Search Results for: ass in classical

Revolution for an Evolution part 2 – Breaking Hands

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Pianists from past centuries, particularly those who were composers would use the printed notes as a guide or a jumping off point to improvise, as well as engage in “Breaking Hands”, meaning their hands would not rhythmically synchronize with one another.  In contemporary musical forms such as Jazz and Pop, these practices are the norm and continue to help keep them current.  It brought back a memory of when a great Jazz musician did this in a Classical piece right in front of me, and where schools could take this to help … Continue Reading

Columbus: Chicken Soup for the Symphony (and it’s not a gimmick!)

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Something is simmering in Columbus, but it’s not the usual recipe!  I wrote here and here about the initial reactions to what essentially amounts to a gutting of an orchestra.  Sure there is anger, but there is also bravery and dignity.  The audience from the beginning were empowered and now they are speaking out officially with a web-site that doesn’t sit on the fence…..it is the fence!

A Revolution for an Evolution! – Part 1

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This series is going to be a long term project that I hope starts a discourse. I have written in the past that the Orchestra business needs an intervention but college music education needs a revolution.  Shadowing the angst felt by Orchestras to maintain both relevance and control of their destiny is the fact that the next generation of musicians and administrators are essentially being trained for a world that no longer exists……

The $50,000 Question!

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I mentioned in my  $50,000 Cupcakes post that I would suggest a way to spend “no strings attached”money that might actually benefit an orchestra.  I believe that the money should somehow benefit the audience profoundly and directly, but more importantly the children of those in the audience, with programs that have a chance of sustainability.   By spending money this way, in the end it benefits all involved. Let’s go shopping…..in Texas!

Way to Go Nagano!

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“It was so exciting to be in a jam-packed arena…..I was impressed by the ferocity of the crowd’s emotions. There was such a personal investment and identification with the players. And the mood can change very, very quickly.” This is a quote by Kent Nagano that appeared recently in the Toronto Globe and Mail.  He’s not talking about a concert though…….

Gung Hei Fat Choy, Columbus…….

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For those of you not up on your Mandarin that means “Happy New Year.” Today is the start of the Year of the Rat, and I figure that it’s as good a time as any to ask the question: “Whither Columbus?” (Remember – Chris was actually trying to find China on that voyage.) Teraquads of information have already been spilled on the conundrum that the Columbus Symphony faces. I don’t know if I’ll be able to give any insight but I shall give it my best shot.

New from Heinz: Cupcakes that cost $50,000!

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I was working with the Syracuse Symphony last week and was able to take a trip to Eastman to meet with Greg Sandow, who is teaching there once a week for seven weeks.  Our talk went all over the map and we shared many ideas.  He suggested I check out the Heinz Endowments and their grants for audience initiatives. It just so happens that the program was also in the news last week.  The news is not good though, not good at all!….

Charlotte Part The Third

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Second full day in Charlotte and I wake up feeling like an old man. Between conducting, practicing, and the long bike ride yesterday this 43-year-old body is complaining. Nothing to do but do it all over again.