Podcasts about symphony hall

Actor Richard Kind stops by ahead of his upcoming July 19 performance at Symphony Hall, “How Not to Be Famous: A Conversation with Richard Kind.” Plus, librettist Selda Sahin, and the Atlanta Opera director of community engagement and education, Jessica Kiger discuss “Steele Roots” which makes its world premiere at the Atlanta Opera on June 20, followed by an encore performance June 22 at the Ray Charles Performing Arts Center at Morehouse College. And Floyd Hall, the Executive Director of Atlanta Contemporary, discusses their upcoming annual “Art Party” on June 21.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Comedian/Podcaster Dusty Slay returns to talk about his upcoming August 9 show at Symphony Hall.

Star Wars Celebration Japan gave us Loth Kittens, Shadow Lords, Grogu and Gosling, and so much more. We are still processing all the big announcements and surprises, so we brought on a special guest. Our good friend B.J. Priester (Hyperspace Theories/Fangirl Blog) shares his experiences at the Main Stage, the merchandise store, and he helps us break down and analyze all the Star Wars reveals. What were you most excited about?  Topics discussed: MANDALORIAN AND GROGU Why wasn't there a Lucasfilm Showcase panel? Footage described in detail STAR WARS: STARFIGHTER Is this the DEADPOOL of Star Wars with director Shawn Levy?? AHSOKA Season 2 Lothballs! (Loth Kittens) Baylan Scoll recasting Thrawn vs. Admiral Ackbar Updates to SMUGGLER'S RUN: Mandalorian and Grogu version Let's flip this switch! They are testing this version right now in Disneyland!! ANDOR Season 2 It's here! LFL 20th Anniversary Animation Panel - MAUL: SHADOW LORD Footage discussed in detail Highlights Merchandise Cosplay   Today in Star Wars History 4/29/1980   John Williams debuts as conductor of the Boston Pops at a Symphony Hall performance in Boston, MA. R2-D2 and Anthony Daniels as C-3PO make guest appearances and conduct the “Main Title” from Star Wars.  Williams conducts two brand new never-heard before themes from The Empire Strikes Back soundtrack - “Yoda's Theme” and “The Imperial March.” The performance airs live on PBS.    SPONSORS   Small World Vacations is an official sponsor of Skywalking Through Neverland. Contact them for a no obligation price quote at www.smallworldvacations.com. Tell them Skywalking Through Neverland sent you.   SUPPORT THE SHOW   Find out how you can become a part of the Skywalking Force and unlock bonus content.   CONTACT US   Instagram: http://instagram.com/skywalkingpod   Twitter: https://twitter.com/SkywalkingPod   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/skywalkingthroughneverland   Send emails to share@skywalkingthroughneverland.com and follow us on Facebook.   If you dug this episode, click over to iTunes | Stitcher | YouTube and leave us a review!   Never Land on Alderaan!

Star Wars Celebration Japan gave us Loth Kittens, Shadow Lords, Grogu and Gosling, and so much more. We are still processing all the big announcements and surprises, so we brought on a special guest. Our good friend B.J. Priester (Hyperspace Theories/Fangirl Blog) shares his experiences at the Main Stage, the merchandise store, and he helps us break down and analyze all the Star Wars reveals. What were you most excited about?  Topics discussed: MANDALORIAN AND GROGU Why wasn't there a Lucasfilm Showcase panel? Footage described in detail STAR WARS: STARFIGHTER Is this the DEADPOOL of Star Wars with director Shawn Levy?? AHSOKA Season 2 Lothballs! (Loth Kittens) Baylan Scoll recasting Thrawn vs. Admiral Ackbar Updates to SMUGGLER'S RUN: Mandalorian and Grogu version Let's flip this switch! They are testing this version right now in Disneyland!! ANDOR Season 2 It's here! LFL 20th Anniversary Animation Panel - MAUL: SHADOW LORD Footage discussed in detail Highlights Merchandise Cosplay   Today in Star Wars History 4/29/1980   John Williams debuts as conductor of the Boston Pops at a Symphony Hall performance in Boston, MA. R2-D2 and Anthony Daniels as C-3PO make guest appearances and conduct the “Main Title” from Star Wars.  Williams conducts two brand new never-heard before themes from The Empire Strikes Back soundtrack - “Yoda's Theme” and “The Imperial March.” The performance airs live on PBS.    SPONSORS   Small World Vacations is an official sponsor of Skywalking Through Neverland. Contact them for a no obligation price quote at www.smallworldvacations.com. Tell them Skywalking Through Neverland sent you.   SUPPORT THE SHOW   Find out how you can become a part of the Skywalking Force and unlock bonus content.   CONTACT US   Instagram: http://instagram.com/skywalkingpod   Twitter: https://twitter.com/SkywalkingPod   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/skywalkingthroughneverland   Send emails to share@skywalkingthroughneverland.com and follow us on Facebook.   If you dug this episode, click over to iTunes | Stitcher | YouTube and leave us a review!   Never Land on Alderaan!

Recorded live at Symphony Hall with Boston Symphony Orchestra musicians and a star-studded cast, this indigenous Pacific Northwest tale follows a wily coyote on a daring rescue.

Recorded live at Symphony Hall with Boston Symphony Orchestra musicians and a star-studded cast, this Egyptian, Iraqi, Palestinian, Sudanese and Tunisian tale shows the importance of never biting off more than you can chew.

In this interview with Tom Morris, a veteran of orchestra management whose career included leadership roles with the Boston Symphony and the Cleveland Orchestra, conductor Devin Patrick Hughes provides a comprehensive look at the inner workings of orchestral institutions, the evolution of their management, and the crucial role of music in their success. Morris's journey from a percussionist to a top-level administrator offers a unique perspective, and his reflections provide valuable lessons for anyone interested in the performing arts. One of the most compelling aspects of the interview is Morris's discussion of how his musical background shaped his management philosophy. He emphasizes his deep understanding of musicians' lives, having experienced firsthand the challenges and demands of performing in an orchestra. This empathy enabled him to build trust with musicians and approach labor negotiations with a unique perspective. Morris's belief that "ultimately these institutions are about the music" underscores the importance of passion and artistic integrity in organizational leadership. The episode also explores the historical evolution of orchestra management, particularly the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Morris recounts how, before the 1970s, the orchestra relied on simple postcards for subscription renewals. He explains that over the seventies and eighties, the percentage of the budget earned from ticket sales gradually fell. This shift necessitated the development of marketing and fundraising departments, leading to a significant increase in administrative staff.  Morris shares fascinating insights about the Boston Pops, emphasizing that it was founded in 1885, before Arthur Fiedler became its 17th conductor in 1929. The Boston Symphony created the Pops to provide more employment for musicians and to perform lighter music for a broader audience. He discusses how the Boston Symphony transformed Symphony Hall into a "beer hall" to accommodate a more informal setting for the Pops concerts. He explains that in the early days the Pops sold blocks of tickets to community groups and did not have to focus on individual ticket sales. He also recounts how the popularity of Arthur Fiedler was enhanced even further by the "Evening at Pops" television series. Morris details the process of selecting John Williams as Fiedler's successor, explaining that Williams was chosen for his musical integrity and knowledge of the symphony orchestra. Furthermore, the interview addresses the crucial dynamic between management, the music director, and the board of directors, which Morris refers to as the "Bermuda Triangle.” Morris suggests that this structure can function perfectly if the right people are in those roles and are bound by a common vision. He also emphasizes that having a collaborative culture is essential, but that collaborative decision-making should be avoided. Morris stresses the importance of clear lines of authority and not settling for "good enough" when hiring. He also shares that when hiring he uses Jim Collins' three C's: competence, character, and chemistry. These points underscore the need for strong leadership and a shared vision in any successful organization. Morris also touches on the importance of thoughtful programming. He humorously mentions his collection of "dumb programs" and emphasizes the importance of carefully considering the combination of pieces in a concert. He contrasts examples of bad programming with one of his favorites, a concert he organized with Christoph von Dohnányi, which combined pieces by Ligeti, Wagner, and Bruckner. This conversation highlights that thoughtful artistic direction is an essential element in the success of an orchestra. Thank you for joining us on One Symphony. Special thanks to Thomas Morris for sharing his life and leadership. You can pick up a copy of Always the Music: How a Lifelong Passion Framed a Future for Orchestras wherever you get your books. For a list of recordings played on today's episode, please check out our show notes. You can always find more info at OneSymphony.podbean.com or DevinPatrickHughes.com, including a virtual tip jar if you'd like to support the show. Please feel free to rate, review, or share the podcast! Until next time, thank you for being part of the music. https://www.alwaysthemusic.com Featured Music All music selections for this episode feature the Boston Pops.  Tchaikovsky's Serenade for Strings in C Major, Op. 48: Waltz. Conducted by Arthur Fiedler, from the album Fiedler: Greatest Hits.  L'Arlésienne Suite No. 2: Farandole. Composed by Georges Bizet. Conducted by Arthur Fielder, from the album Fiedler: Greatest Hits. “Manhattan Skyline.” From the album Disco Inferno / Manhattan Skyline. Conducted by Arthur Fiedler.  “I Got Rhythm, Embraceable You.” From the album Boston Pops Salutes Astaire, Kelly, Garland. Composed by George and Ira Gershwin. Conducted by John Williams.  “Flying Theme” from E. T. Composed by John Williams. Performed live by John Williams conducting the Boston Pops in 2002.  “America Medley: America.” From the album Salute to America. Composed by Leonard Bernstein. Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim. Conducted by John Williams.  “None But The Lonely Heart.” From the album Pops a la Russe. Composed by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. Conducted by John Williams.  The Snow Maiden - Suite - Danse des Bouffons. Composed by Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov. From the album Pops a la Russe. Conducted by John Williams.  Holst: The Planets, op.32: 3. Mercury, The Winged Messenger. From the album Boston Pops Orchestra: John Williams. Conducted by John Williams. Overture from The Merry Wives of Windsor. From the album Fiedler: Greatest Hits. Conducted by Arthur Fiedler.  “Pizzicato Polka.” From the album 100 Fiedler Favorites. Conducted by Arthur Fiedler.  “Funeral March of a Marionette.” From the album 100 Fiedler Favorites. Conducted by Arthur Fiedler.  

Wynton Marsalis joins WBUR's Morning Edition ahead of a performance at Symphony Hall.

Tom Sutcliffe explores the importance of acoustics and the evolution of building design in the enjoyment of music. The academic Fiona Smyth tells the story of the groundbreaking work undertaken by scientists, architects and musicians, who revolutionised this new science in the 20th century, in her new book Pistols in St Paul's. Trevor Cox, Professor of Acoustic Engineering at the University of Salford, updates the story, revealing the very latest scientific breakthroughs and why certain music venues capture the purity of sound. And the saxophonist Jess Gillam gives a personal view on what playing with different acoustics entails. Gillam is playing in two Christmas concerts, 19th + 20th December, with the CBSO at Symphony Hall, Birmingham – one of the best-designed music venues in the country. Producer: Kay Hickman

It's been a minute, but Candice Springer, assistant director for WBUR CitySpace, is back to give you the low down on what's happening in the city this December. After a quick recap of the biggest musical movie event of the year ("Wicked"), here's what Candice recommends: Out and About in Boston Massachusetts Independent Comics Expo (MICE) Now in its 15th year, MICE is New England's longest-running independent comics expo. At this totally free event there is something for everyone: workshops for artists of all levels, panel discussions and, of course, a marketplace where you can peruse comics and other work by dozens of independent artists -- just in time for holiday shopping! At Boston University's Fuller Building, Dec. 7 to 8. A Nostalgic Night with Macaulay Culkin This is the first of two opportunities to see "Home Alone" in Boston this holiday season. On Sunday, Dec. 15, head over to the Chevalier Theater in Newton for a screening of the holiday movie classic, and an exclusive moderated talk with Kevin himself, Macaulay Culkin. 'Home Alone' in concert Can't make it to the movies before Christmas? We don't blame you. Luckily, the Boston Pops is giving "Home Alone" its own treatment with a live score just after the holidays at Symphony Hall on Dec. 27, 28 and 29. This Month at WBUR CitySpace Curated Cuisine: Historian Jessica B. Harris on the culinary and cultural traditions of Kwanzaa James Beard Award-winning culinary historian Jessica B. Harris joins Tamika R. Francis, founder of Food & Folklore, for a conversation about the updated edition of her book, “A Kwanzaa Keepsake and Cookbook: Celebrating the Holiday with Family, Community and Tradition.” Additionally, guests will get to enjoy a spicy three-cheese mac and cheese, and holiday gingerbread with molasses whipped cream from the book after the event on Dec. 9. Ones to Watch: The Floor Lords empower local youth through the positivity of hip hop dance The Floor Lords, a Boston-based breakdancing crew, will perform at CitySpace on Dec. 11. After some dancing, they'll talk with WBUR arts reporter Arielle Gray about the crew's mission to empower local youth. Greater Boston's weekly podcast where news and culture meet.

