Every once in a while John would come up to Toronto with a band to do a concert. I remember seeing him over 23 years ago at York University. He did a long solo segment of fiddle, stepdance, hambone, general goofy monologue that had me totally mezmorised. Here was a brilliant performer who was so accomplished and yet eccentric enough to know not to take it all too seriously. Someone who knew how to have so much fun with the music he played and the people he was with - this is what strikes me as being so special about John Hartford. I can't help but laugh with joy when I listen to his recorded ramblings about Ed Haley, or "Rocky Top" on the Retrograss CD. I will be mindful of his great spirit of life as I continue to listen to his recordings and learn some of the tunes he played. Take a bow! Standing Ovation!