Story & Song
Press Release
Submitted by Mark Kaufman
July 17, 2019 3:00 p.m.
It’s all too common for a book to inspire a film version, but it takes a special talent to translate a story into a song. Yet that’s exactly what makes Caren and Paul Umbarger, who perform together as The Island Duet, so special.
When Caren’s latest novel, The Passion of Marta, was published, Paul was inspired to write a musical score for each chapter of the book that they could perform on violin and guitar. The story, set in 1780s Germany, centers around nine-year-old Marta Lindauer, who is spellbound upon hearing the sound of a violin. She is consumed with desire to learn how to play – a privilege reserved solely for her brother – and must make a deal with the devil to have her wish fulfilled.
And what better place than Story & Song Bookstore Bistro for a book talk and concert rolled into one? At a special luncheon performance on Sunday, July 21st at 1 pm, The Island Duet will tell the story of The Passion of Marta in words and music. Caren narrates, then she and Paul, “The Island Duet,” play an original composition for violin and guitar that reflects the story as it unfolds.
Caren Umbarger is a classically-trained violinist who began playing at the age of five – no doubt the inspiration for her book. Paul began playing guitar, piano and trumpet at age 10. That two such talented and creative people met and married is a story in itself. They currently call St. Augustine home, and perform throughout northeast Florida.
Tickets for the luncheon performance of The Passion of Marta are $40, and include a buffet lunch, beverage of choice, and a copy of either the book or CD version. Seating is limited; tickets are available at the bookstore or by calling (904) 601-2118.