A Tropical Tune-Up – Left Coast Quintet at Bali Hai

​Today’s performance took us to one of San Diego’s most iconic waterfront spots: Bali Hai Restaurant, where we had the honor of serenading a gorgeous wedding reception with sunshine, sea breezes, and a whole lot of musical charm (plus one very determined seagull).
First things first—if you’ve never been to Bali Hai, it’s a little slice of tiki paradise with unbeatable views of the bay and downtown skyline. It’s the kind of place where you half expect Elvis to walk in wearing a floral shirt. We didn’t get The King, but we did get a crowd of stylishly dressed guests, an elegant couple, and a ceremony with just the right amount of breeze to flirt with everyone's hair.

The Setup:
We only performed for two hours of the reception today, while the groom's brother performed live guitar for the ceremony. So, the quintet arrived early with instruments, music stands, and our usual mix of excitement! Setting up in the South Pacific Room, surrounded by waterfront views? Not a bad office for the day. While the guests mingled and sipped mai tais, we warmed up with a few notes—accompanied by a curious waiter and a very loud plane overhead (thanks, North Island).
The Music:
We leaned into the romantic jazz vibes the couple requested—think ragtime, Broadway, and pop covers. The room was buzzing with people talking and enjoying company, but we could hear each other and they could hear us, so it was successful! Our bassoonist (that’s me!) even got a compliment from a guest who called the instrument “a fancy wooden saxophone,” which we are definitely putting on our business cards.

And yes—we totally forgot to get photos of ourselves playing (classic us), but we did get some beautiful shots of the ceremony, the venue, and the killer view. If anyone reading this was there and happened to grab a photo of our very attractive, extremely talented ensemble doing our thing… please send it our way! We’ll trade you for a dad joke from RB. Or two. You’ve been warned.

In the End:
It was an absolutely lovely day filled with joy, laughter, and music that floated on the breeze. We’re so grateful to have been part of such a memorable celebration, and we wish the happy couple a lifetime of love, laughter, and good playlists.
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Until the next gig—stay classy, San Diego (and please tie down your napkins when there’s a quintet nearby).
🎶 — The Left Coast Quintet