Cultural Life: Alex Prior, conductor
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Music
I just finished listening to John Adams's latest opera, 'A Flowering Tree'. A very moving and lyrical turn in style for this great master. I also went to a concert at the Seattle Symphony Orchestra. The highlight was the Barber Violin Concerto, conducted by Gerard Schwarz. I am very fond of American music, especially as it has continued to work with tonal/modal styles, while much of Europe has converted to atonality in the last 100 years.
Films
I recently saw a very touching short film about Chief Seattle and his famous reply – a profound speech about the sacred nature of the environment.
Opera
I saw 'Il Trovatore' at the Seattle Opera. I am not usually somebody who would choose to go to a Verdi opera (conducting it is an all together different matter), but this production followed the composer's wishes and didn't do anything modern.
Books
I just finished reading 'Hallelujah Junction', John Adams's autobiography. It's an amazing journey through his mind.
Alex Prior, the 17-year-old conductor/composer, conducts the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra with four other young virtuosos at the Barbican, London EC2 on 8 April in aid of Children with Leukaemia (Barbican.org.uk)
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments