November 2008
Top Symphony?
NPR reports on Gramophone magazine's list of the top 20 orchestras in the world. Though I am happy to see the LA Phil climbing up the rankings [deservingly], the idea of comparing orchestras on the vicisitudes of their sounds just seems so 20th century. I prefer the criteria Tom Service of the Guardian suggests for a poll more relevant to our times – 'how about a roll call of the bands most involved in their community instead?'
MOCA in hot water
Not such a sweet combination of late in Los Angeles.
One of the country's leading contemporary art institutions [and a place where I've spent countless hours discovering art of our time] finds itself in deep fiscal trouble, according the LA Times. The paper's art critic Christopher Knight contends that the museum's board of trustees – and not the current financial situation – are to blame.
In an unrelated move Los Angeles philanthropist Eli Broad apparently plans to open a new museum to house his private collection, possibly in proximity to the new wing of the LA County Museum of Art that bears his name.
All about Adler
Adler – Beyond the Pale, opening [Samuel Adler, conductor]
Waterloo-Cedar Falls Symphony, November 1, 2008
Adler – A Bridge to Understanding, Scherzo [Jason Weinberger, conductor]
Waterloo-Cedar Falls Symphony, November 1, 2008
Transparent transition
Auspicious political transformation is upon us here in the United States, and for the first time the governmental changeover can be followed online at Barack Obama's transition website. I am eager to see how the new administration continues its pioneering use of the web to offer transparency and connectivity to U.S. citizens and observers from around the world.
A royal pain
The Queen of England v. Maestro Ricardo Muti? Tom Service offers an amusing report on their recent spat over the orchestral programming for Prince Charles' 60th birthday party. [By comparison, the artistic planning I'm involved with is a piece of cake!]
The Classical Style [of going glass]
With a new season upon us, a post from the NBA fan in me. Here's a look at the stylish [and style-obsessed] analysis typical of The Macrophenomenal Pro Basketball Almanac. Direct from the source, the good folks at freedarko.com.
Blogging is dead
Long live blogging! The Economist considers the past, present and future of the form.
The Art of Obama
Please vote on Tuesday. A good spot for following the election is fivethirtyeight.com.
I support Barack Obama, as do many artists. Here are some notable aesthetic efforts on behalf of his campaign: Shepard Fairey – Design for Obama – Callie Shell – Art for Obama – 30 Reasons – Barack Rock! – Obama Street Art – The New Hope