“Three Excursions for Two Violas” is a collection of concert viola duets inspired the music of Cuba, Afghanistan and Louisiana.    The first of the three sets of duets is titled "Cuban Delights" loosely composed in the Salsa Charanga style. Each movement is inspired by one of my favorite cuban foods. First is "Congri´" dirty rice and beans, next there is "Maduros"  fried sweet plantains.  Then  "Mamoncillo" Spanish lime and to finish the meal of course a strong cup of "Caf´e con Leche" coffee with warm milk.     The second set of duets were inspired by some of my favorite poems by the Afghani sufi poet Jalaluddin Rumi. Composed in a Middle Eastern style, first is "Out Beyond Ideas" then "I See My Beauty In You" and lastly "The Guest House”.   The final set of duos were written about a day I spent with my good friend exploring Acadia also known as Cajun country in Louisiana. These pieces are paraphrases of the Cajun and Zydeco music we heard that day. Our first stop was "Fred's Lounge 8am" next we had "Lunch at Mulate's" and finally we ended up at "Midnight At El Sido's"     I am thankful to  Scott Slapin and Tanya Solomon who did an amazing job of bringing these three very different pieces to life. I hope these excursions take you to exciting and peaceful places. Happy travels and happy listening. Dave Rimelis