Yesterday morning I woke up to a symphony. The window was open and a quintet was treating me to one of nature's finest originals. Led by a Northern Cardinal, the quintet was rounded out by a Song Sparrow, Common Grackle, and American Robin, with a guest appearance by a Northern House Wren, whose visit, I am advised, was "unlikely" . 

     The quintet was joined in an encore performance by a Mourning Dove, House Sparrow, European Starling, Gray Catbird and Blue Jay.

    My enjoyment of the music was enhanced by one of my favorite apps -- Merlin Bird ID. The app is designed by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology  and "Designed for anyone interested in identifying birds."  I highly recommend it and its a great help in letting you know whose playing in the orchestra and singing in the choir.