Sunday Salon: Songs and Memories from the Parlor

Our “Music from the Parlor” concert made the paper this week! Did you know that before the victrola in 1906 (or even the radio, which wasn’t invented until the 1890s) people shared the new music of their day with performances in their own living rooms or parlors? If you have seen a Jane Austen movie you know what I am talking about! Sometimes they were called “Old Folks Concerts” and were performed in period and “old fashioned” dress - which is why I took the opportunity to wear my tufted gown! The program honored the music and community that would have gathered in the historic structure - if the walls could talk! SMUSD alums and musical talents - Paige Flores ‘23 and Hunter Modean ‘21 - performed on the program as well! Hunter is the grandson of former San Marino Mayor Gene Dryden who was appointed by the School Board in 2010 to chair “The Preservation of the Michael White Adobe” committee. Hunter has also been involved in the Adobe, building a replica model which he presented to the San Marino Historical Society which resides in the Adobe.

I love my proclamation from Assemblyman Mike Fong which states: “On behalf of the California State Assembly, it is my privilege to present you with this certificate of recognition in honor of ‘Music from the Parlour’. I commend your efforts to bring the community together through arts and music. Thank you for creating a positive and thriving future for generations to come.”

Many thanks to the other dignitaries that supported the event - Vice Mayor of San Marino, Steven Huang, and the School Board President of San Marino Unified School District, Shelley Ryan. Marla Felber, FoMWA President, organized the day with Stacy Brightman and their amazing Board! PC: Raymond Kwon