Why Bother?

Robin Ralston grew up learning classical piano. Beethoven Sonatas, Chopin Mazurkas, tarantellas, waltzes, all the things that make little girls hate piano (but later appreciate it) were force fed to her until one very important day.  At age 12 she listened, awestruck, to Leo Kottke's 6 and 12 string album, and music suddenly became an inspiration.

Good fortune introduced her to several "old timey" musicians who lived near where she worked in South Gate, California.  She was invited to living room gatherings, listening to greats such as Mel Durham, his brother Bob Durham, Tom Sauber, and the legendary Elizabeth Cotton.

Acoustic music became an integral part of her life for many years until the early 80's and a bout of Devo caused a temporary derailment of musical sensibility. She soon recovered and found once again the joy of great acoustic music, kickstarted by a small concert featuring the music and humor of Bob Kaspar.

For many years, Robin sought out exceptional music.  Her first house concert was well received, and inspired her to continue the tradition.

And thus, Coolwater Concerts was born.

A great deal of work goes into these events, and Robin largely does it herself…from booking the artist to setting up chairs and tables to sending out announcements and invitation to her friends (AKA…'listener base') to writing  copy and taking photographs for this website, more of a vanity page than a marketing device.

So, that is the big why bother…Robin wholeheartedly loves acoustic music of many varieties, continues to take guitar lessons and seek out amazing talent to share with her friends.  She fully realizes she is not one of those amazing talents, but keeps trying anyway.  Don't look for her to be playing Coolwater Ranch anytime soon…she is not nearly good enough.....yet....