8.5.05

Waterlands Blazers Ensemble



A photo of one of the two wind ensembles in which I participate here in the Netherlands. This group rehearses every other Sunday evening in the town of Landsmeer. Tonight is our first rehearsal in preparation for a concert at the end of June.

Can you find me amid this miniature mass of musicians?

P.S. For a larger version of this photograph, click here and scroll down.

Symfonisch Blaasorkest Amsterdamse Tramharmonie



I don't yet have access to a current photo of this, the other orchestra in which I participate. However, here's the flier from our most recent concert on April 9. We were honored to perform in Amsterdam's Concertgebouw, the finest concert hall in the Netherlands and one of the finest in the world (comparable to Carnegie Hall as far as acoustics go, some say). Our program featured pieces from operas as well as musical theater. Two accomplished soloists joined us for the concert, baritone Henk Poort and soprano Wiebke Goetjes.

It was a thrill to perform in such a gorgeous hall with such pristine soloists. One of the highlights of my musical career up 'til now, actually.

7.5.05

Let Your Dialect Be Heard

Kitty Corner, Catty Corner, or Diagonal?
Pop, soda, or cola?
Basement or Cellar?
Take this brief 20 question quiz to find out your particular amalgam of American English. (I'm particularly interested in hearing my family's results. Hey Shochs! Take this quiz!)

Here are my results:



Your Linguistic Profile:



75% General American English

20% Upper Midwestern

5% Midwestern

0% Dixie

0% Yankee