Aaron Copland on words and music

Well at least you and I both know that this quote doesn't apply to this blog ...

"'The whole problem can be stated quite simply by asking, "Is there a meaning to music?' My answer would be, 'Yes.' And 'Can you state in so many words what the meaning is?' My answer to that would be, 'No.'"

- Aaron Copland

The wisdom of Schnabel

Time for another edition of Read Thoughtfully:

"The difference between my programs and those of other pianists is that mine are boring not only in the first half but also in the second." -Artur Schnabel

A Klingon Christmas Carol

  First I wanted to say that this is unbelievable, but I could not. It is entirely believable.

Christine Brewer masterclass in St. Louis

Metropolitan Opera star Christine Brewer gives a masterclass at Webster University in St. Louis.

Ms. Brewer makes her Celebrity Series of Boston debut on January 15 with a recital at Jordan Hall.

Leon Fleisher: "Music's Obi-Wan Kenobi"

Leon Fleisher just seems to get more relevant with each passing year. He recently spoke with Stuart Isacoff for The Wall Street Journal, in part to promote his book, My Nine Lives. Here's a taste:

"Players try to convince us by using body English—they writhe or look up at the ceiling—all to prove how affected they are by the music. They don't realize what a distraction it really is. We are supposed to be impressed by their show of emotion, but in reality they are merely erecting a barrier between the music and my soul."

Read all of Music's Obi-Wan Kenobi.

Dmitri Hvorostovsky skydives ...

Seriously, dude? Yes, seriosuly, dude. Last December, baritone Dmitri Hvorostovsky jumped out of an airplane to the dulcet tones of Steven Tyler. He posted his jump to his Facebook account (login, but not parachute, required to view).

Bryn Terfel? Roberto Alagna? Matthew Polenzani? The gauntlet has been thrown down, gentlemen. Do you want Karita Mattilla or Renee Fleming to beat you to it?

Celebrity Series Holiday Auction 2010

Check out the treasure trove! There is truly something for everyone and all of the proceeds go to support our Arts, Education and Community Program.

2010 Holiday Auction