Sharon Isbin was named Musical America Worldwide's 2020 Instrumentalist of the Year, the first guitarist ever to receive the honor in its 59-year award history. She was inducted into the 2023 Guitar Foundation of America Hall of Fame and received its Artistic Achievement Award.   She is “the pre-eminent guitarist of our time”, the winner of Guitar Player magazine's Best Classical Guitarist award, and numerous other awards. Sharon has appeared as soloist with over 200 orchestras and has given sold-out performances in many of the world's finest halls across 40 countries, including New York's Carnegie and Geffen Halls, Boston's Symphony Hall, Washington D.C.'s Kennedy Center, Philadelphia's Kimmel Center, London's Barbican and Wigmore Halls, Amsterdam's Concertgebouw, Paris' Châtelet, Vienna's Musikverein, Munich's Herkulessaal, Argentina's Teatro Colón, and Madrid's Teatro Real.  She has been acclaimed for expanding the guitar repertoire with some of the finest new works of our time, and has premiered over 80 works written for her by world-renowned composers, including more concerti than any other guitarist, as well as numerous solo and chamber works. Public television's acclaimed one-hour documentary Sharon Isbin: Troubadour has been seen by millions on over 200 PBS stations across the U.S. and abroad.  Other recent national performances on PBS include the Billy Joel Gershwin Prize with Josh Groban, and Tavis Smiley.  And, she has a significant discography.   Sharon Isbin has been practicing Transcendental Meditation since age 17 and donates her time to perform benefits for the David Lynch Foundation, along with Katy Perry, Sting, Hugh Jackman, Jerry Seinfeld and Jay Leno, to bring TM to at-risk communities. We'll talk about that and more in this inspiring conversation.

In September, Boston Mayor Michelle Wu performed George Gershwin's “Rhapsody in Blue” at Symphony Hall with the Boston Pops. Cognoscenti spoke to her about her lifelong love of the piano and how it informs her role as a public servant.

On this episode of The Common, WBUR Climate and Environment Correspondent Barbara Moran joins the show to discuss what impacts the presidential candidates would have on Massachusetts' climate goals if they get elected. Then, we get suggestions for how to spend the month of September in Greater Boston. -------- Classes might be back in session now that it's September, but that doesn't mean you can't still get out there and enjoy some culture this month. Here are WBUR CitySpace Assistant Director Candice Springer's picks for September: Out and About in Boston Gabe Gibbs at Laugh Boston Emerson College alum Gabe Gibbs returns to Boston with a comedic musical extravaganza, featuring spoofs of popular numbers as well as original songs. Bostonians will be treated to this performance just once on Thursday, Sept. 12 at 8 p.m. at the local comedy club Laugh Boston. Fiesta en la plaza  Boston City Hall Plaza is at it again with another fabulous free community celebration. This time, it's Fiesta en la plaza, which celebrates Latinx Heritage Month with hours of programming including musical performances, art and film screenings topped off with a salsa dance party. Happening at Boston City Hall Plaza Sept. 15-27. Cirque de la Symphonie: Cirque goes to the Cinema This one is for lovers of the symphony, cinema and the circus alike. Join the Boston Pops and Cirque de la Symphonie for a night of stunning acrobatics set to classic movie scores at Symphony Hall on Friday, Sept. 20 at 7:30 p.m. This Month at WBUR CitySpace Curated Cuisine: Nini Nguyen Nini Nguyen is a New Orleans-based chef who has developed her own version of traditional Vietnamese cuisine. She recently released a new cookbook, "Đặc Biệt: An Extra-Special Vietnamese Cookbook." Join Nguyen and The Common host Darryl C. Murphy on Monday, Sept. 9 for a discussion and an on-stage cooking demonstration. Sound On: Axel & Lolo Axel & Lolo were chosen as WBUR's favorite local submission to NPR's Tiny Desk Contest. Come see the best friend duo perform a set live at WBUR CitySpace on Friday, Sept. 27 at 7 p.m. Greater Boston's weekly podcast where news and culture meet.

It's the beginning of a long holiday weekend here in the United States. Here's an extra episode for your travels! We are JUST about to hit the road on the Judge John Hodgman Road Court so we thought we'd share another great one from our last tour. This one was recorded LIVE in Atlanta on the Van Freaks Roadshow. A dispute about some old speakers, a case on middle names, and some wrestlers arguing about CHILI! Plus some house music from the Chuck Bryant Trio. If you enjoyed listening to this episode, know that you'll have more fun experiencing a live episode IRL! Get your Judge John Hodgman ROAD COURT tickets at maximumfun.org/events and submit your cases at maximumfun.org/jjho! And if you're IN Atlanta, don't miss our guest Chuck Bryant and his podcast STUFF YOU KNOW  Live September 7 at Symphony Hall! Tickets are available HERE. Judge John Hodgman: Road Court! Tickets are on sale NOW! For dates and more information, go to maximumfun.org/events.

Alonzo Bodden details the upcoming “Wait, Wait… Don't Tell Me” stand-up comedy show at Symphony Hall. Plus, we hear how Anne Byrn brings history and insight to her new book, “Baking in the American South.”See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Our relationship develops.by senorlongo. Listen to the ► Podcast at Connected.After morning singing and smooching, Steffi & I rose, walked downstairs, and dressed. I drove her to a local sub shop for a couple of Italian subs. We ate on the living room table with some Cokes from the refrigerator. Suddenly, I jumped up. “I bought you something; actually two somethings.” I carried a big plastic bag from the hall closet. She opened it and her eyes went wide.“It's really not that big a deal; just a college sweatshirt and a T-shirt you can use as a night gown. We can't be together overnight, but we can be close this way.”“I love them, Rob and I love you; so much.” She reached up and pulled me down for another long wet and extremely passionate kiss. She shrugged into the sweatshirt as we continued with our meal. An hour later we made love again. After a quick shower I took her home.CHAPTER 7I met Steffi every afternoon when school was out. We saw each other every Saturday and all day Sunday, too. Jewish Steffi had a higher attendance rate at my church than some of the regular Methodists in the congregation. Rather than tire of each other our relationship grew stronger by the day. Unfortunately, it couldn't continue. On October 15th basketball practice began and I had to step up my rehearsal time for my upcoming concert. Steffi spent many hours with me in that ugly black practice room. One day, under the guise of playing back a song I was working on, I played the tape of her orgasm from that Sunday afternoon. Poor Steffi; her face turned bright red, but I did kiss her and tell her that I loved her and that was enough.My concerts; Friday night, Saturday afternoon and night, and Sunday afternoon and night; went extremely well. Symphony Hall was sold out. I wasn't all that surprised. The critics raved about my mini-concert back in September. Ticket sales were brisk thereafter.I invited Steffi and her entire family to be my guests for the Saturday night show. They also had backstage passes so my dressing room was crowded after the concert. I arranged for them to meet Heath Lockner who was extremely gracious, spending almost a half hour when he could have been en route to his family. Everything was going so well; too well as it turned out.The second week in November I once again had lunch with the Goldwassers on a Saturday after basketball practice that morning. After lunch we sat in the family room watching a football game. I was on the floor with my back against the couch; Steffi was next to me, my arm around her shoulders. For some reason I would never understand her father got the idea to ask me if I had ever kissed Steffi. “Yes, sir we have kissed any number of times,” I replied honestly.“What about sex? Have you tried to force her to have sex with you?”“Dr. Goldwasser, I would never ever force anyone to have sex with me, least of all Steffi.”“I notice you did not deny having sex, just forcing her.”“That is not a subject I would discuss with anyone. It's simply only Steffi's business and mine.”“I see. So you have had sex with her. I have half a mind to call the police and have you arrested.”“For what, Daddy?” Steffi was becoming upset.“For statutory rape, of course.”Now Steffi laughed. “Daddy, the age of consent in Massachusetts is sixteen. I'm eighteen, remember?”“Okay, then; regular rape.”“Daddy, Rob never forced me to do anything. I was more than willing, believe me. I would never testify otherwise because it just isn't true.” I wasn't very happy with how this conversation was evolving. I thought her father liked me and now it was like Torquemada and the Spanish Inquisition in here.Finally, I heard the words I dreaded, “Robert, I think you should leave. You are no longer welcome here.” I wasn't about to argue. This conversation was totally irrational and I learned early on in life not to try to argue with irrational people. I got up and walked toward the door. Steffi's mom put a soothing hand on my arm when I passed so I knew I had at least one ally. I left a minute later.Steffi was livid. “Daddy, I have no intention of giving up Rob because of your antiquated and idiotic ideas.”“No daughter of mine is going to have sex out of wedlock like some trampy whore. You're too young.”“I'm too young? I'm eighteen. Ask Jeremy; I'll bet that half the kids in his class have had sex!”“That's different. He's a boy.”“What? Excuse me? That's ridiculous. What does that have to do with it?”“He can't get pregnant and bring disgrace to our family. Besides, young men are expected to sow their wild oats.”“Daddy; you're being an ass!” Steffi turned and left, storming up the stairs in a huff.“I apologize, Jeremy. You shouldn't have had to witness that. Perhaps it would be best if you went upstairs so your father and I can talk.” Jeremy walked out of the room, but turned in the doorway, “I do have to agree with Steffi, Dad. You ARE being an ass.”Once he was out of the room Mrs. Goldwasser asked her husband, “Neil, what the hell was that all about? Steffi is not ten, you know.”“I don't care. No daughter of mine is going to sleep around like a whore.”“Oh God, just listen to yourself. Steffi is not sleeping around. She's had sex with exactly two boys. She's madly in love with Rob and he's in love with her, too.”“That's absurd. They've only known each other for two months.”“Perhaps if you would listen with just half the energy you use in shooting your mouth off you would have some idea what's going on. One of these days you might think of moving into the twentieth century.”“Excuse me, but this is the twenty-first century.”“My point exactly; you are at least a hundred years behind the times. You heard Jeremy; everyone he knows has had sex; boys and girls both. And where did that old double-standard bullshit come from? That went out decades ago.”“First of all, don't swear at me, and second, I have the right to my own beliefs.”“That may be, but don't expect anything out of me until that attitude changes.”“What do you mean?”“Forget sex with me until you change your mind and apologize to your daughter, Rob, and to me.” Slam, went the front door.!“What the hell was that?” the old man demanded.“Unless I'm mistaken you've just lost your daughter. Nice going; with thinking like that I don't know how you even graduated from sixth grade let alone dental school.” She rose and walked out. “One more thing–plan on sleeping in the guest room unless you want me to leave, too.”I was about ten miles away when my phone rang. ‘Rob? It's Steffi; I've left home. Will you please pick me up so I can stay with you?” Dear God; could this get any worse? I asked her where she was and made arrangements to get her. Meanwhile, I phoned her home. Jeremy answered.“Boy, Rob,” he whispered, “you should have heard my mom. She really let Dad have it.”“Jeremy, I need to speak with your mother, please.”A minute later she came onto the phone, “I'm sorry for all of that, Rob. It was inexcusable.”“That's not important, Mrs. G. Steffi just called me. She wants me to pick her up. What do you want me to do?”“I don't think she'd stay here if you brought her back, so can she stay with you for a while? I'll be relieved knowing she's safe.”“Sure, but it seems kind of bizarre; she'll stay with me and we'll have sex several times a day, exactly what her father wants to avoid. Incredible!”“I agree, but it's all on him. I think I can get to him in a week or so. Bring her over here Monday while he's at work for some clothes and stuff. I'll talk to you then.” I rung off and headed toward my rendezvous with Steffi. I found the gas station and she was behind it, exactly as she had promised. I noticed she had been crying when she got into the car. I held her close, kissing her cheek and caressing her face.“I left home, Rob; I'm not going back. My father is an asshole.”“I'm inclined to agree, but don't jump to any conclusions. I just spoke to your mom. I think she'll resolve the whole mess pretty soon. Jeremy told me she was really pissed at him. We'll go over Monday after my classes and get you some clothes. I guess you'll have to sleep with me tonight.”“I hope so. At least then something positive will come from this mess.” I patted her knee and pulled out my phone. I had one other call to make. I pressed the speed dial and Joe answered.“Sorry to bother you on a Saturday, Joe; there was just a big blowup at Steffi's and she's going to be staying with me for a while. I didn't want you or Carla freaking out when she shows up for breakfast tomorrow morning.”“Sorry to hear that, Rob; I'll let Carla know. Don't worry about it. It's not as though she doesn't know you're sleeping together, besides Carla's what we used to call unflappable. Not many things will faze her.” We talked for a few minutes before I ended the call. I didn't like to talk on the phone while driving.The ride was mostly in silence. I noticed that Steffi was still crying. I hugged her while we were stopped for a light. “Don't worry; I have a lot of faith in your mom. You'll be back home before you know it.”“I don't want to go back home, Rob. I want to be with you; even if it means changing schools. Don't forget, I'm already eighteen, almost nineteen. I'm an adult legally and I can do whatever I want. Don't you want me, Rob?”“You already know the answer to that, don't you? I just want you and your family intact. Having a family is really important.”“Having you is more important, besides I'll still have my mother and brother.” I couldn't argue, and, truthfully, I didn't want to. This whole thing was a nightmare; I wished it would just go away.“Did you bring anything? Do you want me to stop for; a toothbrush, or anything else?”“Uh; sorry, Rob. I didn't bring anything. I was too angry to even think straight.” I assured her that it was okay and pulled into a Walgreen's. I bought her a new electric toothbrush, a hairbrush, and some tampons; her period was just around the corner. I also bought some condoms; she'd forgotten her birth control pills, too.We watched a Boston College game all afternoon; their victory seemed to lift her spirits, but the high point came when I led her to bed. I stripped her and pushed her back onto the bed before climbing on with her. We kissed slowly, deeply, and tenderly with lots of love and even more tongue. We rubbed our bodies together and I wondered what her father would think if he could see us now. I didn't really care; I only cared what Steffi thought. She thought she loved me. That was all that mattered.She climbed onto my body and rubbed herself against my erection. “We can do it naked tonight, but we'll have to check the internet to make sure you'll be safe. If there's any question; any at all, I'll be wearing the condom. We'll get your pills on Monday.” She made a face, knowing how much better it would be for both of us without. Steffi mounted me, slowly sinking onto my hard organ. Her expression told me how much she was enjoying it, and more, how much she needed it. I rose to meet her every thrust. In seconds we were in a comfortable rhythm; one that would bring us to our destination, but not too fast. We usually lasted for a half hour or more at this speed. This afternoon was no exception. We moved faster and faster as we neared our coupling's natural conclusion. I knew we were especially close when Steffi dug her fingers into my shoulders. Too soon we were spent. My abdomen was covered in her juice; semen poured from her battered cunt.“Promise me we can do that every day,” she begged. I only smiled and nodded as I pulled her body to mine. Our sweat mingled as we rubbed together. Other than her father's tirade it was an excellent afternoon. Now I had to worry about actually sleeping with her. That would be a new experience for both of us. I only hoped my bed would be big enough. As it turned out a twin would have been fine. We spooned together all night, my hand resting gently on her tit.We rose early, looked at each other and laughed. There is absolutely nothing like seeing your lover in the morning for the first time. I sent Steffi into the bathroom while I straightened the bed. I placed my dirty clothes in the hamper, but Steffi would need hers. She had worn a simple top and Capri's yesterday afternoon. I felt they would be adequate for church even though she was somewhat nervous about being underdressed. I gave her an old T-shirt had had her turn around in it. No good; I could see her ass so I gave her an old set of gym shorts which could be tied over her hips making her moderately decent. She went downstairs for a cup of coffee before I arrived for breakfast.Joe and Carla were there seated at the table when Steffi walked in. “Morning, Steffi,” Carla said, “I hear you had a tough day yesterday.”“Yeah, it was,” I replied, just entering the room. I poured a cup for Steffi and took an orange juice for myself. Sitting at the table I explained everything that had occurred. I could see how upset it all made Joe, but Carla was worse.“Oh, you poor dear,” she held Steffi around her shoulders. “You did the right thing. We women have suffered for centuries at the hands of men; well, not all men, thank God. I hate to say this, but your father sounds like a Neanderthal. How long will you be staying with us?”“Hopefully forever, if Rob will let me; I'm eighteen. Legally, I'm an adult.” I rested my hand on her neck and pulled her closer to kiss her cheek.“Let's eat and then we need to dress for church.” Carla made us pancakes with real maple syrup and lots of bacon. Once we had eaten we returned to the bedroom to dress. I allowed Steffi to enter first and pretended to pick something up from the floor. I grabbed her hand and turned her around. “I believe I'm in the traditional position,” I said as I knelt before her. Steffi began to shake as she realized what was afoot. Her hands flew to her face and tears appeared in her eyes as I spoke, “I had planned to do this around Christmas. God knows, you'd be the best present I ever received. I think you already know how much I love you. Would you be willing to spend the rest of your life with me; as my wife and lover? Steffi Goldwasser is an okay name, but I think Steffi Kerwood is much nicer. Steffi, will you marry me? Please?”“Oh, Rob! I knew we were serious about each other, but I never imagined you'd actually ask me.” She hesitated for a few seconds and closed her eyes, briefly wiping a tear from each eye. “Yes; oh, yes my darling. I will. You've answered all my prayers and all my dreams. I love you, Rob; so much.” I rose and we kissed. It was long and sweet and very romantic despite our hideous outfits; a couple of T's and some baggy shorts. We held each other for several minutes before she broke it. “C'mon, we have to get ready for church.” We dressed hurriedly and ran down to my car.I sang as usual, but when it came time for Communion I brought Steffi to the altar rail with me. She had never taken communion and she didn't take it now, but the pastor blessed us both, apparently knowing that we had pledged ourselves to each other. He commented after services, “Steffi; Rob, you two seem to be glowing this morning. Anything you'd care to share?”I looked at Steffi to let her know she could answer. “Pastor, Rob asked me to marry him this morning. Of course, I agreed.” She surprised me when she continued, “I think I'd like to be married here in your church. I always enjoy coming here. Everyone is so friendly and welcoming.” Pastor Anderson simply smiled and kissed her cheek. He shook my hand and told me I was a lucky man. I already knew that.We walked hand in hand to my car. I checked my phone, noticing there was a message from her father. “Send her back or there will be trouble.” That was it; short and to the point. I was tempted to reply, but I thought I'd rely on our ace in the hole; Steffi's mom. We went into Boston and spent the day walking in Boston Commons. We didn't do much other than walk and watch the people, especially the kids. I knew it was giving Steffi ideas, but having a family would have to wait. We went to dinner in the city and returned to my house in the early evening. We went straight to bed. We made love as we always did and slept through the night waking at 6:30 as was my habit.“Rob, remind me why we're getting up at this ungodly hour.”“So I'll have time to kiss you before my 8:00 class, okay? I have two classes and then we need to go shopping. After lunch we'll go to your house and pick up your clothes; some of them, anyway. I also want to talk to your mom. That's the most important thing.” I continued when she gave me a questioning look. “Your father phoned while we were in church yesterday. His message was as threatening as it was short. I don't want any trouble with him. I also don't want you here by yourself. I'm sure that Joe and Carla would defend you, but what would they do if the cops came? You're coming to class with me.” I kissed her good morning and we headed to the bathroom. I started the shower while she peed; I'd go later after the shower.Carla gave us a great breakfast and I drove to my first class. I introduced Steffi to my professors as my fiancé and I was finished by eleven. I took her hand and drove her to a jewelry store I knew of in nearby Somerville. The store had a small section of electronics, including stereos, headphones, and mp3 players, as well as a number of CD's. I showed one to Steffi. She recognized my face on the cover immediately. “Why didn't you tell me, Rob?”“It's not that big a deal. Nowadays everyone has a CD.” I didn't think it was a big deal, but the store owner obviously did; he asked me to sign two copies, one for each of his daughters. When I was done I asked to see some engagement rings. Again, Steffi melted and began to cry. She'd cried a lot over the past several days, but these were definitely tears of joy. We picked out a ring; a one carat solitaire; and I paid with my credit card. He gave me a ten percent discount, but only after having his employee take our picture with him. We placed him in the middle, put our arms around him and smiled. That photo cost him almost a thousand dollars.We grabbed a quick lunch at the local Wendy's and I drove toward her family home, but first Steffi phoned her mother. I was relieved to hear that the coast was clear. She and Steffi hugged once we arrived. Mrs. G. was very observant, noticing Steffi's ring before she had the chance to brag about it. “Rob was going to ask me around Christmas,” Steffi explained, “He told me I was going to be his best present ever, but this mess accelerated everything.”“Mrs. G, did you know that Steffi's dad called me yesterday? His message was short, ‘Return Steffi or there will be trouble.' I don't want to have any problems.”“I'll have another chat with him when he comes home this afternoon. I think I know exactly what to say. Let's get some clothes for you, Steffi.”“Mom, I want you to know that I plan to stay with Rob. I'm not coming home. I want us to get married soon.”“Are you sure, Steff?”“Yes, Mom even if Daddy apologizes; he hurt me so badly. I'm afraid it will happen again. I don't ever want to go through that again. I'm sorry, but that's how I feel.”“I understand, sweetie. I know Rob will take great care of you.” We took as many clothes as we could get into the car. The Subaru was small so there was a limit. Her mom told us she would bring some more later in the week after Steffi had celebrated her birthday. I also made sure she remembered her birth control pills.Dr.

