Monday, December 22, 2008
Winter Wishes
Best wishes to each of you during the winter holidays. May all of your 2.0 tools bring you extra creativity in 2009!
Monday, December 1, 2008
G-mail Invite
Just to say on the blog that I look forward to attending Dec 2 final class. Have NOT YET received an invite from G-mail (e-mail to coach). Where is the Orientation Room located?
Friday, November 28, 2008
Uploaded Photos onto Flickr
Hope I did this right: http://www.flickr.com/photos/todayfortomorrow/?saved=1
Skype Potential
We could promote videoconferencing for all of our classes, lectures, concerts already being programmed.
A second idea would be to partner with library schools, to teach their students live reference interaction. I believe this would be a great boost in the curriculum.
A second idea would be to partner with library schools, to teach their students live reference interaction. I believe this would be a great boost in the curriculum.
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Groups
Lulu has groups and I'm getting the point that these are popular. Could be applicable on our website, and would promote clubs and more.
It's a Lulu
The Lulu site is appealing and I have set up an account. Can't tell yet how prices compare with local printing, but I expect it's exposure would be beneficial to sales of our ESL cookbook. I will look it over further and let the ESL coordinator at the library know about it.
Blog-in-out
Everytime I go to the coach's site and sign in to my blog at top right I then lose hers, and have to go back into my e-mail to get the link she so kindly sent me. Other times I follow a link and lose her site, so lots of going back and forth and starting over.
Back to Craigslist
Had trouble setting up a library account, it didn't take newtonreference@minlib.net with our password, so I had to set up one on my own e-mail acct. and am waiting the 5 min. stated for a code to enter for verification. No calls yet. May be another lesson in frustration. will have to switch desks soon.
Food Blog
Here is a special food blog: Karina's Kitchen http://glutenfreegoddess.blogspot.com/
for gluten-free, vegans, and vegetarians, and praised by Newsweek. Funny blogger and recipes for Thanksgiving with photos that look great. Happy Holiday!
for gluten-free, vegans, and vegetarians, and praised by Newsweek. Funny blogger and recipes for Thanksgiving with photos that look great. Happy Holiday!
New Recipes
In reviewing The Book of New Israeli Food, I came across lots of new recipes and am trying to search for them in the food databases. RecipeSource has a left frame which looks friendly toward world food, and sure enough, I found one recipe for Shawarma. I wondered how to get the cylindrical shape photographed in the book, and in the recipe online the contributor says to place the marinated meat into a barbecue cage. Have to explore where to find that now.
Looking for Rhubarb pie for Thanksgiving and found several on same site. This came up yesterday when Whole Foods didn't have one. I always cut the sugar in half as we don't like things too sweet.
Looking for Rhubarb pie for Thanksgiving and found several on same site. This came up yesterday when Whole Foods didn't have one. I always cut the sugar in half as we don't like things too sweet.
Thing 18 Book Review
This is what I had posted:
Anya by Susan Fromberg Schaeffer
Anya Savikin lived among well-to-do Russian Jews in Poland, in a world more like Tolstoy's, until the first bombing of Warsaw and the chaos that ensued. Her story incarnates the strength and love of eastern European Jewry, before and after their decimation. Written in 1974, this story rightfully left a lasting impression with a 30 anniversary paperback edition by W.W. Norton in 2004. --Clara's List
It has probably been 34 yrs since I read this, so had to use review in catalog for first 2 sentences. In the beginning of the story I remember how polished and clean a home she came from, and that brushes were strapped to her shoes to buff the wax floors. Still think of it as a fun way to get the task done! Of course that was just a little window into her life in the beginning, and how homes were cared for.
Anya by Susan Fromberg Schaeffer
Anya Savikin lived among well-to-do Russian Jews in Poland, in a world more like Tolstoy's, until the first bombing of Warsaw and the chaos that ensued. Her story incarnates the strength and love of eastern European Jewry, before and after their decimation. Written in 1974, this story rightfully left a lasting impression with a 30 anniversary paperback edition by W.W. Norton in 2004. --Clara's List
It has probably been 34 yrs since I read this, so had to use review in catalog for first 2 sentences. In the beginning of the story I remember how polished and clean a home she came from, and that brushes were strapped to her shoes to buff the wax floors. Still think of it as a fun way to get the task done! Of course that was just a little window into her life in the beginning, and how homes were cared for.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Twilight Twitter Update
I made a Twitter account and spread the word that two popular Stephanie Meyer books, Twilight and New Moon are all out in the Minuteman libraries. Invited our coach but see it didn't work. Invited again. Still showing 0 followers. I don't get it!
