August 19, 2011

Artists are often inspired by other disciplines.  For me it is painting.  I literally hear music when I look at a great painting.  The Gertrude Stein Collection at SF MOMA, and the Picasso Museum show at the De Young, are two of the most inspiring shows I've ever seen.  As Picasso liked to boast, he had the best Picasso collection on the planet.  And with the Stein show, there is also a lot of Matisse, who Picasso adored.  In fact, each thought the other was the best.  (As Frank used to declare Tony the one.  I used to think that was false modesty, but now I know it wasn't).  "Art is the lie that tells the truth".  Picasso. 

Number 72 June 15, 2011

All musicians are singers, and hopefully, dancers.  Billie Holiday, Frank Sinatra, and Tony Bennett have influenced generations of instrumentalists.  I've had the privilege of seeing Tony many times over the years, but last month at Davies Symphony Hall, sitting in the second row, was probably the most amazing.  All artists try to take the fire of youth into old age, and hopefully marry it with wisdom.  At 83, Tony is the best interpreter of American song.  Period.  And I realize that his appreciation for the great American song book won't be duplicated - they are the songs of his youth.  This week Cal Performances is hosting the Ojai North Music Festival, with this year's director the fabulous Dawn Upshaw.  Performing with the Australian Chamber Orchestra, she sang Bartok last night, and will sing a George Crumb piece Thursday.  Friday, as part of SF Jazz, Yousoo N'Dour is at the Paramount, and Roy Hargrove is at Herbst Sunday.  A busy, and inspirational week, even by my standards!  Oh, and my guru Eddie Duran and Mad are at Cafe Claude Saturday!