Whirlwind
I spent last week with the mighty Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Do people really think all orchestras sound the same these days? The CSO musicians have a sound, a personality, and a culture that is all their own. They know they’re great, and it comes across in their playing. I love conducting this orchestra — their sound and music-making get under my skin in a really serious way. I’m gushing, I know, but they’ve really shown me what an orhcestra can do …
It’s all going by very fast right now — in the past 6 weeks, I’ve performed 8 different programs in six different cities. 2 more weeks to go (and two new programs) before things settle down a little. I like the whirlwind, though — it’s like surfing big waves — a little risky, but huge rewards.