Why Seeing Chris Botti at Jimmy’s Jazz Club Was the Best Yet

There’s something special about seeing a favorite artist live, and for us, that’s Chris Botti. What started years ago with the purchase of one CD (yes, we’re old school like that) has turned into a bit of an obsession. His shows are always a mix of incredible music, stories, and humor, plus he has a way of showcasing the talent of the artists who perform alongside him.

This summer, we saw him for the third time, but for the first time in the U.S., at Jimmy’s Jazz & Blues Club in downtown Portsmouth, NH. And let me just say, it was the best venue yet. My husband actually gets the credit for this date night. He spotted the tickets as soon as they went on sale and secretly bought them, planning a surprise. A couple of weeks later, I stumbled across the listing and said, “Hey, we should go see Chris Botti again.” Little did I know, the plan was already set.

Jimmy’s itself is a gem. Intimate, lively, and designed for music lovers, the acoustics are phenomenal, the seating is cozy, and the vibe makes you feel like you’re part of something special. We went to the late show and skipped dinner service, opting instead for mocktails. I ordered the Pomegranate Dream (pineapple, pomegranate, and Earl Grey simple syrup) served in a martini glass - it was fun and refreshing.

The show was a full house with a lively audience that was just as engaged as the band. Chris Botti knows how to connect, blending his trumpet mastery with storytelling and humor. One of the highlights of the night was their performance of What a Wonderful World. Every performer joined in, the drummer’s solo was incredible, and the entire audience sang along while waving phone flashlights like old-school lighters. It was one of those goosebump, can’t-forget moments.

This wasn’t our first Chris Botti adventure. We first saw him in 2015 at the Shenzhen Concert Hall in China, which still feels surreal! We somehow managed to buy tickets, navigate a foreign city we'd only been living in for a few months, and not get lost along the way. The second time was in Hong Kong in 2018 at the Cultural Centre overlooking Victoria Harbour - much easier place to navigate. Both performances were amazing, but this one at Jimmy’s topped them. The intimate seating, historic building, and perfect acoustics made it unforgettable.

Where should we see him next??

How to Practice Better Running Breathing

I'm pretty sure that running and biking a 10K on Tuesday inspired mrC.

Yesterday, he put on his running shoes and joined me for my #runstreak one miler. 

Before our run, I came across an online article about proper running breathing (here) and it got me thinking. There are times when I run that it feels effortless and other times when I can't seem to do anything except gasp for air. 

Here's the article in a nutshell:

1. Runs are made better when using breathing patterns and patterns can help prevent injury

2. Deep breathing is a powerful tool that delivers much needed oxygen to muscles during a run

3. Breathing is made better through nose and mouth simultaneously

4. Core strength impacts breathing

On my last two runs, I tried it and it's not as easy as it sounds. 

Run #1:

It was a short run and I ran with mrC, so it was hard to maintain a rhythmic pattern. I tried to follow the 2:2 inhale/exhale ratio, but that must work for faster runners. I modified to 4:4 and started to get the hang of it near the end of our mile. I also tried to keep my exhale on my left foot (my weaker leg), but learned my right foot has control issues.

Run #2:

This run was solo and my breathing practice went much better. I still found myself breaking the pattern anytime my mind wandered, but it was easier. The longer run gave me a lot more time to focus on exhaling on my left too. Overall, the 3.5 miles felt easier than my 5K on Tuesday.

I'm optimistic that with more practice it will get easier and my runs will get better.

In other fun news, after wanting to throw-down my bike and stomp it like a pro-wrestler after Tuesday's combined run/bike 10K, mrC offered to take it for a little tune up. Instead he came back with a new bike! Today I took my new luxury bike on a ride around town.

Last night we went to see Chris Botti perform at the the Shenzhen Concert Hall. It was a wonderful show. Not only was the music great, but we were impressed with Chris Botti's interaction with the audience. 

Do you practice rhythmic breathing when you run?

What was the last concert you went to?