Still one of the greatest violinists in history people somehow forget to mention 2025 at 03:39 PM · It must have been a real pleasure to hear Midori's Poulenc I have her recording with Robert MacDonald and I haven't heard a recording that comes close This article has been archived and is no longer accepting comments Violinist.com is made possible by.. Shar Music Los Angeles Philharmonic Peter Infeld Strings JR Judd Violins Dimitri Musafia, Master Maker of Violin and Viola Cases Pirastro Strings Juilliard 2025 Starling-DeLay Violin Symposium Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra Colburn Chamber Music Intensive Find a Summer Music Program Violinist.com Shopping Guide Larsen Strings ARIA Academy Bobelock Cases Violin Lab Barenreiter Bay Fine Strings Violin Shop FiddlerShop Fiddlerman.com Johnson String Instrument/Carriage House Violins Southwest Strings Metzler Violin Shop Los Angeles Violin Shop Violin-strings.com Nazareth Gevorkian Violins Discover the best of Violinist.com in these collections of editor Laurie Niles' exclusive interviews Violinist.com Interviews Volume 1, with introduction by Hilary Hahn Violinist.com Interviews Volume 2, with introduction by Rachel Barton Pine Midori performed Thursday night at Groton Hill Music’s Meadow Hall for the Celebrity Series Midori made the front page of The New York Times after a performance of Leonard Bernstein’s Serenade at Tanglewood resulted in two broken E strings and the then-14-year-old playing on three different violins Thursday night’s recital from the violin virtuoso and pianist Özgür Aydin at Groton Hill Music’s Meadow Hall involved a bit less drama: there were no snapped strings or alternate instruments pressed into service Midori’s playing has lost none of its fire or intensity as was evident across the evening’s traversal of works by Robert Schumann Schumann’s Stücke im Volkston was a late substitution for Che Buford’s Resonances of Spirit the inclusion meant that the evening’s advertised study of “mourning and lamentation across cultures” became instead a survey of Franco-German keening the Schumann provided the night one of its most obviously folksy points of reference this five-movement suite traffics in the same sort of unbrilliant writing for the soloist that mars the composer’s first two violin sonatas and his Violin Concerto Midori navigated its abundant low- and mid-tessitura figurations not to mention its crunchy double- and triple stops the violinist’s extraordinary bowing technique ensured that each movement offered strong contrasts of character Romani refrains were countered by the second’s sweetly lyrical turns and the third’s beautifully projected double stops Aydin dispatched the keyboard part with equal vigor the stormy dialogues in “Nicht zu rasch” and the finale’s sinewy passagework The pair’s interpretation of Brahms’s Violin Sonata in G major was cut from similar cloth for much of the work’s thirty-minute duration This meant that the Sonata’s quiet moments—the velvety opening of the Vivace the finale’s unsettled refrains—sang with absorbing focus Aydin’s delivery of the Sonata’s busy textures he and Midori consistently managed a remarkable degree of tonal and articulative unanimity between their instruments One might have appreciated a bit more of the last in the duo’s account of Poulenc’s sometimes-charming sometimes-harrowing Sonata: the piano occasionally dominated its opening movement’s spastic the pair imbued this unsettling score’s sultry Lorca-inspired Intermezzo with Iberian warmth and they channeled the proper measure of dynamics and expression in the concluding Presto tragico a demonic moto perpetuo and elegant melodic phrases Edith Piaf might have sung culminate in a clangorous denouement Lucien Garban’s lovely arrangement of Ravel’s Kaddish brought the evening back from the brink of the abyss Midori let her hair down (figuratively) and stomped her feet (literally) through the first page or so of Tzigane Ravel’s rhapsodic ode to gypsy fiddling remains the first and last word in pure violinistic technique; its keyboard accompaniment isn’t for the faint of heart showcased two artists at the top of their respective games reveling in the joy of instrumental pyrotechnics Their enchanting encore of Pauline Viardot’s “Hai Luli,” on the other hand reminded that sometimes the most powerful statements are simple ones rendered without fuss or pretension The program will be repeated 8 p.m. Friday at Jordan Hall. celebrityseries.org Posted in Performances XHTML: You can use these tags: <a href="" title=""> <abbr title=""> <acronym title=""> <b> <blockquote cite=""> <cite> <code> <del datetime=""> <em> <i> <q cite=""> <s> <strike> <strong> Δdocument.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value" “I have shut my balcony / because I do not want to hear the weeping,” begins the Spanish poet Federico García Lorca in “Casida of the Lament.” And yet “the weeping is an immense violin,” the poem later continues / nothing else is heard but the weeping.” written shortly before Lorca’s execution in 1936 by fascist forces during the Spanish Civil War is the emotional cornerstone of Midori’s upcoming recital program The world-renowned violinist is touring the country in early March to perform works themed around suffering and loss and Robert Schumann will fill Finney Chapel on March 5 at 7:30 p.m. when Midori kicks off her latest recital tour as part of the Oberlin Artist Recital Series “ This is a partnership that has lasted for quite a long time now,” the violinist says of her collaborations with pianist Aydin “I’ve enjoyed being able to work with him on various repertoire—I am often very inspired in the process.” the composer Frances Poulenc was also inspired by the poetry of Federico García Lorca writing his Sonata for Violin and Piano in Lorca’s memory This acknowledgement of the poet was an act of political resistance for Poulenc who wrote the score in Nazi-occupied France between 1942 and 1943 “Intermezzo,” is based on the first line of Lorca’s poem “The Six Strings,” which reads: “The guitar makes dreams weep.” While Poulenc’s Sonata is the program’s most modern composition the oldest is Robert Schumann’s Fünf Stücke im Volkston (“Five Pieces in Folk Style”) this collection of short works draws on folk music traditions from the German composer’s home country Although Schumann originally wrote it for cello and piano he also made a version that swaps the cello for violin—preceding his first violin sonata Schumann was a key mentor figure to Johannes Brahms he publicly praised the younger German’s work Schumann’s vast output of chamber music inspired Brahms to create some of his own Midori will be playing the first—the Violin Sonata No 1 in G—which the composer wrote between 1878 and 1879 When Brahms published the score to this three-movement work he described it as a “Sonata for Piano and Violin,” a nod to the equal musical partnership between both instruments Rounding out the program are two works by Maurice Ravel whose upcoming 150th birthday will be celebrated on March 7 Ravel was a freewheeling musical