The United States

Once upon a time, in grade school, we had to memorize “The American's Creed,” written by William Tyler Page in 1917. I still remember parts of it. “I believe in the United States of America as a government of the people, by the people, for the people; whose just powers are derived from the consent … Continue reading The United States →

When in the Course

I was born at the beginning of the Eisenhower era and was raised by Republican parents. Even so, they preferred JFK to Richard Nixon, so there’s that. I came of age during the Viet Nam war; however, I was too young to be drafted. Many who graduated high school before me paid a terrible price. … Continue reading When in the Course →

Efficiency 2.0

Efficiency as an area of expertise did not exist until the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The quest for greater efficiency is therefore a product of the industrial revolution. I’m not convinced the concept even applies to anything beyond assembly lines, shipping, and certain types of office work. In my last post, I questioned … Continue reading Efficiency 2.0 →

Efficiency

I’ve had an earworm for several days. I looked it up, thinking that knowing the title would make it go away. I found that it’s from the march, “King Cotton,” by John Philip Sousa. Once upon a time, I played this march. Contrary to my expectations, the earworm did not go away. It strikes me … Continue reading Efficiency →

Greatness

Some say the USA is a “great” country. To be fair, millions of people consider their countries great as well. Some want to make America great “again.” I’m not sure they can define what greatness means, beyond “my country first” or “the way things used to be.” Some in high places seem to believe they … Continue reading Greatness →

A Music Lesson

Before I played the Tomasi Concerto with the IU Orchestra, Keith Brown, the conductor, gave me some advice. He said words to this effect: “Keep in mind, a large orchestra can’t turn on a dime like a pianist can. Think of the orchestra like a tractor trailer, and a pianist like sports car.” Good advice. … Continue reading A Music Lesson →