 A visit with her mother.by senorlongo. Listen to the ► Podcast at Connected.The score was tied 0-0 at halftime. I waved to Steffi as she walked by into the gym. Her dad and Jeremy left to get some sodas out of their car. I found myself alone with Mrs. Goldwasser, her mother. “I want to thank you for last night, Rob,” she began. “You should know that Steffi and I have few secrets. She told me just about everything when she came in.” She saw the concern on my face and laughed, “No, don't worry. How many eighteen year old girls do you know who haven't had sex? What do you think I did when I was eighteen? I'm Jewish so I obviously wasn't trying to be a nun.“Until last night Steffi had sex with one boy. Now she's had sex with a man. Believe me, she much prefers the man over the boy. I've tried to explain how sex is about giving; both ways. Until last night I don't think she believed me. Now she does, so thank you very much. Don't mention anything to her father. He doesn't know and he acts like she's still ten. One of these days he'll wake up and she'll be engaged.” We talked about other things for a while until Jeremy and his dad returned with a cooler. I was offered a Coke, but I politely refused. However, I did accept an invitation to lunch.I walked down the bleachers to Steffi once the game had ended–a 1-0 loss on a penalty kick. I didn't know much about soccer, but I thought that Steffi had played well, not giving up any kind of advantage to the opposing team. I kissed her cheek and we talked quietly as we walked toward the school. I stopped outside after she told me she would see me after her shower. Her hair was still wet when she returned fifteen minutes later. I took her hand as we walked to my car.I was about to open the door for her when she spun me around and wrapped her arms around my neck. “Did you like the game?”“I liked the way you played, but I would have liked it better if you won.”“That doesn't happen very often; only once this year and we've played five games. This was actually one of our better efforts. Right now I think we should shut up and kiss.” It was hard to argue with that kind of logic. I leaned down slightly and pressed my lips to hers. It was just as sweet as I recalled. We kissed there for several minutes before we broke it, I think because she could hear my stomach growling.We were in the car when I commented that I'd had a very interesting conversation with her mother. “I'm sorry, Rob. I should have told you about our relationship. Mom and I talk about everything. I told her before our date that I thought I'd have sex with you. I knew; don't ask me how; that you'd be different; that you'd take care of me.”“I loved everything we did last night and I want it to happen again. I love making you cum. Watching you squirm around is a real turn-on. Oh; I have to go to a concert tonight. They want me to sing a couple of songs. The rest of the time we'll be in the audience like everyone else. I hope you don't mind.”“Gee; I get to go to a great concert and I get to hear you perform; why would I complain? It sounds great to me. We are going back to your house after, aren't we?”“We're going before, too. I have to dress, but I don't know what we'll be able to do.”“That's okay; I do! Let's just make sure we have enough time. Don't you have to warm up, or something?” I opened the door for her and we drove the short distance to her home. As expected Jeremy was out in the driveway with his basketball. He passed it to me; I dribbled behind my back and between my legs before taking a fifteen-foot jumper that hit nothing but net.“Awesome, Rob; can you teach me to do that?”“Well; I can show you, but it really is nothing more than practice. I used to practice dribbling with my eyes closed. The same thing about shooting with your off hand; it's nothing more than practice; practice; practice. You have to have some ability, but that alone won't cut it.” I passed the ball back to him and walked with Steffi into the house. Her father was already out back working with the grill. For someone whose job required incredible hand-eye coordination he was doing a terrible job. I offered to take over and he willingly walked away, leaving the grilling to me.Having grown up in an apartment I'd had no experience with any kind of grill until this past summer when I used one almost every noon and night until Carla and Joe were hired. I had learned a lot over those six weeks. I sectioned off the bulk chopped chuck with a steak knife and put my hands to work pounding out and shaping a bunch of burgers. Let's see; two for me, one for Steffi, one for her mom; . I made eight thinking that would be plenty. I seasoned them with salt and pepper and started the grill. Steffi brought out some rolls and gave me a kiss in the process. I was cooking away when she reappeared and kissed me again. “Uh; what's your dad going to say? Doesn't he still think of you as a ten year old?”“Unfortunately, he does, but he just went to the store. He'll be back in about ten minutes so I have that long to kiss you and convince you we need to do more later on this afternoon.”“Ha; that won't take much, but let's see you convince me.” She jumped into my arms and rammed her tongue down my throat. Steffi remained in that position for several minutes until I broke away to check the burgers. I had just put the rolls on the grill when her father appeared, explaining that he had forgotten his wallet. It was a close call, but I wasn't worried. I was pretty sure Steffi's mom had things under control and I found it hard to actually believe her father didn't realize that we had kissed a few times.I served the lunch at one o'clock sharp and I must have done a good job because everyone was stuffing themselves, including me. I suggested Steffi get ready because I would have to warm up before dinner. I explained that I always sang for an hour before performing to loosen my vocal cords and to check my pitch. I would have to do it early tonight because I was only a part-time performer and we were going to dinner first. She was ready just after two. I thanked her folks for lunch even though I was the chef. I took her hand and walked her to the car. Forty minutes later we were at my home. I took a few minutes to call the box office and order four tickets for Joe and Carla. I also reminded them that I would need two for Steffi and me. Both sets would be at the “Will Call” office.CHAPTER 4I turned around once I was done to find Steffi naked in the hallway, shaking her hot ass and waving those smooth white globes in my face. She slowly back-pedaled up the stairs, playing with her tits and leading me to the bedroom where I was sure she had some plans for me. I shed my clothes as I followed so all I was wearing were my sandals when I entered the room. She fell back onto the bed as I approached and I made a big show of “falling” onto her. We came together in a tangle of body parts. I kissed her lips before working my way down, kissing her neck, her tits, her belly. I stuck my tongue into her navel. She was obviously ticklish because she jumped up shrieking with laughter. I continued my journey down to her abdomen and my ultimate target. Once there I pulled her on top of me, her tasty cunt just over my chin.Steffi ran her fingernails up and down my shaft, teasing me as my cock jumped in response. I began to eat her delicious cunt; she lowered her head onto my cock, washing it with her tongue as she sucked and bobbed up and down. I attacked her cunt with my mouth, first covering the entire surface with my lips and sucking mightily. This caused her labia to engorge. In seconds they were swollen with her passion. I move in to her core, teasing her tunnel with my tongue. I knew I was getting to her in the same way she was getting to me. Steffi was squirming all over me; I was humping her mouth. I doubted that either of us could do anything to control our movements.I knew I was getting close so I shifted my attentions to her clit. I sucked it between my teeth, nibbling and sucking simultaneously. She came hard and fast, flooding my mouth with her ejaculate. I barely had time to warn her, “Steffi; I'm close.” She paid no heed and took my hefty load into her mouth and throat as a result. She squeezed the last drops from my wilting cock and licked them off with a smile. I could barely move so I pulled her around to me so I could hold and caress her while we recovered. We rose about twenty minutes later and showered. Steffi dressed and combed her hair while I put on my navy blue suit and tied my tie. Once done I went down to my studio to run through some scales. I always taped my practices so I could play them back for review. I was finished by five.We drove into Boston, heading for Faneuil Hall where I had reservations at Durgin-Park, famous for generations for its massive prime rib and seafood. It was an extremely expensive restaurant, but I was being well paid for my work tonight and I could afford to treat Steffi well. She had certainly treated me well over the past two days. We arrived on time for my 5:45 reservation. We dined extremely well and I drove over to Mass Ave. in plenty of time for the concert at Symphony Hall.We were seated on the aisle at a table in row eight and the usher showed me how to get onto the stage when called. My cue occurred when a huge screen was lowered from above the stage. An interview with Andrea Bocelli was played. I kissed Steffi and stepped into the aisle, from there to side of the stage. Bocelli was asked about young talent to replace the aging tenors, many of whom were now retired, and recently deceased Pavarotti. “There are several fine young tenors,” he said, “but the most outstanding comes from right here in the States. I've had the honor and pleasure of performing with him; Rob Kerwood is the outstanding tenor of the future.” The screen was raised to reveal me standing at a microphone center stage.The backup singers began without introduction, “Once you have found her never let her go; once you have found her never let her; .”I jumped in over the last, “go,” and sprang right into “Some Enchanted Evening,” following the rendition made popular by Jay Black and the Americans way back in 1965. I was aware of the first four or five words then I was somewhere else. Autopilot was the best way I could describe it; I was no longer in front of thousands of strangers; I was in my own mind relying on my years of instruction and practice. It was only at the very end of the song that I came back. The song ended and I bowed to the enthusiastic applause. I even heard a few “Bravo's” coming from the audience. I could make out Steffi and I could see she was beaming.I moved easily into my second song, “The Impossible Dream,” without saying a word. Everyone knew the song and it was very well received. It ended to very strong applause. I spoke now for the first time, “I really love this song because I live the impossible dream every day. I grew up in a single parent home, a two-bedroom apartment on the second floor above a busy street and a liquor store. My father took off before I was even born and my mother struggled to get by, often working two or even three jobs. I know of the sacrifices she made to get me to Julliard for lessons every Saturday for almost ten years. For me to be here on this stage is truly the impossible dream.”I went on to introduce my next song, “Every March there is a major singing competition in Dublin in which one and only one song is sung. Last year more than 1500 competed and I'm proud to tell you that I was the winner as I was the prior year. I hope you enjoy this song as much as the judges did. I'll bet that many of you know the beginning of this song, but that few know the ending which is very emotional. I couldn't get through it without crying when I first tried to sing it. Of course; I was only seven at the time.” There was some laughter in the audience and when it ended I took a deep breath and launched “Danny Boy.” My voice was full of emotion as I told the story in song of an old man who sends his only son off to war and prepares him for his return whether the father is alive or dead. It was one of my best ever performances. People leapt out of their seats when I finished and bowed. I turned to acknowledge the orchestra and I was truly astonished to see that they were standing and applauding, too. There were many calls for an encore.Conductor Heath Lockner told the audience of my concert series and asked if I could sing one of the Christmas songs. I suggested “Oh, Holy Night,” but the orchestra wasn't prepared so I decided to sing “a cappella.” I moved away from the microphone. I didn't need it if there was no orchestra behind me. I knew from experience that my voice would easily be heard anywhere in the auditorium. I could hear a pin drop, that's how quiet it was as the song built. I thought this was the most beautiful and by far the most difficult of the Christmas songs. I finished to wild acclaim, thanked Heath and the orchestra and strode off the stage and back to Steffi.It was intermission so everyone was up and about. I was stopped several times for my autograph before I reached her. She jumped into my arms and kissed me. “Oh Rob, you were fantastic; incredible. I can't believe I was actually here for it.” I put my arm around her and walked her up the aisle to where I saw Joe and Carla sitting. They greeted me with huge smiles and introduced me to their daughter and her husband. I could understand why they didn't like him; he came off like a cold fish, devoid of any personality. Worse, he couldn't help but scope out Steffi's body right in front of his wife. We chatted for a minute before I excused us, using thirst as an excuse.We ran into Stan, the business manager, in the lobby. He was ecstatic. They had sold more than 500 tickets to my future concerts during the intermission. He bought us a couple of Cokes and some popcorn. I shook more hands and signed more autographs on our way back to our seats. I took a close look at Steffi once we were seated; I saw total love and lust in her eyes. I was extremely pleased with both. Once the lights were dimmed she pulled my hand to her crotch. It was soaking wet; I was sure her dress was ruined. I looked at her again; she smiled lamely and shrugged her shoulders. “I couldn't help it. I love the way you sing. I didn't tell you, but I had two orgasms in Mrs. Sherman's class. I held her hand and gave her cheek a peck as the concert began again. We enjoyed the music, but, truthfully, there was somewhere else we'd rather be; home in my bed. That's where we were at 11:00 on the dot. I figured that would give us another hour or more of fun before I had to take her home.CHAPTER 5I opened the door and stepped aside for Steffi. She ran past me like she was on the soccer field. If I thought she might be tired I was definitely wrong. She was upstairs with her clothes off before I even made it to the bedroom door. “Eager, aren't we?”“You're damned right; clothes off now!” I almost laughed, but I could see how serious she was and this wasn't a time to start an argument. I folded my jacket over the chair, followed seconds later by my tie, shirt, pants and boxers. My shoes and socks fell quickly to the floor. There was no hiding my excitement; it was standing out perpendicular to my body and it felt as hard as a rock. Steffi reached for my hand and pulled me onto her. Her lips reached up for mine and we met in a sweet delicious kiss. I fell the rest of the way to the bed, savoring the sensation of her perfect smooth skin. Steffi's body was still tan from the summer with only her tits, pubic area, and ass snow white. I wrapped my arms around her, my hands finding the smooth globes of her ass. My fingers ran up and down her ass crack, pausing to tickle her puckered star. Steffi noticed immediately.“Oh! What are you doing back there?”“Just playing with one of the most sensitive parts of your body; did you know there are more nerve endings in your ass than in your cunt? If your cunt had as many as your ass; all you'd want to do is fuck.”Steffi laughed hysterically. “All I want to do now is fuck; you.” She gave me that little girl pout look that they all seem to know so well and is so effective on guys; except me!“Are you trying to tell me something, because I'm having trouble following you.”She gave me an exasperated, “Ah,” and pushed me onto my back. She straddled me and sunk swiftly onto my hard cock. “Do you understand me now? This is what I've wanted all night and I'll want again tomorrow and the day after that and; .”I put my fingers up to her lips. “I really do understand; it's exactly what I want, too. I don't know what I did before I met you, but I know this; I want it to go on and on and on. You're wonderful and you fuck pretty good, too.” She took one look at me and laughed. God, I loved the way she laughed. In fact, I loved an awful lot about her, especially the way she fucked.Steffi began to rock, grinding her clit into me. “Isn't this what they call clock management in basketball? Take a quick shot in the hope you'll get another before the end of the half?”“Huh?”“That's what I'm doing here; working for a fast one so we'll have plenty of time for another before you have to take me home. What a waste of time, taking me home. I should just stay here all night then we could really fuck.”“Maybe, but here's a thought; when I was a kid I wished we could have Christmas every day until my mother explained that having it once a year made it special. Having it every day would make it ordinary. Now, I'm not suggesting that sex with you would ever be ordinary, but there is a limit as to how often we can do it. We need to cultivate other interests, but not now. Oh God; definitely not now!” Thrusting into Steffi, I lifted her from the bed. We were both into it now; desperate to cum, needing to cum as much as we needed to breathe. We drove into each other at a furious pace; I could see the determination on her face and I was pretty sure I had the same expression on mine. This wasn't going to last forever, not at the intensity of our mating. Suddenly, Steffi's expression changed; she was feeling nothing but rapture now. She was only seconds away which was fortunate because I could feel it mounting deep within my groin. I pumped harder; faster; until at last! We erupted together like two volcanoes. Steffi shook with convulsion as my semen poured into her womb. Her eyes were glazed over when she collapsed onto my chest. I checked the clock; 11:13; not bad, we may yet be able to fuck again exactly as she planned.There was no rush now; we lay there together, two lovers in their post-coital bliss. I'd heard that expression before, but until I had met Steffi I thought it nothing more than a myth. Now there was nothing I enjoyed more than snuggling with her at this time. She lifted her head almost a half hour later, a silly grin on her face. I leaned up to kiss her which only served to make her grin bigger and sillier. I was about to ask her about it when she spoke, “I love doing this with you, Rob. It's so satisfying in so many ways. I can't even explain how I feel after you make me cum, except to say that I feel totally at peace. Does that make any sense?”“I think so,” I replied as I pulled her back to me, holding her even tighter than before, if possible. “I feel pretty much the same way, as though there's nothing in the world except you and me. The feeling is so exhilarating, like my whole body is glowing. I know it's awfully early in our relationship, Steffi, but I think I'm falling in love with you. I can't imagine living without you.”“Oh Rob, I feel the same way. I've never known anyone as sweet and loving a