personality with a penchant for breaking the rules He also wrote plenty of music influenced by folk melodies like the chant-like “Kaddish” from Deux mélodies hébraïques (“Two Hebrew Songs”)—a surprisingly spiritual outing from a man who often distanced himself from religion draws from the style of a Hungarian rhapsody Midori says she looks forward to performing the expansive program in Oberlin and beyond as well as continuing her collaboration with Özgür Aydin “ It's always interesting when we’re able to really discuss musical ideas and spend the time to really work together in shaping an interpretation for a performance,” she says But her two part-residency in Oberlin is not just about performing—it also highlights the violinist’s commitment to education The founder of multiple non-profits around the world including Midori & Friends in New York City and MUSIC SHARING in Japan the violinist is a dedicated humanitarian and pedagogue Leading up to her Artist Recital Series appearance she visited campus from February 19 to 21 to give masterclasses in violin performance and chamber music as well as a career talk at the Cat in the Cream Coffeehouse Her goal was to reach all of the young violinists in the Conservatory—close to 50 in total “ I really enjoyed having the opportunity to work with the Oberlin students,” she says “The students are all so committed to their repertoire and their technique positive energy in terms of feedback.”
 Concert tickets are available online and by phone at 800-371-0178. Patrons may also purchase them in person between noon and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, at Oberlin College's Central Ticket Service in the lobby of the Eric Baker Nord Performing Arts Complex Free Artist Recital Series tickets for enrolled Oberlin College and Conservatory students are available through the Claim Your Seat program made possible through the generosity of Richard ’62 and Linda ’62 Clark Learn more about the Arts at Oberlin This program is proudly supported by Ideastream Public Media official media partner of the Artist Recital Series “Strum,” “Strike,” and “Bend” are all evocative references to the physicality of string and percussion instruments The vocalist and songwriter brings her distinct blend of folk and more to Finney Chapel on April 6 in an appearance with the Martha Redbone Roots Project “It was really amazing going into the community and performing an art form that they probably haven't seen before,” second-year voice major Ella Vaugn said “Teachers would tell us that they've never seen their students so engaged.” Oberlin has separate application processes for the College of Arts and Sciences and the Conservatory of Music You have exceptional musical talent and intellectual enthusiasm.We have a place just for you Join us at the Akustika Fair at the Nuremberg Exhibition Centre from April 4-6 Meet The Strad team at stand F08 and pick up a free copy of the magazine The Strad Directory Jobs US correspondent Thomas May reviews Midori’s performance of the Brahms concerto with the Seattle Symphony under guest conductor Anja Bihlmaier on 23 January 2025 Midori offers a provocatively thoughtful account of the Brahms concerto with Anja Bihlmaier making her Seattle Symphony debut on the podium In the more than 15 years since Midori last performed with Seattle Symphony,  the orchestra has undergone dramatic transformation returned with the same intense focus and uncompromising artistry that have long defined her career Her account of the Brahms Concerto encompassed both grandeur and intimacy Midori seemed to shun the more comfortable ways of shaping a phrase driven by a provocatively introspective approach she seemed to be reconsidering this known universe from a new perspective with an almost analytical sensibility showing little interest in Romantic notions of struggle and individualism – yet with an unsentimental awareness of the lacrimae rerum.  The first movement was unusually broad and expansive giving Midori ample space for reflection as she sculpted her lines with purpose and luminous clarity making her Seattle Symphony debut with this programme demonstrated a clear rapport and embraced the violinist’s slow Not that dramatic tension lacked: Midori produced electrifying trills that seemed to kindle the orchestra Her rendering of the Joachim cadenza had the depth and complexity of an interior monologue.    Bihlmaier was an actively engaged partner throughout supporting and enhancing Midori’s storytelling approach If the orchestra on occasion overpowered the soloist in the outer movements Bihlmaier’s nuanced cultivation of textures in the Adagio stood out – as did the poignant espressivo of oboist Mary Lynch VanderKolk.   Midori found complexity in the finale as well she undertook several introspective excursions that kept Romantic exuberance at a distance.  Midori played the Prelude from Bach’s E major Partita unfurling the music as a seamlessly lyrical rainbow – a small miracle of rhythmic precision and crystalline clarity Bihlmaier also led finely gauged performances of Wagner’s Lohengrin Prelude – marked by beautifully rounded string ensemble – and the orchestral Ballade in A minor composed in 1898 (a year after Brahms’s death) by the precociously talented Samuel Coleridge-Taylor She made her strongest impression with Schumann’s Symphony No Her deep understanding of the composer’s idiosyncratic transitions allowed Bihlmaier to mould an urgently compelling narrative from the work’s interlinked movements Read: ’I’m always looking for something new’ - Midori: In love with music Read: Midori: Active Listener Read: ’He taught me how to stand up for what I believed in’ – Midori remembers Isaac Stern Watch: ’Sometimes my violin gets grouchy,’ says Midori In The Best of Technique you’ll discover the top playing tips of the world’s leading string players and teachers It’s packed full of exercises for students plus examples from the standard repertoire to show you how to integrate the technique into your playing The Strad’s Masterclass series brings together the finest string players with some of the greatest string works ever written Masterclass has been an invaluable aid to aspiring soloists chamber musicians and string teachers since the 1990s The Canada Council of the Arts’ Musical Instrument Bank is 40 years old in 2025 This year’s calendar celebrates some its treasures including four instruments by Antonio Stradivari and priceless works by Montagnana Leah Hollingsworth hears the performance of Wiancko Franghiz Ali-Zadeh and Terry Riley at 92NY Marking Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day with the portrait album WITNESS composer Mary Kouyoumdjian and Kronos Quartet’s David Harrington reflect on their decade-long collaboration – and music’s power to grapple with difficult themes Jack Quartet violinist Austin Wulliman and violist John Pickford Richards speak with US correspondent Thomas May about their upcoming marathon at Wigmore Hall where the ensemble will perform three signature programmes all on the same day  An all-American celebration of the concept of home