Twilight Twitter
here are 3 ideas:
One application of Twitter or the like for public libraries would be for the YA set who come in asking for the book based on a hot movie, like Twilight. We could send out word if all copies are out, and to request a copy, @ back with library card and pin number, or go to the online catalog and make a reserve. Of course, this would be a new way to place reserves, applicable to anyone who'd like a hot best seller.
Pownce offers photos and songs, too, so Programs could promote a program with a snapshot and incipit of music or lectures.
Our computer classes could send out a "still space available" to last minute takers, and remind those who have signed up.
One application of Twitter or the like for public libraries would be for the YA set who come in asking for the book based on a hot movie, like Twilight. We could send out word if all copies are out, and to request a copy, @ back with library card and pin number, or go to the online catalog and make a reserve. Of course, this would be a new way to place reserves, applicable to anyone who'd like a hot best seller.
Pownce offers photos and songs, too, so Programs could promote a program with a snapshot and incipit of music or lectures.
Our computer classes could send out a "still space available" to last minute takers, and remind those who have signed up.
Monday, November 24, 2008
Weekdaymusicians Wiki
Last week I created a wiki called Weekdaymusicans at PBwiki, for a library club for musicians who need to meet other musicians for social purposes. Musicians often work weekends, and teach in the afternoons, and have a hard time making new friends. They also need to find new ensemble players. The club could have late morning coffee and discuss musical biographies, performance practice, concerts, etc. I haven't been able to figure out where to describe all of that yet, or how to adjust the title once it's made. I was thinking of morningmusicians and made a whole extra wiki as I couldn't adjust the first one. Anyway, I'll work on it further.
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Friday, November 21, 2008
Listening
Using Radio Paradise and info says not necessary to register to listen, just click on Listen Links (which is not there on individual searches, e.g. tried Fur Elise). If it's just listening to whatever they give you from Listen tab, I'm not getting any choices. Once more, not intuitive. I'll try another site later.
Wayback Flat Out
Tried searching for my institution on Wayback but it isn't working. Chose link to Archive.org and found Catalog of the Newton Free Library (1892), book digitized by Google from the library of Harvard University.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Reading and Riding
I found The Mayflower by Philbrick available for Kindle and at Playaways. Rather astounded at the costs. Not sure I'm understanding the products, but it seems one shells out $350ish for a Kindle player with Amazon and then the book is relatively inexpensive at $9.99 (make up outlay after 15 books?), and Playaways was a whopping $114 for what I'm not sure, maybe you get to keep the player?
I think it would be kind of neat in the future for libraries to do the following:
1) Digitally record all of their programs and concerts and then offer them for sale through the Friends online;
2) Offer readings of writings from special collections, local history museums and historical societies;
3) Begin to offer classes to educate people about the new formats
If libraries converted to this format or even offered it, the price of equipment would have to come down considerably. Perhaps individuals would have a purchase account and libraries would do the ordering.
I think it would be kind of neat in the future for libraries to do the following:
1) Digitally record all of their programs and concerts and then offer them for sale through the Friends online;
2) Offer readings of writings from special collections, local history museums and historical societies;
3) Begin to offer classes to educate people about the new formats
If libraries converted to this format or even offered it, the price of equipment would have to come down considerably. Perhaps individuals would have a purchase account and libraries would do the ordering.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Clip Clip, Clop, Clop
Finally able to register at Del.icio.us, had difficulties. I exported my Favorites file of legal publishers to another computer and also, lo and behold, it also ended up on my del.icio.us account. Not sure I can take credit for that yet. I added this site and have to go now: http://www.musiclibraryassoc.org/copyright/
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Newton Highland Jazz Artist Returns for Hometown Gig
Sorry this is late, but it sounded great!
Former Newtonite returns for a Highland Jazz gig
By Ed Symkus/Senior Staff Writer
Tue Oct 28, 2008, 11:25 AM EDT
When pianist Steve Kuhn performs at Highland Jazz on Saturday — both as a soloist and as accompanist for his longtime singing partner Sheila Jordan — it’ll be quite the homecoming for him. The Brooklyn native spent his teen years based in Newton, often playing at fabled hot spots such as Storyville and The Stable, while attending Newton High School and Harvard.
Kuhn, 70, whose most recent album is the “Promises Kept,” had always been told that he showed a musical ability even before he could walk. Though he started piano lessons at 5, he began lessons with the renowned Margaret Chaloff at 12, and had to “unlearn everything I had learned, in terms of piano technique.”
A brief stint at the Lenox School after graduating from Harvard put him together with an incredible faculty (Gunther Schuller, Bill Evans, Kenny Dorham) some up-and-coming students (Ornette Coleman, Don Cherry), and led him to a great first regular gig when he moved to New York and became part of trumpeter Dorham’s quintet.
A gutsy cold call to John Coltrane got him the piano seat in Trane’s newly formed quartet, after which Kuhn went on to play with Stan Getz and Art Farmer, live and work in Sweden for a few years, then settle into a career of group and solo and duet work. He’s been collaborating with Sheila Jordan for close to 40 years.
What do you recall of being attracted to music as a young child?
“My father had a collection of 78 jazz recordings — Benny Goodman and Count Basie and Duke Ellington. I responded viscerally to that music when he put it on. I had a photographic memory, and I would crawl to the Victrola, and by looking at the record label, I could tell you, in baby talk — like Benny Goo-man — the title of it, and I would put it on.”
How long have you been playing professionally?
“The first job I ever had was at a high school dance in the gym when I was around 13. I think I got $6 for it. Then I was taken under the wing of George Wein, who owned Storyville at the time in Boston. I worked solo piano at Storyville, and I also got in with the guys who worked at The Stable. I would sit in and work there when someone else took the night off. This was all through high school.”
When did you start thinking about making music your career?
“I never thought of doing anything else. I had people telling me that right along: ‘You’re crazy; do it as an avocation, but study to be a doctor or whatever.’ I’m glad I didn’t listen, but they were right. It is hard, and it continues to be challenging. With a few exceptions in this business, it’s really a struggle for most musicians. But if it’s in your heart of hearts to do it, you pursue it, and at some point in the journey, you’ll know if it’s not for you.”
How did you get hooked up with Kenny Dorham?
After the Lenox School, I moved to New York, checked into the Bryant Hotel, and started calling everybody I knew. It turned out that Kenny needed a piano player at that time, and asked me if I would join the band.
Did you really make a cold call to John Coltrane and ask to join his group?
“I called John Coltrane because he had just left Miles [Davis]. I said my name is such and such, I’m currently playing with Kenny Dorham, and I heard you were looking to put a quartet together. I would like it if we could meet sometime, and just talk and play. A few weeks went by, and he called me, and we got together in a little studio one afternoon, and spent two or three hours there talking and playing. About a week later, he called me and asked if I’d come out to his house on Long Island. I took the subway out there, and again we just talked and played. Maybe a week or two later he called and asked if $135 a week would be OK to start. I was with him for a little over two months, and then McCoy Tyner joined, but it was quite a learning experience.”
“Promises Kept” features a very different sound for you, with all of the string arrangements. Do you have to approach that project with a whole different mindset than other situations?
“I suppose you do, but for me it was a life’s dream to be able to do this. It was about playing kind of sparsely, and to really get the emotion — and transmitting that emotion to the audience. It’s about reaching people’s hearts. The worst thing for me to hear is someone saying, ‘Oh, that’s interesting.’ I’d rather they have a strong feeling. People have come up to me and said the music makes them cry or it makes them laugh and feel great. That’s what I want to hear.
What’s the difference for you between playing solo and accompanying someone?
“I like playing solo, but it’s very challenging, because it all rides on you. If it goes well, it’s on you, and if it doesn’t, it’s on you as well. The essence of accompanying is that it’s literally just accompanying. It’s about supporting a horn player or a singer, and not doing too much. But when I play at Highland Jazz with Sheila, at some point she’ll leave the stage, and I’ll do some solo playing.”
Are you ever totally comfortable when you’re sitting at the piano?
“I’ve been playing for 65 years, and it’s always a challenge.Anytime I sit down there, it’s as if it’s the first time. I think if I became complacent about it, then the edge would be lost, and why bother. I love what I’m doing, but I don’t love the traveling. If I could be virtually transported to the bandstands, that would be great. But to do the music is wonderful. I’m very blessed to be out here.”
Steve Kuhn and Sheila Jordan perform at Highland Jazz, Newton South High School, on Nov. 1 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $20; students, $10. Call 781-237-1917.
Ed Symkus can be reached at esymkus@cnc.com.
From the Minuteman OPAC:
Home [sound recording]. Swallow, Steve. [München] : ECM ; [New York : Manufactured and distributed by BMG Music], p1980. 1 sound disc : digital ; 4 3/4 in. + 1 insert.
Live at Birdland [sound recording] Steve Kuhn Trio. New York : The Blue Note Label Group, p2007. 1 sound disc : digital ; 4 3/4 in.
Mostly ballads [sound recording] Kuhn, Steve. New York, NY : New World Records, p1987. 1 sound disc : digital, stereo. ; 4 3/4 in.
Oceans in the sky [sound recording] Kuhn, Steve. France : Owl Records/Sunnyside Communications, c2003, p1989. 1 sound disc : digital ; 4 3/4 in.
The Great jazz pianists : speaking of their lives and music New York : W. Morrow, 1983. 321 p. : ports. ; 25 cm. 1st ed. Chapter interviews Steve Kuhn.
Former Newtonite returns for a Highland Jazz gig
By Ed Symkus/Senior Staff Writer
Tue Oct 28, 2008, 11:25 AM EDT
When pianist Steve Kuhn performs at Highland Jazz on Saturday — both as a soloist and as accompanist for his longtime singing partner Sheila Jordan — it’ll be quite the homecoming for him. The Brooklyn native spent his teen years based in Newton, often playing at fabled hot spots such as Storyville and The Stable, while attending Newton High School and Harvard.
Kuhn, 70, whose most recent album is the “Promises Kept,” had always been told that he showed a musical ability even before he could walk. Though he started piano lessons at 5, he began lessons with the renowned Margaret Chaloff at 12, and had to “unlearn everything I had learned, in terms of piano technique.”
A brief stint at the Lenox School after graduating from Harvard put him together with an incredible faculty (Gunther Schuller, Bill Evans, Kenny Dorham) some up-and-coming students (Ornette Coleman, Don Cherry), and led him to a great first regular gig when he moved to New York and became part of trumpeter Dorham’s quintet.
A gutsy cold call to John Coltrane got him the piano seat in Trane’s newly formed quartet, after which Kuhn went on to play with Stan Getz and Art Farmer, live and work in Sweden for a few years, then settle into a career of group and solo and duet work. He’s been collaborating with Sheila Jordan for close to 40 years.
What do you recall of being attracted to music as a young child?
“My father had a collection of 78 jazz recordings — Benny Goodman and Count Basie and Duke Ellington. I responded viscerally to that music when he put it on. I had a photographic memory, and I would crawl to the Victrola, and by looking at the record label, I could tell you, in baby talk — like Benny Goo-man — the title of it, and I would put it on.”
How long have you been playing professionally?
“The first job I ever had was at a high school dance in the gym when I was around 13. I think I got $6 for it. Then I was taken under the wing of George Wein, who owned Storyville at the time in Boston. I worked solo piano at Storyville, and I also got in with the guys who worked at The Stable. I would sit in and work there when someone else took the night off. This was all through high school.”
When did you start thinking about making music your career?
“I never thought of doing anything else. I had people telling me that right along: ‘You’re crazy; do it as an avocation, but study to be a doctor or whatever.’ I’m glad I didn’t listen, but they were right. It is hard, and it continues to be challenging. With a few exceptions in this business, it’s really a struggle for most musicians. But if it’s in your heart of hearts to do it, you pursue it, and at some point in the journey, you’ll know if it’s not for you.”
How did you get hooked up with Kenny Dorham?
After the Lenox School, I moved to New York, checked into the Bryant Hotel, and started calling everybody I knew. It turned out that Kenny needed a piano player at that time, and asked me if I would join the band.
Did you really make a cold call to John Coltrane and ask to join his group?
“I called John Coltrane because he had just left Miles [Davis]. I said my name is such and such, I’m currently playing with Kenny Dorham, and I heard you were looking to put a quartet together. I would like it if we could meet sometime, and just talk and play. A few weeks went by, and he called me, and we got together in a little studio one afternoon, and spent two or three hours there talking and playing. About a week later, he called me and asked if I’d come out to his house on Long Island. I took the subway out there, and again we just talked and played. Maybe a week or two later he called and asked if $135 a week would be OK to start. I was with him for a little over two months, and then McCoy Tyner joined, but it was quite a learning experience.”
“Promises Kept” features a very different sound for you, with all of the string arrangements. Do you have to approach that project with a whole different mindset than other situations?
“I suppose you do, but for me it was a life’s dream to be able to do this. It was about playing kind of sparsely, and to really get the emotion — and transmitting that emotion to the audience. It’s about reaching people’s hearts. The worst thing for me to hear is someone saying, ‘Oh, that’s interesting.’ I’d rather they have a strong feeling. People have come up to me and said the music makes them cry or it makes them laugh and feel great. That’s what I want to hear.
What’s the difference for you between playing solo and accompanying someone?
“I like playing solo, but it’s very challenging, because it all rides on you. If it goes well, it’s on you, and if it doesn’t, it’s on you as well. The essence of accompanying is that it’s literally just accompanying. It’s about supporting a horn player or a singer, and not doing too much. But when I play at Highland Jazz with Sheila, at some point she’ll leave the stage, and I’ll do some solo playing.”
Are you ever totally comfortable when you’re sitting at the piano?
“I’ve been playing for 65 years, and it’s always a challenge.Anytime I sit down there, it’s as if it’s the first time. I think if I became complacent about it, then the edge would be lost, and why bother. I love what I’m doing, but I don’t love the traveling. If I could be virtually transported to the bandstands, that would be great. But to do the music is wonderful. I’m very blessed to be out here.”
Steve Kuhn and Sheila Jordan perform at Highland Jazz, Newton South High School, on Nov. 1 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $20; students, $10. Call 781-237-1917.
Ed Symkus can be reached at esymkus@cnc.com.
From the Minuteman OPAC:
Home [sound recording]. Swallow, Steve. [München] : ECM ; [New York : Manufactured and distributed by BMG Music], p1980. 1 sound disc : digital ; 4 3/4 in. + 1 insert.
Live at Birdland [sound recording] Steve Kuhn Trio. New York : The Blue Note Label Group, p2007. 1 sound disc : digital ; 4 3/4 in.
Mostly ballads [sound recording] Kuhn, Steve. New York, NY : New World Records, p1987. 1 sound disc : digital, stereo. ; 4 3/4 in.
Oceans in the sky [sound recording] Kuhn, Steve. France : Owl Records/Sunnyside Communications, c2003, p1989. 1 sound disc : digital ; 4 3/4 in.
The Great jazz pianists : speaking of their lives and music New York : W. Morrow, 1983. 321 p. : ports. ; 25 cm. 1st ed. Chapter interviews Steve Kuhn.
Music Thrillers
Miss celebrating Halloween this year? Here are some music thrillers you might enjoy from LibraryThing and other sources.
"The Chopin Manuscript: A Serial Thriller" by Jeffrey Deaver, Lisa Scottoline, Lee Child and twelve more authors, one expert writer per chapter. Summary: Harry Middleton has possession of a priceless score by Frederic Chopin that puts him and thousands of Americans in grave danger. Hidden amidst measures and notes is a secret that others are willing to kill for, and Middleton must work toward discovering the mystery of the manuscript while also protecting his life. Jeffery Deaver wrote the first and last chapters, while fifteen thriller authors each wrote one chapter.
"Murder at the Opera: A Capital Crimes Novel" by Margaret Truman.
From Publishers Weekly
Bestseller Truman's 22nd D.C. mystery (after 2005's Murder at the Washington Tribune), one of her strongest, opens with what looks like a simple crime of passion: a promising young Canadian opera singer found dead at the Kennedy Center's Washington National Opera. Criminal lawyer turned law professor Mackensie Smith and retired cop Ray Pawkins both happen to be at the theater when the body is discovered, both there as extras in an upcoming production of Puccini's Tosca—Mac pressed into service by his wife, Annabel, and Ray involved because of his love of opera. While the two put their talents to solving the case—which turns out to involve corrupt talent agents and international terrorism—Truman widens her scope to reveal a charming supporting cast including fictitious U.S. president Arthur Montgomery. Opera buffs will enjoy the Tosca anecdotes and occasional glimpses of intelligence gathering in the Middle East lend a timely feel.
For a music CD, try "Devil's Dance" (DGG)performed by Gil Shaham, violin and Jonathan Feldman, piano. Contents Devil's dance : from The witches of Eastwick / John Williams -- A Transylvanian lullaby : from Young Frankenstein / John Morris -- Puck / Edvard Grieg -- Danse macabre / Camille Saint-Saëns -- Caprice fantastique / Erich Wolfgang Korngold -- Walpugisnacht / Johannes Brahms -- Hexenlied / Felix Mendelssohn -- La ronde des lutins / Antonio Bazzini -- Graceful ghost / William Bolcom -- Concert fantasy on Gounod's Faust / Pablo de Sarasate -- Caprice in B flat major / Nicolo Paganini -- Sonata in G minor : "Devil's trill" / Giuseppe Tartini -- Obsession : from Sonata for solo violin in A minor / Eugène Ysaye.
There's also "Scary Movie Music" (Scotti Bros.): Track Listings
1. Dracula
2. Night on Bald Mountain - Neil Norman
3. War of the Worlds
4. Alien - Neil Norman
5. Pit and the Pendulum
6. Twilight Zone - Neil Norman
7. Jaws
8. Pshcyo
9. Blade Runner
10. Resurrected - Neil Norman
"The Chopin Manuscript: A Serial Thriller" by Jeffrey Deaver, Lisa Scottoline, Lee Child and twelve more authors, one expert writer per chapter. Summary: Harry Middleton has possession of a priceless score by Frederic Chopin that puts him and thousands of Americans in grave danger. Hidden amidst measures and notes is a secret that others are willing to kill for, and Middleton must work toward discovering the mystery of the manuscript while also protecting his life. Jeffery Deaver wrote the first and last chapters, while fifteen thriller authors each wrote one chapter.
"Murder at the Opera: A Capital Crimes Novel" by Margaret Truman.
From Publishers Weekly
Bestseller Truman's 22nd D.C. mystery (after 2005's Murder at the Washington Tribune), one of her strongest, opens with what looks like a simple crime of passion: a promising young Canadian opera singer found dead at the Kennedy Center's Washington National Opera. Criminal lawyer turned law professor Mackensie Smith and retired cop Ray Pawkins both happen to be at the theater when the body is discovered, both there as extras in an upcoming production of Puccini's Tosca—Mac pressed into service by his wife, Annabel, and Ray involved because of his love of opera. While the two put their talents to solving the case—which turns out to involve corrupt talent agents and international terrorism—Truman widens her scope to reveal a charming supporting cast including fictitious U.S. president Arthur Montgomery. Opera buffs will enjoy the Tosca anecdotes and occasional glimpses of intelligence gathering in the Middle East lend a timely feel.
For a music CD, try "Devil's Dance" (DGG)performed by Gil Shaham, violin and Jonathan Feldman, piano. Contents Devil's dance : from The witches of Eastwick / John Williams -- A Transylvanian lullaby : from Young Frankenstein / John Morris -- Puck / Edvard Grieg -- Danse macabre / Camille Saint-Saëns -- Caprice fantastique / Erich Wolfgang Korngold -- Walpugisnacht / Johannes Brahms -- Hexenlied / Felix Mendelssohn -- La ronde des lutins / Antonio Bazzini -- Graceful ghost / William Bolcom -- Concert fantasy on Gounod's Faust / Pablo de Sarasate -- Caprice in B flat major / Nicolo Paganini -- Sonata in G minor : "Devil's trill" / Giuseppe Tartini -- Obsession : from Sonata for solo violin in A minor / Eugène Ysaye.
There's also "Scary Movie Music" (Scotti Bros.): Track Listings
1. Dracula
2. Night on Bald Mountain - Neil Norman
3. War of the Worlds
4. Alien - Neil Norman
5. Pit and the Pendulum
6. Twilight Zone - Neil Norman
7. Jaws
8. Pshcyo
9. Blade Runner
10. Resurrected - Neil Norman
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Cast out for Podcast Concert Connection
It has always seemed to me that, unlike film, theatre and art exhibit reviews which encourage or discourage attendance at subsequent performances, concert reviews are often of a "stand alone" performance. Just when I became enthusiastic and wanted to experience a musical performance, it was over! I'd missed it forever! That to me is the beauty of the podcast from musical organizations. A reprieve? Is this a re-broadcast? In clicking on Podcasts at BSO site, going to a concert, clicking on iTunes, message says, can't find iTunes on my computer. Not sure if it's ok to download. No supervisor around at the moment. Boston Symphony Orchestra also proclaims, "Enhance your concert going experience," offering pre-concert lectures. Just can't listen to anything!
On NPR Podcast Directory there are six results. Tried "Classical to Go" Podcast. Says need to subscribe, clicking on Yahoo, not able to subscribe; why is it not clear? Am getting bogged down so will continue tomorrow.
On NPR Podcast Directory there are six results. Tried "Classical to Go" Podcast. Says need to subscribe, clicking on Yahoo, not able to subscribe; why is it not clear? Am getting bogged down so will continue tomorrow.
Can't Attend a Concert? Try Their Podcast!
Lots of wonderful results with a Google search for "concerts" and "podcasts" and "Massachusetts." Just for a start, you'll get The Boston Symphony Orchestra, Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, Berklee College of Music, New England Conservatory and much more. So far everything says BUY NOW! Needs more exploration! More later...
"Mr. Bean at the Library" - Take 2
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RyDY0hiMZy8
I clicked on the link icon last time and this, with different results. First time was under Edit Html tab; second time was under Compose tab. Hope Take 2 works. Don't really see how the preview shows an active link. Keeping my hopes up!
"Mr. Bean at the Library"
Do white gloves make a difference?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RyDY0hiMZy8
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RyDY0hiMZy8
Rare Books Rare Patron on YouTube
Here's what happened when I searched for "library videos" on YouTube. I wasn't able to open a link immediately as message read either of two programs was turned off or needed updating, followed by an install message to update Flash, followed by licensing agreement. Checked with assistant supervisor to clear installation. After that, everything worked well, and my choice for arts-minded followers so far is "Mr. Bean at the Library."
The applications for this video could be broad - shown to the college-bound, freshman library orientation, and generaly to adults. Why is this visual story so funny? What kind of library is this? Reasons why one might end up in a special collections/rare book collection. Special considerations in handling books. Is your library quiet? orderly? considerate of others? extra careful in handling rare books? what should you do if you have an accident with the materials?
I'll see if I can figure out how to embed the URL later...
The applications for this video could be broad - shown to the college-bound, freshman library orientation, and generaly to adults. Why is this visual story so funny? What kind of library is this? Reasons why one might end up in a special collections/rare book collection. Special considerations in handling books. Is your library quiet? orderly? considerate of others? extra careful in handling rare books? what should you do if you have an accident with the materials?
I'll see if I can figure out how to embed the URL later...
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Jeanne d'Arc on Google Maps
Once I visited the small town of Orleans, France and remembered seeing a statue of Jeanne d'Arc (Joan of Arc) in the center. Using Google Maps, I was able to see the statue again. Not too many pictures posted, some of a great cathedral, but none of the small synagogue which I discovered on a quiet Saturday morning when I followed the sound of Hebrew prayers, up a set of alabster steps.
Looking for NFL on Flickr
When searching for Newton Free Library I knew the results would be great! One of our librarians has been documenting our library and there are oodles of wonderful pictures of patrons and staff. One of the most interesting things is the documented process of how a book finally reaches the patron's hands. The search results vary, depending upon use of quotation marks around Newton Free Library, and with (149 hits) or without (319), it doesn't match the numbers we have for those loaded in our album (281). But nonetheless, we're there!
Hometown Artist
The first image I see on the BPL Flickr page is a self-portrait lithograph print by George Bellows. He is of interest to me since we hail from the same hometown. One of his large paintings of boxers had impressed me on a school field trip, my first visit to any large museum. Later on I became an art librarian in a museum! I will look for more art and music images -- sure to plentiful at the Boston Public Library.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Feed Your Mind, Body and Soul
Here is my suggestion for our library to have RSS feeds:
Keep on top of all of the wonderful monthly free author talks, lectures, concerts, art exhibits and receptions, literary and retirement clubs, noon-time yoga classes, young adult interactive programs and children's programming and special events at The Newton Free Library. \Soon you will be able to subscribe to the monthly calendar of events, or to individual RSS feeds for your favorite activities. Since the fall of 1991, Newton Library patrons have benefitted from superior programming, absolutely free. Let us feed your mind, body and soul. Subscribe now to The Newton Free Library's RSS feeds.
Keep on top of all of the wonderful monthly free author talks, lectures, concerts, art exhibits and receptions, literary and retirement clubs, noon-time yoga classes, young adult interactive programs and children's programming and special events at The Newton Free Library. \Soon you will be able to subscribe to the monthly calendar of events, or to individual RSS feeds for your favorite activities. Since the fall of 1991, Newton Library patrons have benefitted from superior programming, absolutely free. Let us feed your mind, body and soul. Subscribe now to The Newton Free Library's RSS feeds.
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Looking for Lessons
Supposing I were looking for a music teacher for piano lessons, it was easiest on Craigs List, after finding category - Services, then under that heading, Lessons. Not very professional looking of course, but a similarly quick searching of the Globe produced jobs for musicians by employers. Nary a find with the Herald of either. Considering people are on and off the computer pretty quickly, I'd use Craigs List for local music teachers available for private lessons, and the Globe for a job if I wanted a music teaching position.
Social Networking at My Library
Social networking could promote communities internally among staff at the library, and also help develop groups of library devotees, replacing some of the e-mail surveys and printed materials we now employ. For three examples, I'll use the following:
Idea 1: "Let's Communicate!" Periodically, I survey the staff for language proficiencies, a useful list of names by department showing level of competency, from beginner to native speaker. Knowing this often helps when a patron is non-conversant in English. An online social network led by staff could help create staff appreciation of different ethinic traditions, customs, manners, and the understanding of grammatical sentence structure. Further, we could then form sub-groups of leaders to organize clubs for the community, to meet individually and later jointly in celebration of the many cultures present within the community, highlighting library resources and programming of interest to these cultures.
Idea 2: "Are You Like Me?" could be a YA social network site, to help teens feel less alone and scared when facing personal problems or concerns. The YA librarians could respond to teen issues by developing collections based upon these concerns, and writing reviews of resources, how and where to find them. Doing this online may prevent embarassment. At the same time, if any wanted to meet as a group in the library to talk about information, that could be arranged.
Idea 3: "Younger/Older : Mentoring Each Other" would be an intergenerational pool of skills, talent, wisdom, expertise, advanced knowledge, where patrons could meet in the library, exchanging their younger/older abilities, helping each other in today's world and to advance their future.
Idea 1: "Let's Communicate!" Periodically, I survey the staff for language proficiencies, a useful list of names by department showing level of competency, from beginner to native speaker. Knowing this often helps when a patron is non-conversant in English. An online social network led by staff could help create staff appreciation of different ethinic traditions, customs, manners, and the understanding of grammatical sentence structure. Further, we could then form sub-groups of leaders to organize clubs for the community, to meet individually and later jointly in celebration of the many cultures present within the community, highlighting library resources and programming of interest to these cultures.
Idea 2: "Are You Like Me?" could be a YA social network site, to help teens feel less alone and scared when facing personal problems or concerns. The YA librarians could respond to teen issues by developing collections based upon these concerns, and writing reviews of resources, how and where to find them. Doing this online may prevent embarassment. At the same time, if any wanted to meet as a group in the library to talk about information, that could be arranged.
Idea 3: "Younger/Older : Mentoring Each Other" would be an intergenerational pool of skills, talent, wisdom, expertise, advanced knowledge, where patrons could meet in the library, exchanging their younger/older abilities, helping each other in today's world and to advance their future.
Jane Austen's Musical Notebooks
If you're a fan of both Jane Austen and the piano, you'll want to attend the Concord Authors Festival program to be held at the Concord Public Library on Sunday afternoon at 3pm, October 19th 2008. The Virtuous Virtuoso: Keyboard Works from the Musical Notebooks of Jane Austen
Jane Austen excelled as an amateur keyboard player. In her novels, the piano is often featured as a site of provocative interaction between men and women. Elizabeth Morgan presents a conversational program of piano pieces from Austen's collection of notebooks and sheet music. Introducing each piece, Morgan tells the audience about the composer and recounts scenes from Austen's novels in which the piano is featured.
WHO: Elizabeth Morgan
WHEN: Sunday, October 19 at 3:00pm
WHERE: Concord Free Public Library
Jane Austen excelled as an amateur keyboard player. In her novels, the piano is often featured as a site of provocative interaction between men and women. Elizabeth Morgan presents a conversational program of piano pieces from Austen's collection of notebooks and sheet music. Introducing each piece, Morgan tells the audience about the composer and recounts scenes from Austen's novels in which the piano is featured.
WHO: Elizabeth Morgan
WHEN: Sunday, October 19 at 3:00pm
WHERE: Concord Free Public Library
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Classical Music Fans
Here is a site for classical music fans to social network: http://www.dilettantemusic.com/. You can find a review of it here: http://blog.wired.com/music/2008/01/a-social-networ.html. Excerpt: About the name. Dilettante the site tries to reclaim "dilettante" the word from its generally accepted meaning today ("a person having a superficial interest in an art or a branch of knowledge"), and restore it to its earlier meaning, from the Latin "delectare" ("to delight - noun: a lover of an art of science, esp. of a fine art").
Monday, September 29, 2008
Listening to Beethoven
Wonder how to choose the right recording of Beethoven's Fifth Symphony? Listen to WCRB this week for Keith Lockhart's comparisons of conductors and orchestras. Review of all four on Friday October 3 2008.
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