Bonus Episode and Happy 4th! While you are celebrating enjoy this quick review of the history of Boston's 4th of July celebratory concert.

The Groveland Council on Aging's “EngAGEment Celebration and Symposium” this Saturday, features an address by Dr. Katharine Esty, author of “Eightysomethings,” workshops and connections to community resources.Groveland Council on Aging Director Alyssa Lee visited WHAV's “Win for Breakfast” show recently to welcome attendance at the free event and explain its purpose.“That is an opportunity to celebrate and promote community engagement and well being among older adults. It's an opportunity for the community to connect with local organizations as well as community members and just have general resources of the wealth of information that is around in our community to support our older adults in our community as well as care partners,” she said.Lee emphasizes the event is not just open to seniors and Groveland residents, but also to caregivers and those in surrounding communities.Esty talks about finding unexpected happiness in aging. Conversations and interactive workshops also center on aspects of aging, including community living, caregiver support, understanding Alzheimer's and dementia and exercise.The EngAGEment Celebration and Symposium takes place Saturday, June 29, from 10:45 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., at Pentucket Regional High School, 24 Main St., West Newbury. Lunch will be provided.After the event, Groveland's Council on Aging won't be slowing down this summer. Lee encourages everyone to read its newsletter online.“So in July and August, our newsletter comes out next month, which is on the town of Groveland website, there are lots of great trips, we have a van trip going out, we have lots of educational programs, including a transportation seminar where there's an opportunity to learn about all of the free, and paid for, services to make sure older adults can stay connected to their community.”Staying active is another important aspect to aging. She said there is a yoga program held outdoors on days when the weather is nice. There is also an exercise program that is a little more active, in addition to some social activities.“We do have cornhole and ping pong and we will have those as drop in opportunities starting in July, I think 11 a.m. to  1 p.m.”Before becoming Groveland's Council on Aging Director, Lee was involved on the arts. “Before that my professional career was focused on arts administration in the classical arts world. I had spent my career in Boston, most recently as executive director of Project Step, located in Symphony Hall, which was an amazing experience. Also, there is a big overlap between the classical music constituents and older adults, and I'm really glad to be where I am now.”Those interested in attending Saturday's EngAGEment Celebration and Symposium are advised to register by calling 978-372-1101 or visiting here.Support the Show.

It's day nine of the Help I Sexted My Boss live tour! William has a very special treat for Jordan, as he is about lose his colonic virginity. Hopefully he doesn't have any accidents on stage tonight at the Birmingham Symphony Hall. Join Sexted Extra and laugh along to William Hanson and Jordan North helping you navigate the challenges of modern life ad free at https://plus.acast.com/s/sextedmyboss. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Boston Arts Academy students got to pay tribute to a music legend at Symphony Hall over the weekend. WBZ's Carl Stevens reports.For more stories like this, ask your Alexa to play WBZ NewsRadio on #iHeartRadio.