Fine musicianship can’t quite overcome a flawed programme concept Plenty of musicality but perhaps a lack of virtuoso pizzazz Site powered by Webvision Cloud Please select what you would like included for printing: Copy the text below and then paste that into your favorite email application mother and grandmother passed away on Saturday A funeral service will be held in the chapel at Ott & Lee Funeral Home in Brandon on Thursday at 11:00 am with visitation beginning one hour prior The burial will be at Pearl Hill Cemetery in Carthage She spotted Charles in his Air Force uniform and was immediately smitten…they were married in 1959 where she was a resident for 50 years until her passing She and Charles loved watching their fruit trees grow she created beautiful cakes and made delicious preserves from her figs and muscadines…her homemade Japanese dishes were always a big hit…especially teriyaki fried chicken and gyoza She was a wonderful homemaker and had been known to rearrange the furniture while her children were at school she discovered her artistic talents and enjoyed painting with oils and watercolors she managed to hit the only tree stump in an open field and ripped the oil pan off She was a supportive mother and loved her grandchildren dearly Connor Stevenson and Mason Mooney; one great granddaughter memorials may be made to Park Place Baptist Church at 5701 US-80 Enter your phone number above to have directions sent via text This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply Service map data © OpenStreetMap contributors What is tough to handle are all the dying kids Either there were fewer child deaths in the early seasons or I just didn’t notice because I didn’t have kids back then it feels like a blatant emotional shortcut but it’s brutally effective at leaving viewers wrecked young people—under 25—have died including Mika’s sister Chloe last week and a teenager with multiple aneurysms this week Grey’s is still yanking the rug out from under us removing four aneurysms from a teenage patient it wasn’t the aneurysms that killed her — it was her heart which wouldn’t restart after surgery At least we were spared the inevitable scene of Dr Warren breaking the news to the patient’s mom a woman he’d previously dated and ghosted there were two truly ridiculous storylines this week a heatwave sent Jo and Lucas to a convenience store to grab ice The second absurd storyline saw Sophia Bush’s character return and Owen had just about forgiven it until he saw Bush’s character affectionately touch Teddy’s arm “It’s just a misunderstanding,” Owen was already in the parking lot offering a ride (in his car) to an attractive stranger played by Floriana Lima from A Million Little Things The episode began six months after Chloe’s death with Mika returning to work for the first time But she’s clearly not ready — everything reminds her of her sister Mika realizes she can’t continue being a doctor Mika is officially out — the first of the five interns from two and a half seasons ago to quit Midori Francis’s exit was her decision She’s already busy with other projects including her role on Sex Lives of College Girls We’ll (hopefully) have to settle for more recurring appearances from Sophia Bush who will hopefully wreck Teddy and Owen’s marriage for good because 1) they are annoying and 2) the show needs more LGBTQ characters after the loss of Mika and Levi There are no statistics available for this player Thanks for visiting The use of software that blocks ads hinders our ability to serve you the content you came here to enjoy We ask that you consider turning off your ad blocker so we can deliver you the best experience possible while you are here NEW YORK, Feb. 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Midori & Friends, a leading music education nonprofit organization, today announced the appointment of Hiroshi Kawano to its Board of Directors. Mr. Kawano currently serves as Head of Japanese Corporate Banking Division at Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG) Kawano brings over 25 years of extensive financial expertise and leadership experience to the board he oversees Japanese corporate banking operations throughout the Americas region as Executive Officer and Managing Director and Head of Global Planning from June 2021 he successfully led MUFG's international operations planning He also played a pivotal role in the strategic sale of MUFG Union Bank to U.S Bancorp as the Tokyo Transition Management Office lead His prior positions include Managing Director and Deputy Head of Corporate Planning Division in Tokyo where he drove transformational management initiatives and Chief Manager of the Global Commercial Banking Planning Division overseeing business development in the Pacific Rim area Kawano's experience also includes five years at Mitsubishi UFJ Morgan Stanley's M&A division and various corporate finance roles serving large Japanese corporations both in Japan and the United States "I am deeply honored to be appointed as a board member of this esteemed music organization," said Mr "I believe that music has the power to transform lives and I am thrilled to contribute to the growth and success of this organization fostering a vibrant community of children and educators."  President of the Board of Directors at Midori & Friends "We are delighted to welcome Hiroshi Kawano to our Board of Directors His exceptional leadership experience and deep understanding of both American and Japanese business cultures will be invaluable as we continue to expand our music education programs Kawano's passion for the arts and commitment to community development align perfectly with our mission to transform young lives through music education."  Kawano holds an MBA from the University of California and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Hitotsubashi University The William Inge play is making an NYC return in a co-production between Classic Stage Company Midori Francis (Dash and Lily) will star as Cherie in Off-Broadway's upcoming all-Asian American revival of William Inge's Bus Stop set to begin performances May 8 ahead of a May 18 opening night at Classic Stage Company's Lynn F The revival is a co-production between CSC with performances to continue through June 8 centers on the happenings in a midwestern bus stop when stormy weather strands a bus full of eccentric passengers Marilyn Monroe famously starred as Cherie in a 1956 film version with Kim Stanley creating the role on stage Transport Group Artistic Director Jack Cummings III is at the helm for the new staging which will feature scenic design by Peiyi Wong Kevin Zhu will serve as production stage manager Tickets are at ClassicStage.org Gail Kriegel's new play follows a family affected by mental illness The Tony-winning Best Musical continues at the Walter Kerr Theatre Noah Himmelstein will direct Matthew Puckett's original musical Neumann is the Tony nominated choreographer behind Hadestown and Swept Away one Tony winner is playing the trumpet while the other is channeling Madame Rose Due to the expansive nature of Off-Broadway