This is one of those weeks when I feel really lucky to work at the NAC. There’s something interesting on nearly every night, and I’m fortunate enough to get to see some great artists for free.The week kicked off last night with a performance by the Kodo drummers from Japan. I saw Kodo perform in … More KODO

I can’t stop listening to Intervention from Arcade Fire’s new album Neon Bible. The church organ intro, the steady build, the unexpected chord changes near the end – it’s just great. I’ve been a little slow jumping on the Arcade Fire bandwagon. In the past week, I’ve read numerous articles about them, including a big … More My New Favourite Song

Last night was gala night as the NAC and Opera Lyra Ottawa held the 10th Black and White Opera Soiree. This is the second big fundraising event of the season, and as with the Fall gala, it attracts a well-heeled audience of ambassadors, judges, MP’s, and captains of industry. I dug my old gig suit … More When Harry Met Measha

Bronwen and I went to another orchestra concert last week. This time, Pinchas was conducting a programme that included Shostakovich’s first cello concerto (with Amanda as soloist) and Fauré’s Requiem. I hadn’t listened to this piece in a while, and I was completely taken by the performance. I went home and listened to a recording … More Gotta Love Those Requiems