Neil is a renowned percussionist, accomplished music educator, imaginative product innovator, and successful entrepreneur. He is the founder and president of Grover Pro Percussion Inc., a market leader in the design, manufacture, and distribution of world-class percussion instruments.  At the young age of 23, Neil was appointed Principal Percussionist of the Opera Company of Boston, a position he held for seven seasons.  As his career progressed, he found himself in demand for all musical genres, including symphony, chamber music, ballet, opera, and commercial recordings.  Highlights of his collaborations include the Royal Ballet, Bolshoi Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, Dance Theatre of Harlem, Music from Marlboro, Indianapolis Symphony, Boston Musica Viva, and the Empire Brass. He was chosen to record the percussion tracks for Phillip Glass' film soundtrack for Mishima. In addition, Neil appears as a Boston Pops percussionist in the hit movie Blown Away, starring Jeff Bridges and Tommy Lee Jones.  He has toured with Music From Marlboro, Boston Symphony, Henry Mancini, Boston Symphony Chamber Players, and the Broadway production of The Pirates of Penzance.  Since 1977, he has performed, recorded, and toured with the world-famous Boston Pops, where he has made music under the batons of Maestros Arthur Fiedler, John Williams, and Keith Lockhart.  Having performed regularly in the percussion section of the Boston Symphony for over 35 years, he has worked with Maestros Seiji Ozawa, James Levine, Leonard Bernstein, Aaron Copland, Colin Davis, Charles Dutoit, Colin Davis, Neemi Jaarvi, Rafael Fruhbeck de Burgos, Mstislav Rostropovich, and Bernard Haitink. It is noteworthy that Neil has performed in over 1,500 concerts as a percussionist with the BSO & Boston Pops. Neil's percussive talents have been heard by thousands at renowned venues, such as Boston's Symphony Hall, Carnegie Hall, Chicago's Orchestra Hall, and festivals at Tanglewood, Hollywood Bowl, Wolf Trap, Blossom, and Ravinia.  In addition, he has performed for millions of listeners through television and radio broadcasts on the NBC, CBS, NHK, PBS, A&E and NPR networks.  At the request of composer John Williams, Neil joined the multi-media musical extravaganza, “Star Wars in Concert”, serving as Principal Percussionist on two legs of their North American Tour.   Neil Grover has written/co-authored five publications: Four Mallet Primer, Four Mallet Fundamentals, Art of Triangle & Tambourine Playing, Percussionist's Cookbook, and The Art of Percussion Playing, all published by Meredith Music.  Neil's innovative designs and cutting edge manufacturing techniques have set a new standard for the ergonometric functionality of modern day percussion instruments. Neil and his company have been featured in many publications, including: Percussive Notes, Modern Drummer, School Band & Orchestra, Musical Merchandise Review and on two episodes of the Discovery Channel's series How It's Made. Formerly the Chair of the Percussion Programs at both The Boston Conservatory and the University of Massachusetts-Lowell, today, Neil's students occupy leading positions in many top performing, educational and music business organizations. Things That Came Up:  -1:45 Owning ALL the percussion instruments -3:50 The magic of Zelda -6:00 Studied with the same teacher as Dom Famularo -7:00 Studying with Vic Firth  -11:10 “Classical musicians play with their eyes and jazz musicians play with their ears” -12:10 “Talent got you this far, perseverance will carry you through.” -12:45 Took AFM pension at age 65  -13:50 Contracting, composing and arranging as a new life chapter -15:10 Bradley Cooper's “Maestro” -16:35 Being a frustrated stand-up -17:40 Fred Buda: “Playing drum set in an orchestra is like swinging an elephant” -19:40 How union pensions work -26:05 At Tanglewood at the same time as Kenny Aronoff, with Leonard Bernstein conducting! -27:40 Playing bongos for Bernstein's “West Side Story” -30:50 Star Wars Tour: Drum Tech, 7 percussionists, 3 conductors and music from all 6 Star Wars films -38:00 Follow your dreams, no matter what!  -40:00 “The Accidental Entrepreneur” -41:00 The FIRST Grover Triangle  -48:20 Allowing Redmond to help develop the “Studio Pro Series” pop tambourines -54:00 Selling Grover Percussion to RBI Music  -60:40 On screen percussionist in the “Blown Away” film, starring Tommy Lee Jones  -61:30 Authoring Books  -63:30 Aerosmith! Glocks!  -69:30 Neil's favorite axe is the piatti (cymbals)  -74:00 “The Fave 5”  Follow:  www.groverpro.com Email: ngrover@groverpro.com The Rich Redmond Show is about all things music, motivation and success. Candid conversations with musicians, actors, comedians, authors and thought leaders about their lives and the stories that shaped them. Rich Redmond is the longtime drummer with Jason Aldean and many other veteran musicians and artists. Rich is also an actor, speaker, author, producer and educator. Rich has been heard on thousands of songs, over 25 of which have been #1 hits.  Rich can also be seen in several films and TV shows and has also written an Amazon Best-Selling book, "CRASH! Course for Success: 5 Ways to Supercharge Your Personal and Professional Life" currently available at:     https://www.amazon.com/CRASH-Course-Success-Supercharge-Professional/dp/B07YTCG5DS/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=crash+redmond&qid=1576602865&sr=8-1   One Book: Three Ways to consume....Physical (delivered to your front door, Digital (download to your kindle, ipad or e-reader), or Audio (read to you by me on your device...on the go)!   Buy Rich's exact gear at www.lessonsquad.com/rich-redmond   Follow Rich: @richredmond www.richredmond.com   Jim McCarthy is the quintessential Blue Collar Voice Guy. Honing his craft since 1996 with radio stations in Illinois, South Carolina, Connecticut, New York, Las Vegas and Nashville, Jim has voiced well over 10,000 pieces since and garnered an ear for audio production which he now uses for various podcasts, commercials and promos. Jim is also an accomplished video producer, content creator, writer and overall entrepreneur.   Follow Jim:   @jimmccarthy www.jimmccarthyvoiceovers.com

An interview with Jenna Moynihan, a fiddler and an extraordinary member of the Boston music community. Jenna performs with harpist Mairi Chaimbeul, the Seamus Egan Project, the Hanneke Cassel Band, and has appeared as a soloist at Symphony Hall with the Boston Pops. In addition to touring, recording and teaching at fiddle camps, Jenna is also an Assistant Professor in the String Department at Berklee College of Music. Jenna Moynihan: https://www.jennamoynihan.com/Bandcamp: https://jennamoynihan.bandcamp.com/Mailing List: https://www.jennamoynihan.com/scheduleThe tune for this week is Brenda and Bill's a slow reel by Jenna Moynihan and Mairi Chaimbeul from the album One Two.Meg's new course How to Play Faster is available now on Fiddle Studio!Find Meg's fiddle albums for sale on Bandcamp.Find the sheet music for this fiddle tune on the Fiddle Studio blog. Get more information about Meg's books, courses, and membership for learning to play the fiddle at fiddlestudio.com.Keep in touch with Meg at meganbeller@fiddlestudio.com.

Lisa Vallen, the organizer behind “Fighting for Freedom: Labor and Civil Rights in the American South,” discusses the exhibition, which is on view through October at the new GSU Library. Plus, “Queer Eye” star Jonathan Van Ness discusses what real beauty means ahead of his upcoming comedy performance at Symphony Hall.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

An annual MLK Tribute Concert honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. takes place at Symphony Hall tonight. Boston Children's Chorus executive director Andres Holder joined Jeremy Siegel in studio to discuss Dr. King's legacy and how the Children's Chorus will honor him.

American bass-baritone and social media influencer, Daniel Brevik, is praised for having "a massive, focused, rich, warm timbre." Boasting an impressive following of over 65,000 monthly listeners on Spotify and 465,000 followers on TikTok. Brevik's singing and teaching channel extends even further, with a staggering 650,000 followers on Instagram - with over 100 million views across platforms which have amassed over 20 years of total stream time, effectively captivating audiences on a global scale. A recipient of Opera Theatre of Saint Louis' Richard Gaddes Career Grant, and the Wendy Shattuck Presidential Scholarship from the New England Conservatory, Brevik was hailed by The Washington Post for having "an impressive, sonorous voice" while Opera Today claimed he could "rattle the rafters one moment and be lullingly conversational the next." Brevik was featured on the cover of Opera News for creating the role of Ernest Hemingway in the world premiere of Ricky lan Gordon's Twenty-Seven. The album recorded with the Opera Theatre of Saint Louis and Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra is available on all major music platforms. Brevik later reprised his role with the orchestra of St. Luke's in his New York debut at City Center Theatre, and then again at Intermountain Opera in Bozeman, Montana. Notable venues Brevik has performed in include Boston's Symphony Hall, St. Louis' Powell Hall, Lyric Opera of Chicago's Civic Opera House, Amarillo Texas' Globe-News Center, Venice Italy's St. Marks Cathedral, and the Vietnam Opera and ballet in Hanoi Vietnam. In a recent collaboration with Bobby Bass and the Bass Singers of TikTok, their cover of "Hoist The Colours" garnered over 6 million views on Youtube and 8.5 million streams on Spotify. In 2022, Brevik was showcased on stage in concert with Pentatonix legend Avi Kaplan in Boston, MA. Brevik is on the voice faculty at The University of Hartford, and at the Falcetti School of Music in Simsbury, CT.    Peter and Danny talk about going viral on social media, performing opera on a professional level, getting to work with Avi Kaplan, travel stories, fitness, and much more. Please welcome Big Brev.