Thank You!You have now been added to the list Blocking belongson the stage,not on websites Our website is made possible bydisplaying online advertisements to our visitors Please consider supporting us bywhitelisting playbill.com with your ad blocker.Thank you Valdivia Is an MTA Board Member and Veteran of Major Transportation Agencies in New York City Conversation Focuses on Importance of Bus Service How Transportation Needs Evolve at Different Stages of Life How Street Safety Can Be Fun and Make Neighborhoods More Livable NEW YORK – New York City Department of Transportation (NYC DOT) Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez today announced the release of the third episode of the agency's Curb Enthusiasm podcast a board member of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) and a veteran of major transportation agencies in New York City the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and the New York City Taxi and Limousine Commission The conversation focuses on the importance of buses how transportation needs evolve at different stages of life how street safety can be fun and make neighborhoods more livable how cities can work together on transportation equity and opportunity in the transportation field "The Curb Enthusiasm podcast is about having a dialogue on the most consequential transportation and urban planning issues facing cities all over the world," said NYC DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez "As a veteran of major transportation that spans everything from the subways that operate underground to the buses and for-hire vehicles that operate above ground Midori brings a wealth of knowledge and insight into how transportation works in the biggest city in America." The Curb Enthusiasm podcast focuses on issues at the local and international level and features guests who discuss the most consequential transportation work happening all over the globe The episode is co-hosted by Emily Weidenhof assistant commissioner of Public Realm at NYC DOT director of the Office of Freight Mobility at NYC DOT Midori Valdivia (she/her/ella) is a transportation and urban planning professional committed to expanding mobility options for people As the Founder + Principal of Midori Valdivia Consulting LLC she specializes in advisory services and project leadership for organizations making change in cities Valdivia has led a career in public service holding senior roles at major transportation agencies in New York City Her experience spans across a variety of modes including subways She began her career in financial analysis and capital planning at the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey Prior to developing her own consulting practice Valdivia was the Chief of Staff to the Chair & CEO of the MTA She also held the role of Deputy Commissioner at the New York City Taxi & Limousine Commission the agency responsible for licensing and regulating taxis and other for-hire services such as Uber and Lyft Valdivia led the development of the largest wheelchair-accessible taxi fleet in the nation at the time She also served as Senior Advisor to the Executive Director at the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey Valdivia is a graduate of the Princeton School of Public and International Affairs where she received a joint degree in Public Affairs and Urban & Regional Planning She received her bachelor's degree at Penn State Valdivia is a frequent subway and bus rider She is part of communities that work to increase representation of women and people of color across the urban planning sector She lives in Brooklyn with her partner and daughter Emily Weidenhof is assistant commissioner of Public Realm at New York City DOT Emily works closely with community organizations throughout the five boroughs to transform their streets as public space she has focused on strengthening communities through the creation of plazas and shared streets and retooling the curb lane for innovative programming She's also played an integral role in NYC DOT's Broadway Vision Plan which employs a range of tools to reimagine the famed Manhattan corridor from Union Square to Columbus Circle which now prioritizes pedestrians and cyclists Emily has worked as an architect and urban designer in Pennsylvania including at the NYC Department of City Planning Emily received her bachelor's degree in architecture from Pennsylvania State University and her master's degree in architecture and urban design from Columbia University Diniece Mendes is the freight mobility director for NYC's Department of Transportation Diniece spearheads transformative programs rooted in Delivering New York and Delivering Green and resilience of New York City's supply chain to bolster urban livability and economic vitality Diniece serves as Vice President on the Board of Governors for ASCE's Transportation and Development Institute where she champions the engineering profession and promotes diversity in STEM careers inspiring the next generation of changemakers Diniece received her master's degree in civil engineering with a specialization in transportation from University of Texas - Austin and her bachelor's degree in civil engineering from City College CUNY Northwest Asian Weekly January 24, 2025 By Violin virtuoso Midori’s matter-of-fact affect and modesty bely a prodigious career that has taken her to the heights of her profession Since her debut as a soloist with the New York Philharmonic at age 11 the now-53-year-old violinist performs regularly at the Vienna Philharmonic and many other temples of music across the globe she returns to Benaroya Hall in Downtown Seattle to perform the technically precise and challenging Midori opened the weekend run on Thursday night with concerts to follow on Friday and Saturday evening Friday’s concert is part of the Seattle Symphony’s Lunar New Year Gala co-hosted by Seattle Symphony Associate Concertmaster Helen Kim The evening will also feature a dinner prepared by Chef Annie Elmore Director of Tom Douglas’ Hot Stove Society inspired by her Cambodian and Vietnamese heritage Tickets to the gala range from $1,000 per guest to $50,000 for a table of eight Audiences the world over have been feasting on Midori’s music for decades Midori picked up her first violin on her third birthday an instrument 1/16 the size of a regular violin Her professional violinist mother was soon her first violin teacher and her debut public performance was at age 6 she moved to New York to pursue her music career Midori first performed with the Seattle Symphony in 1996 at the Seattle Center She also performed with the Seattle Symphony in 2009 at Benaroya Hall she was featured in a recital at Benaroya in April 2023 “Benaroya Hall is one of the halls I look forward to returning to because it’s so beautiful,” Midori said during a virtual interview with the Northwest Asian Weekly earlier this week “To be able to play such an amazing work in such an incredible hall is just so special.” “I am very much looking forward to performing the Brahms concerto with the Seattle Symphony,” Midori continued “Brahms’ Violin Concerto is one of the most important concertos for my instrument It stirs deep in your soul and I really love playing this work every single time.”  