Subscribe
to the E-Star!

Postmaster moonlights as Ahwahnee pianist

Laura Dvorak / Guest Columnist

(Updated: Friday, August 27, 2010, 12:59 PM)

The notes resonate, ascending to the 34-foot-high beamed ceilings of Yosemite's Ahwahnee Hotel's dining room, one of the most impressive restaurants in the United States, host to presidents, royalty, celebrities and commoners.

Bill Carroll's hands caress, glide and trill over the ivories of the vintage Steinway, its deep bass and ethereal treble speaking in amazing, powerful sounds of an eclectic repertoire that begins with Johann Pachelbel's elegant, delicate "Canon in D," then segues to Grace Slick's "White Rabbit."

The thumping barely fades before the eerie "Theme from Harry Potter," swirls, sheer as mist, from his fingers. The piano man morphs into "Sam." You can almost see Bogie and Bacall huddled in tableau vivant, "As Time Goes By."

Carroll landed the year-round gig at the prestigious hotel in 1997 and entertains audiences several nights each week. He is also postmaster of Yosemite Post Office.

The job does have its perils, however. One night a bushy-tailed squirrel entered the room, headed for the sheet music and began gnawing away.

Aside from squirrels, Carroll has entertained United States Postmaster General Pat Donahoe and has accompanied folk singer Joan Baez during her mother's 85th birthday celebration.

"One of my best memories was sitting in the Ahwahnee's great lounge with CIA Director Leon Panetta, listening to a Christmas concert.

"Sometimes waiters mention my other job to guests." Carroll said. "Then they visit the Post Office and appear surprised that I really am the postmaster. I've seen about 20 people here who remember me from grade school or from college." Given the millions of Yosemite National Park visitors each year, the chances of recognition are excellent.

His musical training began with Sister Patricia in Catholic school in Whittier. One kindergartner, Mary, was astounded when young William visited her classroom. "I couldn't believe a five-year-old could play the piano," she said, still amazed.

First the music and then the man, moved Mary to marriage that has, so far, celebrated 40 years and five children.

As the warm late afternoon turns to twilight, Carroll shapes a musical moment, suspended in time, with Gershwin's, "Love is Here to Stay."