The accompanist

[vaneramos]

Garlic mustard, Alliaria officinalis

At University of Guelph Choir concert several weeks ago, I remembered the accompanist is Betty Maher, a member of my old church. Danny and I passed her in the hall during intermission. She looked right through me. I'm used to church people turning and walking the other direction. I didn't worry.

Until last week. The Rainbow Chorus's usual accompanist is attending a wedding this weekend, so Alison recommended someone else to our director. It was Betty, who accepted enthusiastically.

When Bob told me, I asked, "Did you know she's an evangelical Christian?"

Betty was always eccentric. In a congregation all about Jesus, Betty's life was all about music.

I considered keeping to myself, but Bob said I should speak to her. Apparently she understood what kind of choir this is.

During Wednesday night's practice break, I took a deep breath and went over. She turned with a welcoming smile. We chatted amiably about the choir for a few minutes.

This morning at Guelph Farmer's Market someone came up behind Danny and me, and said hello. It was Betty. She had her son in tow. I introduced her to Danny and we conversed before parting ways.

"See you tonight," we said.