And finally I get to my good friend Giovanni who I don't hear from that often but who always has something nice to say to me.

I love playing that type of music, world music, but unfortunately, there's no market for a Paso Doble, or a Strauss waltz anymore. I'm hoping they still appreciate it over there. I feel optimistic whenever I watch Andre Rieu and the crowds he draws in.

John Leslie....one thing I really regret....not having been able to tell him that my chance meeting with him turned my life around. Kick-started my music career, introduced me to French Musette music, fixed my accordions, sold me his custom-made musette accordion for 200 Pounds, got me my first job (in a German Bierkellar in Richmond), and introduced me to his (outgoing) girl friend who I dated for months. Talk about affecting someone's life!

Oh....I did tell him all that when I saw him again 10 years later, but......he didn't even remember me. Then again, he was a master BBC accordionist and an adventurer at the same time. Never did the same thing twice.

Hope you're doing well over there and playing regularly. If I recall you were working as a duo. I listen to a lot of Foster and Allen. He can really make that accordion talk.

Your friend

Mark