In 2021, in the midst of the pandemic, Midori was recognized with the Kennedy Center Honors perhaps the most prestigious honor in American music Rockefeller III Award by the Asian Cultural Council Midori is the Judge Widney Professor of Music at the University of Southern California She is also the Artistic Director of Ravinia Steans Music Institute Midori continues to stretch her repertoire she commissioned composer Derek Bermel’s “Spring Cadenzas.”   “I keep sharing this idea with the students and youth orchestras. We’re the agents that are able to bring this out to the world and that can share this with others,” Midori told PBS NewsHour in 2021 “We’re the ones that are giving life to this new music And to be able to work with living composers Tickets for Midori’s performance this weekend are available here: https://www.seattlesymphony.org/en/concerttickets/calendar/2024-2025/24sub9 « Back A cozy cafe serving Japanese matcha and French pastries opened its doors last month in Falls Church Offerings at Midori Tea House include sparkling fruit drinks Broad Street is all about the hand-whisked green tea drink “We wanted to keep the traditional way of how matcha is made recipes that we added together … just something fun to drink [that] everyone can try out,” Pan said named after the Japanese word for “green,” offers standard matcha lattes plus flavors like orange a striking purple ube and Pan’s personal favorite unless you see them put maple into your drink,” she said it has a hint of salt in there to bring out the flavor together It’s what I could just drink everyday.” Drinks can be customized by sweetness level or by adding toppings like Biscoff cookie crumble Homemade treats like macarons pull on European influences like a yuzu mousse cake and ube tres leches Pan first fell in love with Japanese cuisine as a waitress at a Japanese restaurant while attending Virginia Tech A later trip to Japan introduced her to rich flavorful matcha that she hadn’t yet experienced in the States She enjoys the beverage as a substitute for coffee due to its similar caffeine content Pan hinted at upcoming seasonal flavors like toffee nut said she has enjoyed the past few weeks opening her first brick-and-mortar location She had previously operated the tea house as a pop-up shop around Northern Virginia for about a year “One of our missions is to be like a lighthouse and the most beloved in the neighborhood,” Pan said “The community here is very welcoming and supportive of my new-coming business The cafe’s space used to hold Stylish Patina Home boutique which is currently in business nearby at 248 W The award celebrates the violinist’s humanitarian and educational work Read more news stories here Violinist Midori was awarded the American String Teachers Assocation (ASTA) Artist Teacher Award at the organisation’s national conference’s opening plenary on 20 March The conference is taking place from 19 to 22 March in Atlanta The award celebrates the violinist’s humanitarian work and educational initiatives Midori is also a member of the ASTA national board the programme director of Midori’s Orchestra Residencies Programs accepted the award on behalf of the violinist and read out a speech written by Midori in which she said: ’Education is one of the guiding pillars of my life and career Sharing knowledge and helping others to find their artistic voice is a clear light in motivating future musicians.’ She also stressed the importance of fostering active change where art can help young people explore their individual creativity.  Alongside being one of the world’s leading violinists Midori has spearheaded several humanitarian and educational projects in her career provides tuition-free music education programmes to over 320,000 students in New York City in order to transform young people’s lives and enrich communities.  The violinist’s Orchestra Residencies Programs is directed towards youth orchestra musicians Midori participates in activities with youth orchestra members She also takes the role of arts advocate by visiting local legislators.  Other educational projects include MUSIC SHARING which is active throughout Asia and brings both classical and traditional Japanese music to children She is also involved in Partners in Performance which brings music to small communities and young people with limited access to music.  Midori is a United Nations Messenger of Peace she helps to advance the organisation’s Sustainable Development Goals through quality music education she was named a Kennedy Center Honoree in recognition of her work.  Read: Joseph Conyers receives ASTA Artist Teacher Award Read: Postcard from Orlando: ASTA 2023 national conference Violinist Tim Fisher has been a member of the orchestra for over 38 years The London venue has voluntarily withdrawn from the Arts Council England portfolio following successful fundraising of £10 million two years ahead of schedule Explore photos and read a short round-up of The Strad’s visit to Atlanta for the 2025 ASTA conference The violinist has been appointed artistic director of Clarion Concerts which provides chamber music concerts and experiences in New York’s Hudson Valley The Astatine Trio and Novo Quartet join the scheme from 2025–2027 Ten ensembles will compete for the chance to win the top prize package at this year’s competition from 25 to 31 August who tells us the project begins when she inherits the 1977 MINI vehicle from its previous owner at an unplanned moment I came up with the idea of turning it into a mobile listening bar around Tokyo,’ the owner shares While she thinks of the concept of playing records wherever MIDORI stops around Tokyo who brings in the idea of a listening minibar ‘He renovates an off-grid trailer called Mobile SS into a listening room He launches it as a sustainable project that incorporates culture,’ Shiori Tanaka explains to designboom the owner drives the MINI car around Tokyo She follows the tour schedule then that the team shares on the Instagram page of the listening minibar MIDORI The 1977 MINI Clubman Estate serves as the minibar of MIDORI. Shiori Tanaka transforms the passenger seats at the back as the place to serve cocktails and drinks. She flaps the back doors open for extra space and ventilation. The owner also replaces the rear window with a flap-style acrylic to act as the serving counter After the Tokyo music fans stop by to get drinks at the listening minibar MIDORI they can move to the off-grid trailer with solar panels on top for some tunes the trailer can accommodate a couple of people inside Shiori Tanaka tells designboom that the design team strips down most of the trailer’s interior to a skeleton They apply wooden panels ‘dyed in the same color as the steering wheel’ inside On one end of the listening minibar MIDORI in Tokyo there’s audio equipment for the DJ or music producer we connected turntables to play records on the street The sound experience is enhanced by