Belated congratulations to President Barack Obama and all those who made his election victory possible. Since this is a music site and I'm trying my best not to include politics I just want to share a few thoughts about the music played by the venerable classical musicians who braved the below freezing temperatures that January morning at the capital building. Even though most people heard the pre-recorded version they did play along to it knowing that their instruments would be stretching the limits in such conditions. Also they did not bring out their million dollar "babies."
Here's more on the story thanks to Southeast to Southwest.
As far as the piece which was a take-off on Aaron Copeland's arrangement of the Shaker hymn Simple Gifts, by John Williams. I thought it was very nice althought I prefer Copeland's simplicity and inspiration.
As hoped for, (by me), it did get to a choral summation before the coda after a sophisticated ensemble played beautifully by the group.
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Inaugural Music
Monday, January 19, 2009
Celebrating Freedom on Martin Luther King Day
Tucson has three events scheduled for Martin Luther King Day Celebration:
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr Multi-faith Service - St. Augustine Cathedral will be open for a special, multi-faith religious service to commemorate the birth date and legacy of The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. "Freedom March" - Jan. 19 A Freedom March commemorating the birth date of The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and celebrating Dr. King's message of human rights. The march begins at the University of Arizona Mall and ends at Reid Park DeMeester Outdoor Performing Center.
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr Day Festival - The Tucson Children's Museum presents a celebration honoring the life and works of The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
I ALWAYS cry when I hear this speech. I have a dream. One can feel the spirit of love and truth pour forth through this man and resonate deep within one's being where love, truth and light await his awakening.
May our new president. Barack Obama, carry the bright light of truth and freedom that is his and our heritage to a new day, a new dawning of a more perfect union and world.
