Musings on ballet, classical music, the violin, and life
The Classical Girl It’s October, Halloween is here and I am obsessed with Berlioz’s Symphonie fantastique. Blame it on the title and mood of the symphony’s fifth movement: “Dream of a Witches’ Sabbath.” Could any title be more deliciously spooky? It’s this movement, and this symphony, that make classical music people nod in recognition at the sound of … Read more
It’s rare to see the violin celebrated in popular movies, let alone those geared toward children. We can only imagine the positive effect such a film might have on youth involvement in music, though, and that’s what makes the new DreamWorks animated film Abominable so refreshing. In case you’re not familiar with it, the movie … Read more
Smuin Contemporary Ballet has returned to the San Francisco stage, launching its 26th season with Dance Series 01. Artistic director Celia Fushille continues to honor the principles of late founder Michael Smuin with classical-based contemporary that pulses with energy, drama and a generous dollop of the eclectic. Case in point: cowboy boots and not pointe shoes … Read more
It’s back-to-school season for the kids, and no better time for San Francisco choreographer Alyssa Mitchel to present the question, “How do we learn?” in her one-hour dance work, The Classroom, which premieres September 7th and 8th in San Francisco at ODC’s Studio B. Each of the work’s sections, with irresistible titles like “Frustration,” “Defining Intelligence” and … Read more
Looking for times and details about the 2021 event on Oct 19th? Click HERE World Ballet Day 2019 was Wednesday, October 23rd. Did you have to miss it and are now gnashing your teeth? Fear not! The Royal Ballet’s 4-hour segment is now available for viewing. You’ll find it a few paragraphs below. Want information … Read more