Tommy Thomas: Three years ago, I started a tradition on the podcast. I'm interviewing someone from the music industry for the episode being released the week of Christmas. My logic is that most people probably aren't doing much professional development this week. And rather than not have a release, I would default to something that is near and dear to my heart. I started taking piano lessons when I was seven. In high school, I played in a local garage band. In college, I sang folk music, and, in my twenties, I sang with a bluegrass group in Birmingham. In fact, one of the things on my bucket list is to play a set with the cover group, Jay and the Elders from Birmingham. So, Jim Blackman, if you're listening, I'm waiting on my invitation. Our guest this week is Dr. David Tolley, the Associate Professor and Director of The Music Industry Program at Delaware State University. David is a very talented composer, arranger, producer, and instructor. I believe you're going to love his story.​ [00:01:08] Tommy Thomas: Before we take too deep of a dive into your professional career, take us back into your childhood. What's your happiest memory? [00:01:17] David Tolley: Happiest memories of childhood. I'm one of eight kids. I'm number seven. And we were born, not really on a farm, but in Dublin, Ohio. [00:01:25] David Tolley: We had an apple orchard, chicken coop, and things like that, but it wasn't a full fledged farm. But we used to play Cowboys and Indians, hide and go seek. And playing with all my brothers and sisters probably was one of my favorite memories. [00:01:39] Tommy Thomas: What about the gifts your parents gave you? What's the greatest gift you remember? [00:01:44] David Tolley: Greatest gift or appearance? Probably the electric football game where you put the players on there and the game vibrates. Yeah. That was that. I had to think about that. I haven't thought about that in a long time yet. [00:01:56] Tommy Thomas:: Wow. We had one of those that was fun. [00:01:58] Tommy Thomas: Yeah. And what was high school like? [00:02:01] David Tolley: I went to Worthington High School, and it was great. I wasn't in the marching band or the choir because I was a pianist, and in junior year, Columbus started a brand-new performing arts school called Fort Hayes, and it was modeled after the one in New York and then one went down into Dallas. So it was experiential Columbus and it's still going, but went there my junior and senior year and half of the day to Worthington. So it was a lot of fun. I started composing for some theater things and other things. And I was valedictorian of the class when I graduated. But the only regret I have about that is I cut off my social life from my high school friends. Because I went down there at noontime and then was downtown Columbus. And you know how after high school, a lot of people, they have afterschool activities, and I was out of town. [00:02:56] Tommy Thomas: Yeah. I guess when you enrolled in Ohio State you knew you were into music by then. [00:03:01] David Tolley Yeah, I played sports, Tommy, and believe it or not, I used to play football and was quarterback and I played basketball and baseball, but I didn't grow to be huge, you know, like 6' 2”, 6' 3”. And so it started to hurt in middle school. So I got back into music heavy and I was just practicing all the time and I was lucky to get this pianist, Richard Telly Curtis, and he was head of the piano division at Ohio State and I got him in high school. I don't know how I got him. But he said he took me because I had a good smile. I don't know. I practiced all the time and that's performing arts school. They just kind of let me go and I would go down to the practice rooms and just practice all my whole time there. So I entered Ohio State and got a double bachelor's in piano performance and composition, and then got my master's in theory and composition before I moved out to Los Angeles. [00:03:55] Tommy Thomas: Had you started your PhD before you moved to Los Angeles? [00:03:58] David Tolley: Yeah, back then we were on the quarter system, so I had the first quarter and then I thought, wow, I'm only 21 or 22, I think. And I'm like, I'm doing my doctorate in music. I got into music to perform and to compose, mostly compose. So I thought, and I talked to my mom and I was playing at a church, Liberty Presbyterian Church, all through college and stuff. [00:04:22] David Tolley: They didn't want me to go and my mom of course didn't want me to go, but she actually gave me her blessing and packed up my rabbit and moved out to Los Angeles. [00:04:31] Tommy Thomas: Wow. Yeah, I can see Los Angeles. Back then, Nashville wasn't in the scene. I guess it would've been LA or New York probably your two options. What was the early days like in Los Angeles as a fledgling musician? [00:04:45] David Tolley: Yeah, it was scary. I tell these stories to my students because they have the itch in them, these young college kids, and I'm like, you know what, if it's really on your heart and you're passionate about it, you gotta try it now because you might be regretful later on. So I was scared to be honest, and because I only knew one person out there. I took every other thing I had in a VW Rabbit and I went to North Hollywood, and that was the year that they had Richard Ramirez, the Hillside strangler, and then all of the freeway shootings. I was like, what did I do? But after about a year, it settled in and I was fine. [00:05:25] Tommy Thomas: I'm going to probably not remember the details from how you told it years ago, but as I remember you told me that your brother came out to visit you one Christmas and y'all ended up at the Johnny Carson Show. Can you fill in the details there and tell our viewers a little bit about that? [00:05:42] David Tolley: Okay. So being one of eight kids, I was number seven, and my youngest brother was number eight. We pretty much grew up without a dad and so my mom thought, this is David's first Christmas away from home. And Christmas was a big thing, eight kids and the Christmas tree and gifts. So she was very wise and sent my youngest brother out to visit me. And for a week we went to the beach, we went to all these different things. The Hollywood Stars, Beverly Hills houses, went to where the Lakers played and everything. And then he had the idea to go, hey, can we go to The Tonight Show?  I don't know how to do that. [00:06:20] David Tolley: It was like his last day. And so he called up and he said, all you have to do is show up in line in Burbank and wait outside. So, we did after we had gone to the beach all day, and then we walk inside and we got in barely. And we were about three quarters of the way back in the audience. And it was Johnny's last show before he went on Christmas break the next day. And it was a Friday night, I think it was December 19th, 1985. And Johnny comes out with no preparation during the monologue, he said, you know what, you're all in the Christmas spirit, and we have a dilemma tonight. We scheduled this beautiful nine-foot Steinway piano that we had imported in for the classical pianist, Ori Gutierrez, who won the Van Clyburn Award. And the only thing is, he nipped his fingers because he shut his hand in the car door accidentally. His career's not hurt. But he doesn't feel like playing. And so, we have a dilemma. I'll let you know after the commercial break what we're going to do. And so he comes back, he goes, you know what? We're going to try something we've never done before. Is there anyone in the audience that plays a piano? And so I didn't even know what was going on. My brother raises my hand and before I know it, I have a Nike T-shirt and jeans and flip flops, and I'm playing on a nine foot Steinway for 28 million people. [00:07:42] Tommy Thomas: Wow. I'm just thinking what was going through Carson's mind. My gosh what a mistake it could have been. [00:07:49] David Tolley: Yeah, he actually mentioned that. Actually you can see it on YouTube. He says, wow, this could have been a real bomb. And actually, he picked a woman to go first and she played silver bells and she was good. And but he said, just in case she lays a bomb, is there someone else?  And that's when he picked me. [00:08:08] David Tolley: He was pretty amazed of the crowd's reaction.  [00:08:12] David Tolley: He put his hands up the air like, I don't believe this, so it was fun. I didn't know Tommy; I didn't know I was playing for all these people. It was kind of like a dream. I went up there, I was smiling and, back in Ohio, for the church for years, and then I used to play a lot of parties, so I thought, oh, this is fun. I'll just start playing. I didn't know all those 28 million people were watching, so I was winking at the audience. I pretended I had tuxedo on. I was just goofing off. I was a little clowned, but I guess the audience really liked that. [00:08:45] Tommy Thomas: So everybody can Google I guess David Tally the Tonight Show and you can see the YouTube of this. So what did you play? How did you think about it, or did you just go up and just start playing? [00:08:58] David Tolley: I must've been on autopilot because I barely remember the show. I know it happened, but we only had a minute to think. And so I though, the Cats was real popular at the time, the musical, so I said, how about Memories from Cats? He goes, oh, that's great. And I went up and played. [00:09:17] David Tolley: After I got done, you can see on the video, the audience was just clapping and roaring. And I touched Johnny's hand, oh wow, that worked out. And so yeah, it was fun. Johnny was super nice to me. Both shows. I left and they got my name and number and stuff like that. And I went with my brother back to my little studio apartment in North Hollywood and he was like, he kept on hitting me in the arm going, did that really happen? Did that really happen? So, it was a great way to end the week with my younger brother and actually my dad's mom, Grace , who I partially dedicated Amazing Grace, my variation, and she had never seen me play the piano and she was 92 at the time. She lived to be 99. My whole family got to watch it. My grandmother that never saw me play got to see it. So it was neat. +++++++++++++= [00:10:12] Tommy Thomas: So, what did you play on your second appearance? [00:10:15] David Tolley: They called, they had lost my number somehow, so they put a search team out because Johnny came back and Grant Tinker was the CEO of NBC. And he called Johnny the next day. He says, boy, that was great planning that kid on the show. Johnny goes no. I didn't plan it. I just took a chance. He goes, what? So he said, we have to have him back. We have all these letters and phone calls. We gotta let them know. And so Johnny goes, yeah, that'd be great. So they actually called me and I was in North Hollywood. I answered the phone. I still remember, it was lunchtime. They said, hey we have so many letters and phone calls. We really have to have you back on the show so we can explain to the audience this is really what happened. I actually said no. I said, I'm a composer. I'd be too nervous. He said, yeah, but what you just played on there? I'm like, yeah, I didn't know was going on. [00:11:07] David Tolley: So they said, let me call you back after lunch. And I still remember, Tommy, I got my little can of Chicken Noodle soup, Campbells, and I cooked it and put it on my spoon. I could not even keep a noodle on my spoon. I was shaking. So, I had a week to think and I thought, you know what? This is a great opportunity to give glory to God, and do my theme and variations on amazing grace. I wrote it for the church when I left because they had a wide variety of people that some liked pop, some like gospel, some like straight hymnals, some like country, some like jazz. I thought, you know what, it's all music to me as a composer. It's just an attitude of the heart. And so, I did my theme and variations on Amazing Grace as a gift to them. And for my gram Grammy Grace. And so I played that and Johnny, at first they thought, oh, that might be too religious. And actually Johnny said no - let him play what he wants to play. And anyway, so that's what I played. [00:12:08] Tommy Thomas: Wow. And what was the immediate aftermath of that? Did you see any uptick in any opportunities to record or to write? [00:12:17] David Tolley: Yeah, I got to see the great side of Hollywood, and the bad side. Because I had like agents, managers, it was so confusing. From a little town, at the time it was a small town, a suburb of Columbus and I didn't know anything about the music business. I had what, three degrees and started my doctorate, but I didn't have one music business course. Nothing about contracts or intellectual property or anything.  [00:12:40] David Tolley: I was very confused and the White House saw it and they said, we would like you to play at Easter time at the White House. I'm like, okay. And I was actually the MC for the Easter Fest. I actually showed up at the White House and they booked a hotel and brought me in. They said, you know what? We know you're playing and performing, but we'd like you to be the MC. And they handed me a script. I'm like, I wish you guys would've told me. But anyway, so a lot of things like that. I tried out for some movie parts. Madonna and Michael Jackson's manager had a record deal that they were working on, which didn't work because, like I said I saw the good and the bad and a lot of things like that. A lot of projects, some TV and film projects that I did. [00:13:28] Tommy Thomas: As I remember for a while, weren't you Mayor Bradley's pianist of record for a lot of his parties? [00:13:36] David Tolley: Oh wow. Yes. Wow. I haven't heard that name in a long time. Yeah I did. Even though I was out there as a composer, I still was a pianist, and I would still play on people's albums. A lot of rock bands that were signed that didn't have people or players. I was a studio musician that would come in and play and in between projects, if it was a cartoon or scoring an anime film or TV show. I did a lot of stuff for ABC, CNBC and CBS. But there are gaps. There are gaps in between projects, so I always kept up my playing. So, I was playing at the Bel Air Country Club for years, and I played, which when you're out in the public Mayor Bradley saw me and I played so many functions for him. And I played Muhammad Ali's birthday party and I'll never forget it. Muhammad came up and his Parkinson's had set in and he came up to the piano during his birthday, and he wrote me a poem. He was shaking and he was always one of my favorite athletes of all time. And then just a lot of parties and things because they're just people that happen to live out there. And since I'm out in the public I did a bunch of parties for Clint Eastwood and I remember one party in Malibu that I was sitting, it was just a cliff with nothing but glass, looking at the ocean. And I'm like, okay, I'm showing up for this birthday party. So out there and all of a sudden right next to me is Walter Mattau. Right behind me is Gregory Peck, Jack Lemon, Marlon Brando. I'm like, what's going on here? And it was a birthday party for their acting coach, Stella Adler. So it was a party, and I played Hello Dolly for Carol Channing to sing. And my mom would've been in heaven if she would've been there. So yeah, I had a lot of neat experiences like that. [00:15:29] Tommy Thomas:  And then somewhere along the way you got connected with Disney. [00:15:33] David Tolley: And that actually wasn't a result of the Tonight Show. That was, I forget how many years later, five or six years later. Because all that hype and everything slowed down. My phone was off the hook. I was like, oh boy. Yeah, I didn't know what to do. And I probably made a lot of bad decisions. [00:15:54] David Tolley: But I finally settled down to be a composer and play in between. And Disney got ahold of one of my first CDs and they were doing a new park in Paris or Euro Disney. And they took the music from Frontier, Leanne? I forget the land shoot. This is terrible. Anyway, tomorrow land and, this is a brand-new park, and they wanted a brand new lands called Discovery Land. And so it had all these explorers and things like Jules Verne and thing themed rights. I was lucky that out of, I don't know, hundreds or thousands of composers that wanted to do the theme music for this land, I got the job. So I did a two hour soundtrack for piano and orchestra. And it still plays. It opened in 1992 and I still see my, it's not great royalties, but it's, yeah, I'm not going to turn them down. Every quarter I see royalties from my music that's playing 18 hours a day. [00:16:55] Tommy Thomas: So, looking back on the Southern California portion, what's your biggest takeaway? [00:17:03] David Tolley: That's a good question. Just, probably hang on to God, hang the thick and the thin though it wasn't always great times. There were sometimes it was very thin, and I bought a house in Woodland Hills, started having kids and those were great years and then there was some thin years. But God's grace was with me the whole time, and it's exciting. It's not for everybody. In fact, my younger brother moved out there, a lot of friends moved out there. They saw the hype, and within a year they moved out because it's like a concrete jungle. And you have to love the creativity. That's what I liked about it. And it's not for everybody. +++++++++++++= [00:17:45] Tommy Thomas:  What brought you back east and how did you decide it was time to finish that doctorate? [00:17:52] David Tolley: Good question. So basically, I told my mom when I started my doctorate and when I was making that decision to move out to LA, I'm like, I will finish this. I will finish. I wanted to be a brain surgeon, I ended up going into music. So, I said, Mom, I will be a doctor. And I still remember that conversation. So my wife, we had four kids and we were out in Los Angeles. We had a house, a pool, a studio, and she got cancer. And she was from Ohio too and she had a cancer called MOC Sarcoma, a soft tissue cancer. [00:18:26] David Tolley: So, it was an extremely hard decision because the kids had all their friends in middle school and stuff like that. We had a great setup. I was finally out there living, and doing what I love to do, but thought, it's pretty serious stage four cancer. So we moved back to be with her family, my family and the support. She fought it for a good three and a half years and then passed. [00:18:50] Tommy Thomas: How did you, as someone that's never had that kind of experience, how did you get through that? [00:18:56] David Tolley: Oh, it was all God. It really was God. And it's funny that, through most of life, at least for me, it's a pretty constant relationship. But in those very trying times, it's almost like you can hear him breathe. I mean it's very real and that's really what kept me going. Prayer, the church and support. [00:19:18] Tommy Thomas:  You finished your doctorate; you became that doctor that you had promised your mom. [00:19:22] David Tolley: Right. [00:19:23] Tommy Thomas: So now you're on the faculty at Delaware State. Tell us about that. I guess you commute from Columbus to the campus periodically or regularly. [00:19:32] David Tolley: You'd think I was a nut, I probably was, but I moved back to LA, finished, and I thought, Mom, I'm not in an entertainment town anymore. I have to think of a living now. So, I finished my doctorate, and I started Ohio State Music Industry Program from textbook stuff and then real live street knowledge that I gained out there. [00:19:52] David Tolley: The only thing is they started it and everything and built the studios. Boom. And it came time to get the director of the music industry program and I already started the curriculum and everything. They had a new director and I guess they went by the rules. I had one quarter left to go or two and they were doing a search, and they couldn't hire someone unless they had already been an assistant associate, an associate. They wanted a director and I was just finishing up my doctorate so I couldn't even be on the table. My faculty was furious, but that was a hard blow to me. And I finished up and I thought, you know what? I guess I just gotta keep on looking. I've had four or five job offers. One in New Orleans. One was in the Midwest, like in Indiana. I forget the name of the school. But Delaware State, I could fly there to Baltimore in one hour and commute. You thought, why don't you move the family there? If you remember, I moved the family home to bite the cancer. Because they have a great cancer center at Ohio State. And I did that every Monday into Thursday for 10 years. Every single week. I flew there and then now after Covid. I talked to the Dean, and I was full professor now and with tenure, so I was able to say things like this. I was like, I can't travel like this anymore. I'm too old. This airport thing, and Covid, so they made me a deal that I come at the beginning, the end and in the middle. And the rest of the time I'm home. [00:21:31] Tommy Thomas:  I do a lot of work in higher ed, and I ask all my higher ed people this question. What was the greatest lesson that you learned through Covid that you think you'll take forward in your career? [00:21:43] David Tolley: It's being a global world in and with the way broadband is and connections. It took a while to get used to online teaching, and some of my students really like it because they can stay in their apartment or dorm and listen and but sometimes they really miss the one-on-one contact, at least showing them something in the studio or at the piano. But it seems like the tools are getting better and I do all my pro tools and other things. I share my screen, they can hear it, they see it, things like that. But just the question about AI and everything, I still think, that human heart, spirit, that's hard to put into computer code. [00:22:31] Tommy Thomas: I know you're not a conductor but you probably own the fringes of conducting.  I'd like to ask you to respond to this quote from Ben Zander, the Boston Philharmonic. He says, the conductor doesn't make a sound. The conductor's power depends upon his or her ability to make other people powerful. [00:22:51] David Tolley: Wow, that's a great quote. Yeah, there are great conductors and then there are beginning conductors and even at the bus in Symphony Hall when I saw Beethoven's ninth, it's amazing. There are great leaders. They're going through the same gestures of downbeats and expressiveness of dynamics and things like that, but they have such a charismatic power that kind of pulls energy out of the orchestra that they go to new heights that other people can't do. +++++++++++++++ [00:23:29] Tommy Thomas: Yeah. So I'd like to close out with a lightning round of questions. These are generally short answers, but sometimes not. Yeah. [00:23:38] David Tolley: Okay, I'll keep it short. [00:23:39] Tommy Thomas: What's been the greatest invention in your lifetime? [00:23:45] David Tolley: Probably the internet. [00:23:47] Tommy Thomas: What's the best compliment anybody's ever paid you? [00:23:55] David Tolley: I still get comments from that Tonight Show. In fact, I got three this morning. It's crazy. It was so long ago. But I remember a lady, her email, it is almost like you could see her cry. She was, I guess losing someone in the hospital and she would play that over and over for their family member and she said, I felt like you're playing that from heaven for us. [00:24:17] Tommy Thomas:   So if you could go back in time and tell a younger version of yourself one thing, what would that be? [00:24:28] David Tolley: Find what you're really passionate about. Spend some quiet time in prayer, away from the noise and screens. Once you have that down, educate yourself as much as you can, take chances, because God's going to be there with you. [00:24:45] Tommy Thomas: If you could meet any historical figure and ask them one question, who would it be and what would the question be? [00:24:56] David Tolley: My favorite composer of all time is Beethoven. So I would've loved to have met him and since he wrote the whole ninth Symphony in his head, and he was an outcast. People thought he was crazy, but he couldn't hear and he'd walk through town and he had a terrible childhood, but he kept on writing music and I'd love to know what kept him going. [00:25:17] Tommy Thomas:  What's the most worthwhile lesson you've learned so far in your career? [00:25:35] David Tolley: Boy, you just stumped me. I wrote a musical on Solomon, and it's never been mounted. And but one of the main themes of that is chasing the wind and you can have all this stuff, all these riches, all this stuff, but if you don't have God, it's nothing.  It's empty. ++++++++++++++++++++++= [00:25:51] Tommy Thomas: I hope you enjoyed this podcast. After we turned the recording button off David and I were talking and he told me that he is expecting one of his musicals to appear off Broadway sometime in the spring of 2024. If you want to bring some laughter to your day, watch the two YouTube clips of David's first and second appearances on the Johnny Carson Show. The first appearance will have you in stitches. Only Johnny Carson could do the setup like he did for David. I've included links to both appearances in the episode notes. January brings us to a new year for the podcast. And I'm pleased with the guests that we've lined up so far. Next week, our guest will be a man who's been the president of three different universities. One of these being a startup. He has a lot to share about leading institutions of higher education through the various stages of their life cycles.   Links & Resources JobfitMatters Website Next Gen Nonprofit Leadership with Tommy Thomas The Perfect Search – What every board needs to know about hiring their next CEO David Tolley's first appearance on the Johnny Carson (the Tonight) Show David Tolley's second appearance on the Johnny Carson (the Tonight) Show David Tolley's interview with Scott - the Piano Guy David Tolley's Interview - the 200 Year Anniversary of Liberty Presbyterian Church   Connect tthomas@jobfitmatters.com Follow Tommy on LinkedIn   Listen to Next Gen Nonprofit Leadership with Tommy Thomas on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Google Podcasts    

SynopsisOn today's date in 2000, the Boston Symphony gave the premiere performance of the Second Symphony of American composer John Corigliano. For strings alone, the symphony was a reworking of a string quartet that Corigliano had composed for the farewell tour of the Cleveland Quartet in 1996.The symphony was well received, and the following year was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for music. “I am more than shocked. ... I don't know what to say,” Corigliano said upon receiving the news. “It's one of the great surprises of my life.”Perhaps doubly surprising, since, as a young man, Corigliano pretty much ruled out writing even one symphony, let alone two. “My thought then,” he said, “was that there were so many great symphonies [already]. I could satisfy only my ego by writing yet another. Only the death of countless friends from AIDS prompted me to write my Symphony No. 1. ... A world-scale tragedy, I felt, needed a comparably epic form.“Then the Boston [asked] that I write a second symphony to honor the l00th anniversary of their justly famous Symphony Hall. At first I declined, stating my earlier reservations, but they were quite insistent.”Music Played in Today's ProgramJohn Corigliano (b. 1938) String Quartet; Cleveland Quartet Telarc 80415

Holiday Pops was first introduced on December 21, 1973, under the name “A Pops Christmas Party.” Over the decades, the series has become more inclusive with diversified programming and grown from just three concerts to 39 at Symphony Hall.

On Saturday November 23rd, 1963, with the country in a state of shock and mourning, Music Director Erich Leinsdorf led the Boston Symphony orchestra in the compositions of Gluck, Wagner, and Beethoven. John Kennedy was the grandchild of former famous Boston mayor John “Honey Fitz” Fitzgerald. The concert was given at Symphony Hall in honor of the slain son of Boston. Elsewhere, numerous famous people gave statements on the assassination. The next morning, Sunday November 24th, despite being surrounded by a crowd of police officers at the Dallas Police headquarters, Lee Harvey Oswald was shot and mortally wounded by nightclub owner Jack Ruby on live TV while being transported to the Dallas County jail. Ruby shot Oswald in the abdomen, at point blank range, with a .38 caliber revolver. The shooting took place at 11:21 a.m. local time. Oswald was taken into surgery at Parkland Memorial Hospital. He died at 1:07 p.m., never to face trial. That Sunday, thousands of people around the world went to Sunday mass in memory of the fallen President. Later an LP called That Day With God was produced with excerpts from several of these inspirational expressions. It included Pope Paul VI, The Archbishop of Canterbury and Richard Cardinal Cushing. I'll let Henry Fonda read the last one.

Welcome to the People Hidden in History Podcast series, You will hear a brief preview of an upcoming podcast episode – to be recorded and released later this fall. This is to be a follow-up episode from August 2022, which was an interview with Mark Ludwig, Director of the Terezin Music Foundation. The episode focused on Viktor Ullman, a composer and music critic, who was a prisoner at the Terezin concentration camp. However, this upcoming episode will focus on the many talented women at Terezin (pianists, composers, educators). These women comforted and enriched the life within the walls of this concentration camp. The Robert Schumann piano piece you hear at the beginning and end, was known to have been played by women pianists at Terezin.  To highlight these women, the Terezin Music Foundation – is excited to give them their due on the great stage of Symphony Hall in Boston at their next Gala Event on November 19th (details here).  Do listen to the first podcast (link here), that will give a better understanding of life at Terezin, and how those living there were under constant threat of deportation to Auschwitz but also how music still could enrich their spirits. 

Dalton Trigg and Drew Johnson recap Dirk Nowitzki's epic Hall of Fame weekend. Trigg was at Symphony Hall in Springfield to take it all in, and tells us what it was like being there firsthand. From there, the guys discuss two Dallas Mavericks schedule leaks that have already come out, and how the full schedule should be dropping soon. Thanks for listening! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Follow Jimmy: Twitter Substack Instagram Youtube Jimmy's Jobs Website Not many people can say they've supported 10,000 young people but Bejay Mulenga isn't just anyone. Bejay is a multi award-winning serial social entrepreneur dedicated to teaching entrepreneurs the skills they need to take their business to the next level. Jimmy met Bejay shortly after he captivated 3000 people speaking at the Birmingham Symphony Hall... George Osbourne had a tough act to follow. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of The Talk, we discuss how we are implementing the things we learned in last week's podcast on mindful eating with the Nutrition Diva. We also discuss mindful cooking, enjoying your food, silent meditation retreats, Eddie's stint at Symphony Hall, and the secret to the Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl... It's a fun time!  Join The Foodie Fam membership: https://www.patreon.com/FWNTT  Check out our book! Follow us on Instagram @foodweneedtotalk. Find Juna on Instagram @theofficialjuna, and @JunaGjata on YouTube and TikTok.

How do you get to Symphony Hall? Practice!.. or, pay them a bunch of money to let you and your more talented friends entertain some paying public radio fans for a few hours. Guess which route our boys took? Find out on this episode of the Best of Car Talk.

Phil Snedecor is the author of Making Rain and Other Adventures on the Trumpet, a highly personable and oftentimes entertaining glimpse into the career of a musician who's "done it right". Of course, there have been some pitfalls and mistakes along the way, and Phil doesn't pull any punches about those. But at the end of the day, the short book delivers a ton of value and sage advice for anyone who is looking to "make rain", be it as a musician or in any field.I've featured Phil several times on my Trumpet Dynamics podcast, and now I'm thrilled to be able to share this brand new interview with you!In this interview with Phil Snedecor, you'll discover:-What is a "rainmaker" pertaining to musicians?...03:35-How Phil cut his teeth as a rainmaker by founding the Washington Symphonic Brass...06:10-You won't have a great connection with your audience unless you have a connection among the personnel...11:00-Phil explains the mantra, "The only gig you own, is the gig you own"...16:20-"Mental choreography" and tips on succeeding in high-stress performance situations...21:10-Finish what you start, even when everyone around you thinks you're nuts to do so!...25:30-And much more!Resources mentioned:Hart School Trumpet StudioPhil's websiteWashington Symphonic BrassAll-American Moving CompanyMaking RainHard copyApple BooksAbout the guest:Phil Snedecor attended the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, New York, where he received the prestigious Performers Certificate and was a member of the premiere brass quintet, the Canterbury Brass. While earning his degrees in trumpet performance and literature, he also studied arranging and composition with Professor Rayburn Wright, formerly arranger for Radio City Music Hall. Mr. Snedecor is a former member of the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra and has held one-year positions with the National Symphony, the Kennedy Center Opera House Orchestra and the Baltimore Opera. Mr. Snedecor has performed and toured throughout the United States, Europe and Asia, and has appeared as guest principal trumpet with the St. Petersburg (Russia) “Tschaikowski” Orchestra, joining them on their 2012 US Tour. Recently Mr. Snedecor has been in demand as a guest principal with the Pittsburgh Ballet Orchestra and the Louisville Orchestra, and as guest trumpeter for the Boston Pops and Boston Symphony, both at Symphony Hall in Boston and at Tanglewood in Lenox, MA.As a show player, he has performed in the touring productions of Guys & Dolls, Phantom of the Opera, Beauty and the Beast, Peter Pan, Evita and West Side Story. He has recorded under the RCA, CBS, Gothic, Koss, and Summit labels. Phil's solo CDs, The Lyrical Trumpet I and II are also available on the Summit Label.In 1993 Mr. Snedecor and National Symphony Principal Trombonist Milton Stevens co- founded The Washington Symphonic Brass, a 17-piece professional brass ensemble. They perform regularly for the Washington National Cathedral, St. Matthew's Cathedral, the Basilica at the Shrine of the...

This June Larry "the Cable Guy" will be in Atlanta at a Symphony Hall. He talked about golfing, getting out of speeding tickets, and the tour with MKO.

Plus, we speak with conductor Keith Lockhart about the upcoming Holiday Pops concert series at Symphony Hall.

CHRISTINE EBERSOLE, is currently celebrating her new album After the Ball from Club44 Records, has captivated audiences throughout her performing career. Recognized with a string of honors that includes two Tony Awards, she has appeared in twenty Broadway and Off-Broadway productions, as well as gracing television series and specials, films, concerts, recordings and opera. It was for her “dual role of a lifetime” as Edith Beale and Little Edie Beale in Grey Gardens that Ebersole won her second Tony Award for Best Leading Actress in a Musical, as well as virtually every available Off-Broadway honor. Other memorable New York roles include her Tony-winning turn as Dorothy Brock in the hit revival of 42nd Street, her Tony-nominated portrayal of Elizabeth Arden opposite Patti LuPone in War Paint, her Tony- and Outer Critics Circle-nominated appearance in Dinner at Eight, her Obie-winning and Drama Desk-nominated appearance in Alan Bennett's Talking Heads, her performance as Guinevere alongside Richard Harris and Richard Burton in Camelot, and her leading roles in Oklahoma!,On the Twentieth Century, Steel Magnolias, The Best Man, and the revival of Noël Coward's Blithe Spirit. In 2018 she made her operatic debut under James Conlon's leadership as the Old Lady in Francesca Zambello's production of Candide at LA Opera. Recently starring as Lucille Dolittle, a role based on Lucille Ball, in Paul Thomas Anderson's Oscar-nominated Licorice Pizza, Ebersole has appeared in numerous feature films. Previous film credits include The Wolf of Wall Street, Amadeus, Black Sheep, Dead Again, Folks!, Ghost Dad, My Girl 2, Richie Rich, Tootsie, True Crime, and The Big Wedding, which features her account of her original song “Gently Down the Stream.” Since launching her TV career alongside Eddie Murphy as a regular cast member of “Saturday Night Live,” Ebersole has also accrued a long list of television credits. Currently starring in Chuck Lorre's hit CBS sitcom “Bob Hearts Abishola,” she recently portrayed Estelle Schneider in the award-winning Netflix series “The Kominsky Method,” and has appeared on “American Horror Story,” “Blue Bloods,” “Madam Secretary,” “Murphy Brown,” “Pose,” “Search Party,” “The Colbert Report,” “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt,” “Will & Grace” and Gypsy, in which she played Tessie Tura to Bette Midler's Mama Rose. Ebersole has performed at some of the nation's foremost concert halls, including New York's Carnegie Hall, L.A.'s Disney Hall, Boston's Symphony Hall and the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC. Her concert highlights include appearances in San Francisco Symphony's tribute to Leonard Bernstein, concert versions of The Grapes of Wrath at Carnegie Hall and of A Little Night Music with the Boston Pops, and Gershwin at 100: A Celebration at Carnegie Hall and The Rodgers & Hart Story: Thou Swell, Thou Witty, both of which were filmed for broadcast on PBS TV. A celebrated recording artist, her discography includes Christine Ebersole: Live at the Cinegrill, In Your Dreams, Sunday in New York, Christine Ebersole Sings Noël Coward, and Strings Attached. www.christineebersole.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Synopsis On today's date in 1944, a 29-year-old American composer named David Diamond had his Second Symphony premiered by the Boston Symphony under the famous Russian conductor Serge Koussevitzky. Diamond says he had written this music for the charismatic Greek maestro Dimitri Mitropoulos, then the music director of the Minneapolis Symphony. “Mitropoulos had given a fine performance of my First Symphony,” said Diamond. “When I showed him the score of the Second he said, ‘you must have the parts extracted at once!' As these were readied, I asked him whether he was planning to perform the work. He then told me he thought he would not stay on in Minneapolis, but said, ‘Why don't you send it to Koussevitzky?' I did so, and Koussevitzky [invited me to a] trial reading at Symphony Hall. When it was over, the orchestra applauded like crazy. Koussevitzky turned to me and said, ‘I will play!'” Successful as Diamond was back in 1944, for many decades thereafter his neo-Romantic symphonic scores were neglected until Gerard Schwartz's CD recordings of some of them with the Seattle Symphony sparked a revival.  By then, Diamond was in his 70s, and commented: “The romantic spirit in music is important because it is timeless.” Music Played in Today's Program David Diamond (1915-2005) — Symphony No. 2 (Seattle Symphony; Gerard Schwarz, cond.) Delos 3093

