A mini-ice age that gripped Europe from the 15th to the 19th century may just hold the secret to the spectacular sound of the Stradivarius violin. According to a theory being advanced by two American researchers, the cold weather yielded an unusually dense grade of spruce, which serves as a near-perfect sounding board for the instruments crafted by Italian master Antonio Stradivari.
Tag: 12.03.03
For Want Of A Theatre
There is a big shortage of mid-size dance theatres in New York. “The Joyce seeks to place dance at the front and center of the debate over how to redevelop Lower Manhattan, and central issue is space; that New York’s dance card is full this year only underscores the demand for it. What is needed, dance producers and company directors say, is a midsize-to-large dance theater (1,000 to 2,200 seats) with stages big enough to accommodate large companies with productions — classics like “Swan Lake,” for example — that require more scenery than a backdrop and a few props.”
Sing-along Beethoven
“Taking familiar pieces, both classical and popular, Robert Kapilow uses compositional theories and vigorous storytelling to deconstruct melodies, harmonies, themes and motifs into the essence of a work’s appeal. Lectures, enlivened by audience participation and generally raucous encouragement from Mr. Kapilow, end with a performance by a soloist or orchestra of the complete work analyzed.”
Ancient Chariot Under Road
Highway builders have discovered an ancient chariot buried in their path in West Yorkshire. “Buried for 2,500 years, the find is a complete chariot containing the skeleton of a tribal leader, with the remains of at least 250 cattle, probably slaughtered for the funeral feast.”