In my large and surprisingly diverse family, being opinionated is the norm. I don’t think any of my relatives will quibble with this — in fact, many of them are proud of it, and see it as a sign of strength. So I grew up talking a lot, trying to be truthful and saying exactly … Read more
There’s something thrilling about the start of a new season. I’m certainly not the first to make note of that thrill, and won’t be the last to feel it. But this year, more than most, seems to be full of potential and genuine enthusiasm. As the arts grow strong again and creators and presenters make … Read more
We’re looking forward to the summer months, when we scale back some of our activities and amp up others. So as of this week, we’ll be moving to a bi-weekly publication schedule for Next7, as follows. This normally weekly newsletter publishes on Thursday or early Friday morning, depending on the demands and activities of the … Read more
The last couple of weeks have been full of drama, decisions, and a calendar packed with grand finales. (And I’m not just talking about Ted Lasso, Mrs. Maisel, Succession, and the like.) With so many presenters and ensembles wrapping up their season and graduations either done or looming, there’s a lot of au revoir in … Read more
Very happy to return after a nerve injury had me sidelined for a few weeks. (Laptops like users to sit up, apparently.) Thanks to all for your patience, and for keeping the music going without me. There was plenty cheering from the sidelines! We’re heading into the last weeks of the classical season, and there … Read more
The official first day of spring is coming up this week, and California has felt like it’s experiencing a huge growth spurt. With so much rain (thank goodness) and more arts happenings taking place everywhere, the world seems to be charged with excitement, even as we continue to learn to live cautiously with COVID. Spring … Read more
Something strange comes together this week, as the rain, snow, and hail bring much-needed precipitation (and flood alerts) to SoCal, often with surprises in tow — including the shocking realizations that not only are we already two months into 2023, Morten Lauridsen is celebrating his 80th birthday this year, with hopefully many to come. With … Read more
For some, it’s that week. Let’s face it, Valentine’s Day isn’t for everyone. But there are lots of reasons to love it, and these musical events are a very, very good start. There’s also chocolate, and teddy bears, and wine, and ridiculous movies, and just reveling in someone or something you love. Find that focus … Read more
Patrick Hare has been elected as a new judge for the LA County Superior Court. Danielle Marcelle Bond and Milena Gligic have a new album released.
Veterans Day is about service, and in a very specific way. But that service looks very different from person to person, because every experience, every deployment, every war, every locale, every job is a different bundle of things that make each story unique. This year, try to connect with at least one person who has … Read more