A story of human triumph: A young child is rescued from life on the streets, fostered, and mentored. He chases a dream to play classical music, and now as a mentor himself, he encourages others to dream big. With humility and humor, Richard Antoine White shares his unique journey.Guest: Richard Antoine White, author of "I'm Possible: A Story of Survival, a Tuba, and the Small Miracle of a Big Dream"; principal tubist for the Santa Fe Symphony and the New Mexico Philharmonic; Associate Professor of Tuba/Euphonium at the University of New Mexico

We have another NNS/DBG/NNS from September 21st & 22nd, 1996. Title: Cruising the Radio Waves Tom Howie was producing. We begin with a couple of jokes from a caller, Bruce the skip to Norm talking to Linda about sports talk shows, negativity and talking like an ass. Now on to caller, Elizabeth, whom Norm hasn’t spoken with in a long time. She was former WBZ producer Eddie LeClair’s fiancé. We learn that’s not the only thing that can be referred to as former. There’s a caller asking about Norm’s recent trip to Bermuda, his daughters, Sonja and Sarah, glaucoma and a renown eye doctor. We move to Norm talking about all the wacky National Day of stuff such as: Dear Diary Day, Ice Cream Cone Bday, Long Count Day, National Centenarians Day, National Good Neighbor Day and more. It’s time for the DBG! Members of the Panel: Jim in MI Elizabeth from Allston Michael in JP Michelle and Todd from Salem, MA Shayna in Traffic? Maybe not. Bdays: Tommy Lasorda Shari Belafonte Debbie Boone Joan Jett Scott Baio Bob Lemon There’s some weird noises and other discussions before we get to a date in History question: When did Fiddler on the Roof open on Broadway? A ton of fun is had during the game with impressions, great talk about Jack Benny and skit recreations. Jim in MI was using the GE SuperRadio III and picking WBZ up nicely. Elizabeth and Norm talk for a while longer after the game. She had spoken to Ed before she played and relates his thoughts to Norm. Norm mentions that he hosted “A Child’s Guide to Instruments of the Orchestra.” We Break for news. He announces what he’s going to do but does it quietly because other stations steal our ideas. He gives out the phone number even though he’s tired of seeing it scrawled on the bathroom walls. We come back with a caller, Don, complaining about a WBZ promo and a Beatles song. Joan Jett was a guest star on The Highlander tv show? Sheena Easton too? There was a concern that the classical audience is getting older and older but that fear is put aside with a call from Robin in Lynn. She and her 8-year-old love classical music and would be going to the Symphony! Norm expounds on the virtues of musical tastes including mine. Shirley in MI was so happy that Norm was back from his trip. Next is Ron who praises Elizabeth and her call. Then Beatrice in W. Roxbury – Happy to have Norm back from his trip too. Talks about Arthur Fiedler and tells a story of being at Symphony Hall where everyone was waiting for Fiedler to arrive. He was late because he helped fight the Vendome Fire. He was an honorary firefighter and took that very seriously. Our last caller was Jim who was also in Bermuda but on a different cruise. They talk about the high cost of living on the island. We end with a classic tag line from Norm. Episode 105, Cruising the Radio Waves, sets sail to your ear canals…now.

David Stewart Wiley is the Conductor of the Roanoke Symphony Orchestra and was the Conductor and Music Director of the Long Island Philharmonic from 2001 to 2016. He has been honored by Roanoke City Council as Roanoke's “Citizen of the Year” for his outstanding service and outreach to diverse communities, separate from his professional duties. As a solo pianist, Wiley has performed with numerous major orchestras throughout the United States including Minnesota, Indianapolis, Oregon, Honolulu, Wheeling, and West Virginia, performing major concerti by Baroque to contemporary, often conducting from the piano. He has appeared as both a jazz and classical pianist in Boston's Symphony Hall and in recital and chamber music appearances throughout the U.S. as well as in China, Russia, Romania, Germany, Hungary, Italy, the Czech Republic, and Bulgaria. David Stewart Wiley won the Aspen Conducting Prize, was Assistant Conductor for the Aspen Music Festival, and was awarded a Conducting Fellowship at Tanglewood. He and his wife Leah Marer Wiley (soprano soloist, teacher, and owner of Muevela Fitness) have a son and a daughter who play cello and violin and enjoy travelling, hiking, biking, chess, and making music together.

Gabriel/Eve: Beverly Sills  Uriel: John McCollum  Raphael/Adam: Ara Berberian New England Conservatory Chorus  Boston Symphony Orchestra  Conductor: Erich Leinsdorf  Symphony Hall, Boston  22 February 1968  Broadcast

Tri-C professor and professional photographer Daniel Levin joins Dean Jordan on this episode of More Human to discuss his career, the challenges and opportunities associated with pursuing a career in the arts, and the amazing story behind his award-winning book Violins and Hope: From the Holocaust to Symphony Hall.

Long time Boston Symphony librarian John Perkel tells Jim Cunningham about his presentation in concert of a new piece of music for strings written by Leonard Bernstein as a student at Harvard at age 18. It was recorded for broadcast on Boston's WCRB in April of 2022 and will be heard in streaming audio on May 22. John Perkel retired in 2017 after more than two decades with the orchestra. John has many ties to Pittsburgh including the Pittsburgh Symphony's former CEO Gideon Toeplitz and Michael Bielski COO and Senior Vice President who he has known since childhood. Michael now serves as chair of the Community Advisory Board for WQED. John remembers visits by Mariss Jansons and Lorin Maazel to Tanglewood and Symphony Hall with great pleasure. He also recalls the work of  Pittsburgh Symphony Music Director William Steinberg in Boston and the contribution of former Pittsburgh cellist Owen Young.

Shota Nakama (Video Game Orchestra) joins Benny, Siobhán, and Cory as they dive into the insane story that is Shota's life. From his background growing up in Okinawa and dropping out of MIDDLE SCHOOL to be a Rockstar, to booking Symphony Hall and writing with the legendary Jason Becker. We get a look into the start of the famous Video Game Orchestra, and some insight on where they're going next. For anyone a fan of music, or video games (Just about everyone), you're gonna want to check this one out. Come get 2020'd! Check out Shota Nakama: Twitter: @ShotaNakama Instagram: @shotarist https://www.vgo-online.com/ Upcoming project: https://www.blabbermouth.net/news/graham-bonnet-band-to-release-day-out-in-nowhere-album-in-may/ FOLLOW 2020'd: Official Site: https://2020-d.com/​ Facebook: facebook.com/yougot2020d Instagram: instagram.com/yougot2020d WATCH + LISTEN + SUBSCRIBE: https://lnk.to/yougot2020d #shotanakama #vgo #ALSawareness4jason Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode Credits https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=roh-TtGqt7Y  - Mash Potato Time - Dee Dee Sharp https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8kQZHYbZkLs&list=RDQMOufy0WqwyHc&index=2 - Leo Rojas - El Condor Pasa https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HFvKe-8eYvU - Machu Picchu · Dschinghis Khan and Ralph Siegel  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GA5omt0pMAY - Machu Picchu · Tony Alonso https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MUsWXpgtMLk -  Él Que No Tiene de Inga · Oscar Aviles · Arturo Zambo Cavero · Juan Rebaza Cárdenas · Juan Rebaza Cárdenas https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RryEqj09Y2A - The Boston Conservatory Orchestra performs "Apu: Tone Poem for Orchestra" at Boston's Symphony Hall. The composition was written by Gabriella Lena Frank and conducted by Bruce Hangen.  All other Sounds and Music are property of Phonetic Planet, Susan Shea, and Joshua David Yardy Machu Picchu - Dschinghis Khan and Ralph Siegel - Lyrics translated from German to English Deep in the jungle in the mountains of Peru  Tief in dem Dschungel in den Bergen von Peru  They dedicated a last sanctuary to their god  Weihten sie ihrem Gott ein letztes Heiligtum  In a place where there was always peace  An einem Platz, wo immer Frieden war  Where no Spaniard ever came  Dorthin, wo nie ein Spanier kam  They carried everything that was left  Trugen sie alles, was geblieben war  Of their gold (Inca gold)  Von ihrem Gold (Inka-Gold)  And built a city there  Und bauten dort eine Stadt  Pizarro went to the Andes in search of gold  In die Anden zog Pizarro auf der Jagd nach Gold  He left only tears and blood behind him  Hinter sich ließ er nur Tränen und Blut  But the city deep in the jungle was spared from him Doch die Stadt ganz tief I'm Dschungel blieb von ihm verschont Because he never found out about her secret Denn er kam ihrem Geheimnis nie auf die Spur Machu Picchu, Machu Picchu  Machu Picchu, Machu Picchu  Where silence is at home  Dort, wo das Schweigen daheim ist  Machu Picchu, Machu Picchu  Machu Picchu, Machu Picchu  Because nobody knows your secret  Denn niemand kennt dein Geheimnis  And who seeks your treasures (blind greed for gold)  Und wer deine Schätze sucht (Blinde Gier nach Gold)  Is lost forever  Ist auf Ewigkeit verloren  Because the gold belongs to the gods of Peru Denn das Gold gehört den Göttern von Peru And the Incas who were tormented remained silent until death  Und die Inkas, die man quälte, schwiegen bis zum Tod  But the Spaniards never returned home either  Doch auch die Spanier sie kehrten nie heim  (They died on the way to Machu Picchu)  (Sie starben auf dem Weg nach Machu Picchu)  They paid the ultimate price for their greed  Sie bezahlten ihre Habgier mit dem höchsten Preis  And blindly ran into their doom Und liefen in ihr Verderben blindlings hinein Machu Picchu, Machu Picchu  Machu Picchu, Machu Picchu  Where silence is at home  Dort, wo das Schweigen daheim ist  Machu Picchu, Machu Picchu  Machu Picchu, Machu Picchu  Because nobody knows your secret  Denn niemand kennt dein Geheimnis  And who seeks your treasures (blind greed for gold)  Und wer deine Schätze sucht (Blinde Gier nach Gold)  Is lost forever  Ist auf Ewigkeit verloren  Because the gold belongs to the gods of Peru Denn das Gold gehört den Göttern von Peru It is said that only girls beautiful and pure could make the city of gold  Es heißt nur Mädchen schön und rein konnten die Stadt aus Gold  Enter  Betreten  They all had to be virgins to join the gods  Sie mussten alle Jungfrauen sein, um sich den Göttern  add  Hinzugeben  And they lived there  Und sie lebten dort  And they died for their country Und sie starben für ihr Land And only the guards and the priests stayed  Und nur die Wächter und die Priester blieben da  But no one knows what happened there one day  Doch niemand weiß was eines Tages dort geschah  Because Machu Picchu became a city of the dead,  Denn Machu Picchu ward zur Totenstadt,  Houses and temples stood empty  Häuser und Tempel standen leer  And what drove the people there  Und was die Menschen dort vertrieben hat,  That remains unknown  Das bleibt unbekannt  The gold also disappeared without a trace Auch das Gold verschwand ohne Spur And the city of the Incas was found only recently  Und man fand die Stadt der Inkas erst in jüngster Zeit  But by then it had long since been deserted and empty  Doch da war sie längst verlassen und leer  (Who will solve your riddle, Machu Picchu?)  (Wer wird dein Rätsel lösen, Machu Picchu?)  Only the walls still stand today, as they were once built  Nur die Mauern steh'n noch heute, so wie einst gebaut  And you think you hear flutes, sad and heavy Und man glaubt, Flöten zu hören, traurig und schwer Machu Picchu, Machu Picchu  Machu Picchu, Machu Picchu  Where silence is at home  Dort, wo das Schweigen daheim ist  Machu Picchu, Machu Picchu  Machu Picchu, Machu Picchu  Because nobody knows your secret  Denn niemand kennt dein Geheimnis  And who seeks your treasures (blind greed for gold)  Und wer deine Schätze sucht (Blinde Gier nach Gold)  Is lost forever  Ist auf Ewigkeit verloren  Because the gold belongs to the gods of Peru Denn das Gold gehört den Göttern von Peru Machu Picchu, Machu Picchu  Machu Picchu, Machu Picchu  Where silence is at home  Dort, wo das Schweigen daheim ist  Machu Picchu, Machu Picchu  Machu Picchu, Machu Picchu  Because nobody knows your secret  Denn niemand kennt dein Geheimnis  Yes, who seeks your treasures (blind greed for gold)  Ja wer deine Schätze sucht (Blinde Gier nach Gold)  Is lost forever  Ist auf Ewigkeit verloren  Because the gold belongs to the gods of the city of Machu Picchu Denn das Gold gehört den Göttern von der Stadt Machu Picchu Machu Picchu... Machu Picchu...

Andrew Jowett, the former, and longtime, director of one of the greatest concert halls in the world recounts the hurdles jumped and the deals made to make Symphony Hall in Birmingham a reality and, the joys that came for so many with the countless world-class artists that graced its stage!

Laird and Ron tackle another John Williams scored summer blockbuster, War of the Worlds. Come join them as they celebrate 15-years of the Steven Spielberg-Tom Cruise dark adventure story. Before that, they go over some recent John Williams news with audio highlights and information, and finish with a 40 year blast from the past from Symphony Hall. [In Stereo]