“Suddenly” is a word used often by the Russians. I remember being told once in a writing workshop never to use the word “suddenly.” Only Dostoevsky can use that word, the teacher said. Writing instructors often say that nothing in fiction happens … [Read more...]
Tchaikovsky Spectacular!
It is the time of year for the “Tchaikovsky Spectacular,” which means the end of the summer outdoor concert season with the 1812 Overture with cannons and fireworks. Here in Southern California that means The Hollywood Bowl and many other regional … [Read more...]
Dr. Zhivago Lives…
Peredelkino it was a magic feeling looking out from Boris Pasternak’s tall windows into the red and golden woods on that autumn day and to know he saw the same thing when he looked up from his small desk as he wrote “Doctor Zhivago.” It is a village … [Read more...]
Pelicans are Poetic
The Pelican is very poetic. I sometimes watch the sunsets from Inspiration Point on the Pacific here in Corona del Mar, California. On certain times of the year, like now, the pelicans soar in their lazy v-formation along the beach and bluffs, … [Read more...]
Rocks in your pack?
I went to college in Colorado and I remember a story that has always stuck with me. Some guys went hiking in the Rockies, up to a lake high above timberline. Each climber has his pack, bedroll, food, etc. on his back – heavy. With the thinning air … [Read more...]
PRAGUE~ A very special city
From my global travels there is a short list of cities that remain as very special places to me, for many different reasons. Prague, in the Czech Republic, is certainly one of them. I had a business there. Prague has been a political, cultural … [Read more...]
St. Petersburg~A Favorite City of Mine
As usual in Russia, it is a place of mixed meaning and effect. Founded by Peter the Great in 1703 as his “Window on the West” it is still that and for that reason a place at arm’s length from the rest of Russia. And for that reason, one of the most … [Read more...]
Japan Rising!
Before we recognized the enormity of nature’s attack on Japan, we agreed the Japanese were so well organized, prepared, and competent, they could handle it all well. Then the bad news continued to build and we saw the potential. Then we began to … [Read more...]
INCREDIBLE EXPERIENCE!
I was invited to a concert of Gustavo Dudamel and the LA Philharmonic Sunday. Actually it was a film special wide screen concert , and it was fantastic. It was an incredible performance – Tchaikovsky’s three Overture-Fantasies inspired by … [Read more...]