Editor’s Note: Behind the Scenes

Whether we go to a concert at a big stadium or catch a show at a local venue, we are going for a good time. To enjoy the music. To see our favorite band. To be in the moment. I suppose if the musicians are doing their job, we become lost in the music and don’t even consider what all goes into making it happen — the practicalities. We just focus on the experience.

For me, I don’t think of what goes on behind the scenes that often. Do you? Oh, every once in a while, I’ll wonder about how much the group had to practice to sound so tight or notice the lighting, if it’s out of the ordinary. And even though I’m a musician, I don’t really consider how the instruments were created and what their journey includes to actually make it onto the stage, entertaining me, out there in the audience.

Well, we’ve done just that. Misty Milioto pulls the curtain back on the creative process to reveal how an instrument is created — what goes into the sourcing of the materials, the artistry in shaping the instrument, the testing of it to make sure it’s pitch perfect. Then she moves on to what happens when the instrument leaves the workshop and goes into the hands of the musician. It’s truly fascinating and a look that most don’t have, unless they’re in the music industry.

Also in this issue, Melanie Warner Spencer explores unusual locales for weddings. Beyond the traditional reception hall, Spencer finds unique spots across Acadiana for couples to share their nuptials and celebrate, including a castle, a mansion and a lovely grove, to name a few.

Cheers!