Classically Speaking

I was shocked and saddened to learn that Erich Kunzel, director of the Cincinnati Pops since its inception in 1977, passed away today at age 74. In April, Kunzel was diagnosed with cancer.

When I interviewed the maestro in January of this year, it was quite clear that this man was as full of energy and vitality as his recordings. Kunzel had a huge personality and his sense of humor was so colorful that it caught me off guard.  After all, I have to admire the sheer frankness of a conductor that says of Ravel’s Bolero, “Players hate the damn thing. It goes on forever and doesn’t do anything.”

Tomorrow, I plan a tribute to the maestro. Tune in to Classical Music from 11am to 3pm on WV Public Radio.

So, Maestro Kunzel, wave that baton at the angels and make them sound as excellent as your beloved orchestra.

I had a wonderful weekend at the WV Symphony Snowshoe Festival.  The scenery was absolutely stunning, the concerts full of impassioned and beautiful music, the pre-concert talks engaging, and everyone was very friendly.  Thank you to everyone who helped me find my way around, chatted with me, did interviews, and helped with untangling all my cords and cables.

You can listen to my radio story about the festival over on our news page. 

I'm not much of a photographer, but I did snap a few pictures, and I'd like to sharewhat it was like up at Snowshoe this past weekend.  Enjoy!

 

You've seen the sights; now hear the sounds.