You never know what to expect at a Chris Botti concert.

Trumpeter Botti has embraced many musical genres in his career - from jazz to classical to pop to opera. Sunday evening at Chicago's City Winery, he showcased all of them. He also showed off an impressive ensemble of musicians who accompanied him. At the beginning of the show, he explained that his band rotates frequently based on artist availability, but that we were in for a treat this evening. He was correct. He brought out different performers throughout the evening: an excellent young violinist, an operatic tenor, and a guitarist who did yoga poses between songs. An upright bass player, drummer, and pianist remained on stage throughout the evening. Each musician was excellent.

The funky guitar intro to "When I Fall in Love" made the song unrecognizable for the first two minutes. The drum solo on "Irresistible Bliss" energized the crowd.

Chris spent time talking with the audience, at one point promoting his cruise, which sets sail from New England next year and includes many other musicians.

Botti's work has earned him a Grammy Award and five nominations.

I did not know what to expect tonight.

I did not know what kind of music Chris would play. He mixed genres expertly.

I did not know who would accompany him. He brought a swarm of great artists.

I did not know how much I would enjoy it. I loved it!