As far back as I can remember, my most vivid visual image from opera is the picturesque café made famous during Act II of Puccini's La Bohème, the iconic Café Momus.

Yet beyond the image of the café itself, I marvel at the equally colorful assortment of free-spirited Bohemian artists, poets and musicians who congregate there, no doubt absorbed in lively artistic conversation that I suspect is every bit as potent as the ubiquitous bottles of French Bordeaux decorating the tables.      

There is, to be sure, a certain warmth and comfort that radiates from such a gathering place, and this is the image I envision for this website: a place where a small but passionate core of like-minded individuals may get together — as do Rudolfo, Marcello, Colline and Schaunard — to engage in stimulating artistic conversation and share provocative opinions. 

I believe we have such a community here in Central New York.  It may be a long way from the Latin Quarter in Paris, but if you attend concerts here in town chances are good you've experienced gatherings of like-minded people at any number of local Cafés Momus, such as the Crouse-Hinds Theater, where I've gotten to know many of you over the course of several SSO Pre-Concert Talks. 

CNY Café Momus is a place where like-minded individuals both within and beyond Central New York may come together — tutti ensemble — and experience, explore and reflect upon the beautiful and mysterious world of music that surrounds us.  Whether you're a casual concert goer, a seasoned veteran or a complete novice, if you have an opinion you're willing to share about a listening experience you've got something of value to contribute at our café – and you're always welcome here. 

We're open 24/7.  Grab a glass of whatever it is you're having, and come join us at blog.cnycafemomus.com.

DA