Super productive and inspiring first rehearsal in San Diego with the southern-most members of the ensemble – Mark Dresser, Kjell Nordeson, Michael Dessen, Nicole Mitchell – plus a visit with Mr. Golia up in Valencia. Apparently I’m not the first person to ask Vinny if I can come over and see just what all his instruments can do….. apparently, the answer is, a lot. New information – I prefer the wood contralto clarinet to the metal one, the bass flute is just as gorgeous as I remembered it, and the Basset horn is really an odd and interesting character.