Inspiration from The Big Apple

This wonderful Paul Cox original is a representation of our inspiration and joy for this Rach and Bach Gala Concert!  Paul Cox is a celebrated illustrator. He graduated from the Royal College of Art in 1982 and since then has worked as a freelance illustrator and painter, having published his creations in newspapers and magazines on both sides of the Atlantic.

One of the greatest bars in New York City is the Monkey Bar at the Hotel Elysée. The hotel has an impressive history and fans have included Tennessee Williams who lived at the hotel for the last 15 years of his life. His particular room was called “The Sunset Suite." Some still believe he haunts the suite as complaints of typing late at night occur to this day. Paul Cox created this watercolor based on the Monkey Bar menu which was his first American commission.  Quinn wanted to commemorate the Paul Cox menu cover by superimposing his and Michael’s faces in their own version of the artwork. The art is as happy as happy can be. It depicts two monkeys in “white tie” on a blustery evening in New York likely post-concert. The lights are vibrant and there is energy in the air.

On a recent visit to New York in the middle of sweltering July, The Elysée offered massively good rates. We splurged and stayed at the hotel where we were allowed to see the “Horowitz” Presidential suite. We must have been channeling the spirit of Horowitz, as we had great piano lessons with the extraordinarily talented teacher, Steven Mann. We were inspired to create the gala, Rach & Bach, for the English-Speaking Union featuring the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra.