Tag: Music

A novel piano design

I’m fascinated to learn, via Ectoplasmosis!, of a uniquely-shaped piano from Schimmel in Germany. Apparently Schimmel collaborated with the Italian designer Luigi Colani to develop a modern interpretation of the classical concert piano design. According to one review: Professor Luigi Colani reimagined the traditional 88 keys and gave the classic grand piano a futuristic organic… Continue reading A novel piano design

I wish I could have been there!

Earlier this week, Reuters reported on an unique concert held in Jerusalem. Sixteen violins used by Jewish Holocaust victims — including an instrument whose case was used to smuggle explosives that blew up a Nazi base — were played on Wednesday in a concert in Jerusalem. “Each violin has its own story,” said Amnon Weinstein,… Continue reading I wish I could have been there!

A musical interlude

I was speaking today with a friend, who asked me, in the course of conversation, what was my favorite piece of music for orchestral strings. I instantly nominated Ralph Vaughan Williams’ Fantasia On A Theme Of Thomas Tallis. It’s been a lifeline for me, a hugely important part of my life for over two decades.… Continue reading A musical interlude

Music that hurts – or helps others to hurt you

Mother Jones magazine has uncovered a list of the songs used by US interrogators to play repeatedly, at high volume, to detainees, in an attempt to break their spirits. 1. Die MF Die – Dope2. Take Your Best Shot – Dope3. White America – Eminem4. Kim – Eminem5. Barney Theme Song – Barney The Dinosaur6.… Continue reading Music that hurts – or helps others to hurt you