The Rite of Spring can be frightening for some bassoonists, but Whitney Crockett doesn’t really get scared by it. At least not anymore. The famously high opening solo of Stravinsky’s ballet is something he started preparing in high school, and he’s worked on it over 1,000 times since. The first time he played it in … Continue reading
You need to take the time to watch this. You will feel much better afterwards. Seriously. Because these three guys kick some serious ass with this brief arrangement of the Stravinsky classic. (Tip of the hat to Brian Lauritzen for originally sharing this gem on FB) Continue reading
At the opening talk of this year’s Ojai Music Festival last Thursday, Ara Guzelimien (Provost & Dean of The Julliard School and former Artistic Director of the Ojai Festival) astutely observed that The Rite of Spring has become big business. What used to scare audiences now regularly packs houses. With all of the buzz surrounding … Continue reading
The Los Angeles Philharmonic announced their 2012/2013 season today. Details can be found HERE. I haven’t had the time to peruse it in detail yet, so the bulk of my commentary is forthcoming. I did notice that the first subscription concerts for the season include: Los Angeles Philharmonic Gustavo Dudamel, conductor Ravel Pavane pour une infante défunte … Continue reading
All is Yar 