Rain and a Prom

Friday 40 lengths as usual (and not in the nude Graeme!) Terrific thunderstorm at lunchtime - the heavens were black. Rain poured into the study room and eventually the light fitting fell down. Water everywhere. Once the rain stopped I got on the roof to find a lake and gullies blocked. I managed to clear enough to stop the flood into the building. Carpet very wet seems to be the only problem but the ceiling may be waterlogged. Nobody came to clear the other gullies and get rid of the lake as there were problems all over Wandsworth with 2 libraries closed with flooded basements. To the pub to find it closed so we went to Flanagans opposite Battersea Dogs and cats home where I enjoyed a Guinness. Phillip and Kasmyn did not appear - it was their leaving do! Phillip actually at Liverpool University! Herbert-Jan (from Holland) who we now call Eric arrived so we got the bus to the Albert Hall and prommed. BBC National orchestra of Wales conducted by the inspiring Thierry Fischer form Switzerland. Henri Dutilleux Shados of time a colourful piece with 3 Eton college choristers. Ravel Concerto for the left hand beautifully played and a lovely Ravel Pavane as an encore. Much amusement at the pianist Roger Murano shaking his right hand out to play the encore! Berlioz Symphonie fantastique given a lively performance and I found standing not a problem as there was space despite a stage in the middle of the prom. Saw Marcus server at cathedral and John East getting off the 52 bus which came immediately! Lucky to get train home as they were disrupted by the floods. Enjoyed it and so did Eric! I had not prommed for many years and was surprised to see bags and drinks allowed in the prom! What a wonderful audience they are - so quiet! Eric asked me what I thought about when listening - I said memories and emotions and sometimes pictures! I am often very moved by great music.