tis the season... with soundtrack

This weekend shoppers stumbled up Fillmore St. to the sounds of a lone trumpet. Make that two. And a saxophone. And a handful of upright basses...

It was the weekend of the "Fillmore Holiday Stroll," business-owners' attempt to lure holiday shoppers to the neighborhood. (Judging by the number of people out and about, it seemed to be working.) Five different jazz combos were serenading the crowds at intervals from Post to Jackson St. (maybe further). I don't know whether the added ambiance increases sales (I found myself suddenly wanting a large cup of coffee, if that counts), but I thought it was a very nice touch and spent some time loitering and listening on my way home.

diversion

Stage of the San Francisco Opera House, as seen from the top of the uppermost balcony. (Performers onstage in this photo would appear about a centimeter tall.)

This building is amazing: massive, solid, labyrinthine, full of interesting details...lights, doorknobs, carpet. Hopefully I'll have more photos in the future.