custom vacuum tube amplifiers designed by Komatsu Sound Lab,’ the owner shares with us.  bright green 1977 MINI Clubman Estate car as the minibar they work with DJs to remix the records they have on board They can even play their own music for the crowd This means they can do so whether it’s inside the trailer or just beside the refurbished MINI Clubman Estate Shiori Tanaka lets us know that for the minibar she deliberately goes for a vintage car instead of a typical food truck it brings charm to the visitors and it’s more accessible ‘Also because I really love cars,’ she says another reason she brings the listening minibar MIDORI in Tokyo to life is because she wants visitors to feel stimulating joy in their lives people might stumble upon a stall on the street and stop by casually,’ she shares with us and that experience could become one of their most memorable moments of the trip living in Japan often makes such spontaneous and exciting experiences harder to come by since everything can be found via Google Maps or social media I hope to offer that kind of serendipitous stall experience for people living in Tokyo and Japan with the listening minibar MIDORI.’ So far it’s a pop-up concept mobile bar that stops by around Tokyo I might consider using a larger car for a project called Bigbar in the future,’ Shiori Tanaka tells designboom the vintage MINI tows a refurbished off-grid trailer called Mobile SS the rear part of the MINI car acts as the minibar with a serving counter the off-grid trailer can accommodate people inside so they can listen to the records while drinking there are solar panels on top of the off-grid trailer the listening minibar MIDORI stops around different streets in Tokyo the team also works with DJs for the music playing inside the trailer view of the records inside the off-grid trailer view of the drinks served and prepared in the MINI car name: Listening minibar MIDORI | @minibar_midori, @oasis_kyoju owner: Shiori Tanaka | @shiorino0 trailer: Mobile SS with Shogo Jimbo | @shogojimbo, @drivethru.jp AXOR presents three bathroom concepts that are not merely places of function but destinations in themselves — sanctuaries of style Become a member Support us Sign up to newsletter violinFranz Schubert FilharmoniaRobert Treviño Mendelssohn: Concerto for violin and orchestra we have forged bonds of friendship with such world-renowned artists as violinist Midori who did not want to miss out on celebrating our anniversary with us Making what will be her third appearance with the Franz Schubert Filharmonia Midori will perform Mendelssohn’s emblematic Violin Concerto We’re also delighted to welcome acclaimed conductor Robert Treviño for his debut performance with us In the second half he will conduct Tchaikovsky’s dramatic Symphony No Join us for this musical celebration of friendship and love We’re honoured to count on Midori’s friendship as well as her virtuosic and elegant playing Having already accompanied her in the Brahms and Tchaikovsky Violin Concertos we’re looking forward to working with her this time on the Mendelssohn – perhaps the most intense of all Romantic violin concertos Mexican-American conductor Robert Treviño leads us through another cornerstone of orchestral Romanticism: Tchaikovsky’s Fifth Symphony In this work the composer makes great play of a recurring motif often known as the “fate theme” He introduces it in different forms into every movement to create a work of powerful thematic unity whose musical fabric brings us moments of introspection and intensity as well as others of brilliance and luminosity C/ Palau de la Música, 4-608003 BarcelonaT. 932 957 207[email protected] Monday to Saturday: from 8.30 am to 9 pm.Sunday and public holidays: from 8.30 am to 3.30 pm and 2 hours before the concert (for sale day) TOGETHER!, the movement of young mission-driven entrepreneurs and civil society leaders co-founded by former presidential candidate Jason Palmer, today announced a pivot in strategy and a new Chief Executive Officer, Midori Grabowski Experience is set to revolutionize how young changemakers engage with the world by launching a premier membership community designed to amplify young voices and drive meaningful social Experience members will gain access to a powerful network and exclusive opportunities that help them save money Ms. Grabowski joins TOGETHER! after five years of success connecting young people with civic engagement opportunities. She has a strong background in establishing partnerships and leading events with community organizations and influencers to amplify Gen Z’s voice in business and politics. Midori most recent served as Senior Director of Operations with Voters of Tomorrow a Gen Z organization that engages and represents young Americans in politics and government and on the social media platforms of President Barack Obama reflecting her passion for amplifying diverse voices and fostering community action Midori will expand our innovative platform to serve as a hub where mission-driven young people—including entrepreneurs By blending in-person and digital communities Experience will empower young leaders to champion impactful discourse and initiatives while unlocking professional and networking experiences they might not typically have access to on their own “As young people continue to shape the future of business Experience will be a driving force for mobilization “We’re building a movement that not only supports the causes young people care about but also fuels their personal and professional growth.” “We’re thrilled to have Midori leading TOGETHER Two things I heard repeatedly on the campaign trail from young Americans are how expensive it’s become to live in big cities and how difficult it’s become for young people to gain entry to special events for career connections we think we can solve both of those problems for America’s future leaders.” Experience Membership Card will officially launch in May 2025 and is actively securing strategic partnerships with major brands and influencers to maximize value for its members Co-founder of TOGETHER! and founding Board Member Kwame Jackson says “We’re delighted to have Midori leading our team I’ve been extremely impressed with her efforts I’m certain Midori’s leadership will enable TOGETHER to achieve our vision to become the best advocates for authentic new GenZ and Millennial voices” Join TOGETHER! to empower the next generation of leaders and shape a civil society that reflects the values and aspirations of our diverse nation. To learn more, visit togetherpurple.org © Copyright 2012 - 2023 | citybiz | All Rights Reserved Welcome to BirdLife International en As a global Partnership We have translated as much content in your language as our resources allow Please visit the English language site to view all of our content has been awarded the 2024 Midori Prize for Biodiversity for her outstanding contributions to conservation in Kazakhstan celebrated by Princess Takamado and the global BirdLife community The Midori Prize for Biodiversity is a prestigious international award that celebrates remarkable achievements in biodiversity conservation recognising individuals and organisations making a significant impact on the planet’s ecosystems and promoting sustainable ways of coexisting with nature.  