1.   The fanfare seized up on its first chord and then seemed to fall over itself, collapsing in a welter of notes.

2.   After the first chords from the nine-piece band Brazilian Beat, the place erupted into a gyrating party.

3.   From the first crashing bass chord, Cliburn staked his claim.

4.   It was a stunning upset, the first powerful chord of nationhood the country had known.

5.   Then, without much warning, the first chords launch off the darkened stage.