Perfect Marriages

Pretzels and Mustard
Mushrooms and Oregano
Hummus and Wine
Tomatoes and Basil
Avocado and Lime
Spinach and Artichokes
Popcorn and Champagne
Apples and Cheese
Fish and Lemon
Jasmine and Vanilla
Coffee and Chocolate

Music and Time
Books and Rain
iPod and Running Shoes
Milk and Naptime
Bookstores and Coffee
Bookstores and Time
Wrath and Rachmaninoff
Andrew Bird and Air
Laughter and Tears
Exercise and Food
Water and Hannah

Hannanigans VI

Frauenliebe und Leben - parts 5 and 6

I dislike almost everything about this next song, Helft mir ihr Schwestern. If the rest of the cycle weren't so beautiful, I wouldn't bother. In fact, I might just cut this one if and when I perform the set. I don't know if it's me being . . . a tomboy? A feminist? Proud? All I know is that I puke a little in my mouth when I sing it - and that's so not good for my voice. Let my bow to my master and Lord? My eyes are rolling out of their sockets.

This next piece, however, is one of the sweetest, most poignant and vulnerable songs in the cycle, and it's hard to sing without weeping - also not good for the voice. Sigh. The occupational hazards of being emotionally involved to your work. Süsser Freund, or "Sweet Friend," captures the sweet and sudden shyness that penetrates an intimate relationship when change, both magnificent and scary, is on the horizon. This beautiful confession is my second favorite of the cycle.

Lifeline

Arrived yesterday! 500 lbs of ivory and ebony beauty. We're pretty much attached at the hip now. Thank you, Miwako, for the loan. You have no idea how much this means.

Awkward Pause

Made it to Japan. I'm at a loss for words that are sayable right now. Bear with me.

Frauenliebe und Leben - part 4

One of my favorite songs from this cycle, Du Ring an meinem Finger is sweetly simple and unadorned. I've always wanted to sing this at a wedding, but most people prefer "My Heart Will Go On" or "From this Moment On." (I just threw up in my mouth a little.) Also, Barbara Bonney's voice is so floaty and lovely that I can't help but sigh when I hear her. Most sopranos spend a lifetime striving for this kind of gentle ease, which you'll also hear in the 6th song, Süsser Freund.