soon as I left my home near Cleveland, Ohio, and headed northeast toward Toronto. Since I am still not medically cleared for overseas travel, I had my heart set on attending this show, some way or another.

Garrett, opening with his signature entrance playing Led Zeppelin’s ‘Kashmir’, once again brought goosebumps to my skin, and tears to my eyes. Luckily I was not wearing makeup – I did not need it because the adrenaline rush that evening put enough color in my face – or the tears might have made an even bigger mess of me.

Toronto’s Roy Thomson Hall packed in for a night of Garrett’s greatest hits, which were executed by Garrett with smooth energetic precision. Crossover hits like ‘Dueling Banjos’ and others brought the crowd to their feet for several standing ovations. The sight was quite a thrill for Garrett, as he placed his hand over his heart with humble thanks.

As a native Western New Yorker, I was excited to hear Garrett perform ‘Sabre Dance’ once again.  I’m certain it was just as exciting for several Buffalo Sabres hockey fans (ME! ME!) as well.

A lucky fan was chosen to sit with Garrett onstage for a cozy rendition of ‘I’ll Stand By You’. Thankfully it wasn’t me. Even though I was hoping, and even wore an ORG*SM shirt just like the one he has been seen wearing numerous times on stage, when he came up the aisle near where I was seated, I thought for certain my heart was going to literally explode, or possibly faint. I would not have had the courage to go onstage wearing THE shirt which attracted many a fan attention when Garrett wore it.

It sure was fun watching a few expressions as some female fans eyeballed my shirt while I was in line at the merchandise table after the show though! Yes, I am bold and daring. Especially when I’m super nervous. I do things I wouldn’t normally do when I’m excited and nervous. That is one of my major faults, unfortunately.  I’M SORRY!   Two people to whom I owe this apology know who they are.

Garrett was accompanied by his band members, who have toured with him for several years now, and an outstanding 34 piece orchestra. Long time friend and collaborative colleague, Franck van der Heijden, conducted the orchestra and played his guitar for the entirety of the program. Marcus Wolf, also on guitar, came forward with phenomenal riffs during the band’s performance of ACDC’s ‘Highway To Hell’. Jeff Lipstein on drums, Jeff Allen on bass guitar, and John Haywood on piano completed a perfect evening of unstoppable foot tapping enjoyment.

David Garrett and band is a must listen. Especially live. There is truly no other musical experience like it. If you’ve never listened to classical music before, his crossover music will definitely open your ears, and lift your heart and soul to stratospheric levels.