The spring series of David Dubal's Piano Evenings has begun. In the program this week were performances, by Brielle Perez, of Turina's Danzas Fantasticas and, by Hongbo Cai, of the Choral et Variations by Henri Dutilleux. David Dubal has introduced me to many exciting performers and to much great music. Here's two more examples.

Now listening to Bedrich Smetana, Quartet No. 1, From my Life on Sirius XM. Quite an effective foil to recording my thoughts on the morning's news. I haven't listened to this piece in a long time, and it very effectively moved me to a much more settled place. Will return to this soon I think. I wish I could suggest that the White House play this music and selections like it. (I remember when President Obama shared some pretty interesting playlists of his music choices. This might be an effective way for the current resident to build some understanding and communication in the country. Certainly better than just declaring that everything the government does is evil and wasteful.)

When I tuned in earlier I heard the end of a Mendelssohn piece, Christus, I think. I mean to track that down later.