Founded in 2010 by Japan’s AEON Environmental Foundation the prize takes its name from the Japanese word “Midori,” meaning “green.” It envisions a world where biodiversity flourishes alongside human life three laureates are selected for their influential conservation work with the 2024 edition specifically honouring contributions to the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework This framework includes four major goals: protecting and restoring nature and investing in collaborative efforts for nature’s future.  Winners receive funding to further their work and are invited to share their insights at major biodiversity events like those organised by the United Nations the Midori Prize is more than an award—it’s a driver of global dialogue and action for a greener we are immensely proud to celebrate Vera Voronova the visionary Executive Director of the Association for the Conservation of Biodiversity of Kazakhstan (ACBK)—our dedicated BirdLife Partner in Kazakhstan—as a 2024 Midori Prize laureate ACBK has become a powerhouse of conservation and restoration in Kazakhstan and Central Asia embodying BirdLife’s mission to protect and restore ecosystems for the benefit of both wildlife and communities.  Vera has pioneered transformative projects that address urgent conservation needs particularly the recovery of endangered mammal populations and the preservation of vital migration corridors across the steppes Her work in safeguarding the Central Asian Flyway directly contributes to BirdLife’s global goals and represents a shared commitment to ensuring the safe passage and habitat protection of these remarkable species she collaborates closely with governments and international partners demonstrating how strategic conservation initiatives can bring lasting improvements to rural livelihoods and set the groundwork for sustainable futures across borders.  Watch Martin’s full interview with Vera here: https://vimeo.com/1026838511 In recognition of this exceptional achievement Honorary President of BirdLife International Reflecting on Vera’s accomplishments and their global significance Executive Director of the Association for the Conservation of Biodiversity of Kazakhstan (ACBK) has won the Midori Prize for Biodiversity 2024 This is a highly prestigious award that celebrates great achievements in conservation Kazakhstan and the global BirdLife community.  It is a measure of Vera’s drive and capabilities that only six years after she was voted onto the board of ACBK as a student member She cares for nature with such deep feelings that she carries everyone with her But these feelings do not cloud her professional judgement—rather This is because she is also a hard-headed evidence-driven scientist marrying facts and feelings with unswerving authority.  for the past six years she has committed her time to developing BirdLife’s wider impact through her service on the Global Council and Europe and Central Asia Committee helping to support our ambitions to protect the four great flyways of the world for migratory birds – especially the Central Asian Flyway As Executive Director of ACBK she quickly learnt the practicalities of designing and delivering major conservation projects such as the brilliant Altyn Dala initiative which focuses on the conservation of Kazakhstan’s steppe ecosystems and their flagship species She also rapidly developed her managerial skills making ACBK the most respected conservation NGO in Kazakhstan and helping her government develop a national biodiversity strategy to meet its global environmental obligations.    For Vera to have been recognised by this award is simply wonderful and absolutely right I offer her my heartfelt congratulations and my ardent thanks!” During the 1st Meeting of ASEAN-Japan Ministers of Agriculture and Forestry a cooperation plan with ASEAN intended to create a productive and sustainable food system paired with Japan’s looming problem of an aging population highlights the shortages in skilled human resources                MIDORI is a significant step in human security efforts in SEA (Southeast Asia), considering the region’s high dependence on agriculture. In 2020, agriculture constituted around 11% of ASEAN’s GDP, with some countries, like Cambodia and Myanmar, relying on it for over 20% of their GDP (Sundram, 2023) and push research and development activities towards agricultural sustainability and productivity MIDORI’s ambition for bountiful dining tables remains crippled in some aspects: doubt pertains to whether it is truly what ASEAN needs Assessing Drawbacks in the MIDORI Cooperation Plan It is undetermined whether MIDORI represents change in Japan’s foreign policy orientation on food security or whether it is simply a continuation of previous programs. Japan’s MAFF (2023) declares that MIDORI was formulated “to realize increases in both productivity and sustainability through innovation.” However the same document also describes it as a continuation of the AIFS (ASEAN Integrated Food Security) Framework and SPA-FS (Strategic Plan of Action on Food Security) Despite calling itself a “cooperation plan,” MIDORI’s projects are executed in only the partner country while receiving funding from Japan’s government or private companies MIDORI may unknowingly exacerbate the “donor-recipient” mindset and impede the nurturing of a reciprocal Japan-ASEAN relationship Even out of 22 future programs mentioned in the document’s Second Annex only 3 fall under the human resource development category Calling MIDORI an “innovation” thus narrows down the meaning of the word to technological improvements alone reflecting Japan’s bias as a highly industrialized nation it is doubted whether MIDORI’s technology-based approaches are effective at all If there is no common ground regarding its objective, and human security is not placed as a priority issue, then is MIDORI truly what ASEAN needs? The GHI (Growth Hunger Index) scores in countries like Indonesia, Laos, and Myanmar actually fell significantly until 2016, when they started stagnating (GHI, 2024) it can be inferred that SEA exhibits an overall low level of hunger and perhaps the true problems are the massive disparities between ASEAN member states and stagnation of progress in food security efforts These all stem from one major problem: a lack of consolidated identity regarding food security (and human security on the larger scale) Does Food Security Mean Anything to Japan and ASEAN at All food security is not mentioned in the six main priority areas of the ASEAN SOMRDPE (Senior Officials Meeting on Rural Development and Poverty Eradication) Rethinking ASEAN Identity in the Food Security Context An over-emphasis on “smart agriculture” and an absence of distinct innovation in comparison to previous programs reveal a general lack of common understanding about the very nature of food security and human security before digital