T: is for Talent

Well we made it. Log onto www.xplorefacts.com to see how this blog became an on-line magazine and to hear Lindsay Mac sing.

The end of a year, the start of a new one, what a better time to contemplate the world we live in? My favorite way to start the celebration of life a-new is the Concert for Peace held at St. John the Divine. Started in the 80's by Leonard Bernstein this year marked its 25th anniversary. Set in a magnificent Gothic church that perches on the edge of Harlem at 1047 Amsterdam Ave. (112 St.). This year host, Harry Smith from the Early Show and Biography was joined by an array of talented artists. An evening of music, readings, all geared towards a time of peace on Earth ensued.




















The highlights were: cellist Lindsay Mac's 'Rain'. Playing her cello like a guitar this 26 year old is electrifying. You can hear her on the on-line magazine or go to www.lindsaymac.com. This is an artist to watch. Opera singer Lauren Flanigan soprano is glorious ringing in resonance with Rossini. Judy Collins 'How Can I Keep From Singing?' and ' Amazing Grace' are staples and sent chills. This is the quintessential activist for peace, still going strong. Harry Smith's words were inspiring and I asked for a copy so if I get it I will publish it because it spoke volumes. Aaron Copeland is one of my favorite composers and 'Lincoln's Portrait' has all the reasons why. His music evokes the passion that stirs the Americana in us all. The sweeping of the strings as the horns blare a call to arms, but the joyous outbreak of hope is ever apparent. Copeland's music captures an era of a time of rebirth, rebuilding and vast open spaces. This piece is an oratorio, so on Friday I am including the words of Lincoln because they are a powerful insight to today's problems. Commissioned in 1942 by Andre Castalano this piece was meant to uplift Americans after WW11. Its message is still powerful today. As a finale to the whole night candles were lit, and in this space that is cavernous and glorious the site was spectacular. When it was said that the world needed peace it was if a universal hand pulled the string all the candles raised even higher and it was tears of joy that flowed down several faces.

Don't be sad that you missed this on January 13th at 3 and 6 Let My People Go: A Service of Liberation
A Celebration of Lessons and Carols Commemorating the Abolition of Transatlantic Slavery takes place. Actors, dancers, musicians, readers, and a mass choir celebration of the bicentennial of the abolition of the transatlantic slave trade. On display will be scenes of slavery in New York from the New York and Brooklyn Historical Societies and clips from the New York Reparations Committee's resource guide to Katrina Browne's documentary, Traces of the Trade.

There is always something to celebrate, expand your horizons and entertain you without breaking the bank and that is a F.A.C.T.