Tag Archive
Beethoven Alive
THEY SAY THE BEST acting—like the best music, best dancing, and best art—is done from the inside. You can learn technique—the outside part—but it doesn’t become ‘art’ until you tap an inner source from whence flows an indescribable something that renders technique secondary: as a tool to be employed. That’s what Clarence Felder did... Read »
The Inner Fabric of Beethoven
IT IS ONE THING to hear his music. It is another to see Beethoven himself on stage with the musicians as he divulges his inner struggles—in particular, his plight with women. In a unique musical-theatre presentation, this is exactly what Clarence Felder does to perfection in the Piccolo Spoleto production of Beethoven, His Women,... Read »
Landscapes for Music
THIS IS JUST ONE of the stunning photos by Michael Kahn (it’s huge) at Martin Gallery on Broad Street. And the serenity of his work could hardly have been better complemented than by a recent performance in the gallery by Chamber Music Charleston. I had heard four of the five musicians before, so I... Read »
Music Medley at Martin Gallery
THERE IS SOMETHING about combining classical music and fine art that brings out the best in both. The syncopation of visual and audio impressions. The mutual sharpening of eye and ear. And simply the elegance of two rich experiences at the same time that enables you to savor the moment in a deeper way.... Read »
War, Kids, and Chocolate
IN THE AFTERMATH of World War II, Germany was divided and the Soviet Union quickly isolated East Germany from the west. Supplies were scarce, so under direction of President Harry Truman, the Allied Forces began the Berlin Airlift. For 15 months, British and American pilots flew more than 277,000 missions to drop more than... Read »
The Septet That Swept Europe
CAN YOU GUESS which of Beethoven’s works was by far the most popular during his early career? Well, you probably have not even heard of it—much less heard it—because the piece called for an unusual combination of seven instruments and belonged to a “divertimento” genre that went out of style in the mid 18th... Read »
A Rabbit, Live Music, and a Reading
IT’S ONE THING to give your kids music lessons. It’s another thing to let them see, listen to, and talk to real musicians. And what better way than to combine it with a live reading by a professional actor? So make plans to bring your children and grandchildren and come share the magic of... Read »
A Classical Circus for Kids
TALK ABOUT PLAYING. Ever heard a percussion explosion, a wind quintet blowout, or a hungry monk orchestra? Well you can this Saturday at Marion Square where your kids can also pick up real instruments and give them a go. They can also bring their own instruments and get some free professional instruction—maybe while you... Read »




Imagine a 10-day Fall festival of Shakespearean plays. In the theatre and in the park. With college and local talent partnering with professional actors. Like the idea? 