technologies are implemented a consolidated understanding of ASEAN identity is required so that food security partnerships allow Japan and ASEAN to “think regionally and act locally.” The lack of a common ground between Japan and ASEAN regarding the nature of food security can be solved by tracing back to the constructivist notion of ASEAN identity Food security should rely not only on high-tech devices but also on a sense of awareness and collective agreement on the significance of food security the first step towards a more reciprocal Japan-ASEAN food security partnership is theoretical: a critical study of human security Reflecting on the lack of consensus regarding MIDORI Japan-ASEAN partnerships need to rethink the notions and approaches about human security itself The reason for this is that even though it requires specific and locally tailored approaches food security should be seen as part of a larger human welfare issue Identity-building efforts in this context may be a subject of debate because it involves Japan can be formed and renewed as responses to external actors common goals and fears between its member states may become more apparent the presence of an “Other” strengthens the “we feeling.” Involving Japan in discussions about food security as an equal dialogue partner and supporter of flagship programs as well as increasing the frequency of Japan-ASEAN forums may make it clearer for ASEAN member states what they want and do not want from Japan Japan’s previous similar experiences—such as its decision to release its WTO rice stocks to thwart global rice prices after the 2008 financial crisis—may provide guidance on how to develop ASEAN policies more grassroots communities should be involved This is especially true in the human security context because human welfare issues are typically treated as domestic issues that require no external intervention An example of this is the JCIE (Japanese Center for Intellectual Exchange) MD does not stand behind any specific agenda and arguments to the light and see what remains valid and sound PRIVACY POLICY | PRIVACY SETTINGS | | ADVERTISE | ACCESSIBILITY Richard Strauss wrote music that described things – people stories – from Till Eulenspiegel the merry prankster to Salome the seductive dancer to the awesome sunrise of Also Spake Zarathrustra And right outside the windows of his villa in Garmisch-Partenkirchen (pictured above) the composer could take in a view of one of the most magnificent vistas in the world Strauss took a number of swings at creating the music to match the majesty of the mountains and finally got what he wished in 1915 in An Alpine Symphony It’s a big and atmospheric piece of music that calls for an augmented orchestra and Louisville Orchestra music director Teddy Abrams has added a number of players and special instruments for concerts Friday and Saturday in Whitney Hall a “thundersheet” and a wind machine to describe one 13-hour day up an Alpine mountain and back down again touring soloist Midori performs the Sibelius violin concerto “Strauss had been contemplating an Alpine piece for a long time and after the death of his friend Gustav Mahler (in 1911) he found the motivation to finish it,” says Louisville Orchestra principal horn Jon Gustely who has performed the Alpine Symphony previously with St Louis Symphony and Mexico City Philharmonic On stage for this weekend’s concerts Gustely will be joined by the Louisville Orchestra’s regular horn section with the additional hornists offstage with the Wagner tubas The offstage players will be stationed in the balconies and in the hallways alongside the seating area The effect could be kind of like surround sound in the high mountain range But it isn’t simply to make the sound louder it’s to create an instrumentation that encompasses more voices for more musical storytelling “I love the chorale theme at the beginning It starts very softly as sort of a chorale of low brass and low winds developing a lot of very athletic passages.” is a very athletic thing to do – sharing the going with goats and traversing steep passages “It’s supposed to represent nature in the Alps,” Gustely explains That’s with all the horn calls and hunting calls the last five minutes the chorale comes back and it’s a very slow and drawn-out sort of farewell If French horns take a starring role in An Alpine Symphony Richard Strauss (no relation to the Strauss waltz family of Vienna) lifted the horn to the front of his music taking advantage of the addition of valves to the ancient instrument That opened the horn to intricate melodies regarded as Europe’s finest French horn player The son grew up in a late nineteenth century musical world of Romantic composers centered in a small region around the Alps: Brahms and Mahler in Vienna married to the tempestuous German soprano Pauline de Ahna (Although the elder Strauss detested Wagner’s music – and didn’t mind saying so!) So, just a note on the Wagner tubas The Louisville Orchestra has borrowed eight of them from the Cincinnati Symphony in that they’re held in front of the player But Wagner invented them for French horn players with the valves placed for left-handed fingering They’re specifically scored in Wagner’s “Ring” cycle of operas (Something for the Valkeries to ride above?) the horns would be heard across a great gorge Here's LO musician Scott Leger playing an excerpt of a Bruckner symphony with Wagner tubas: All that’s after intermission. The concert opening belongs to the international touring star Midori playing Jean Sibelius’ Concerto for Violin and Orchestra The Japanese-born American performs under just her first name and has earned an elite musical rank as a violinist and humanitarian Midori’s appearance with the Louisville Orchestra comes amid a winter tour that includes concerts in Boston She’s performing the Sibelius concerto she’s playing in Louisville on a tour in Spain Midori is also helping create “Hope concerts” in Japan for Noto Peninsula earthquake victims with pianist Mao Fujita and an event with young string players in Nepal Her recording project for 2025 is works by Robert Schumann Midori’s instrument is the 1734 Guarneri del Gesu Jean Sibelius isn’t just Finland’s most famous composer he’s a hero in that nation – and the composer of the stirring anthem Finlandia His symphonies are probably most familiar to audiences but smaller-size works are always popping up on concert programs and radio He comes along as one of the final Romantic composers writing from the 19th Century into the 20th Sibelius totally ignored the atonal stuff of the period strange constructions and slashing assaults on the sensibilities of audiences a northern austereness that listeners will recognize distinguishing Sibelius from his Romantic siblings in Bavaria and Austria Correction: an earlier version of this story stated that this was Midori's first appearance in Louisville Louisville Public Media depends on donations from members – generous people like you – for the majority of our funding You can help make the next story possible with a donation of $10 or $20 We'll put your gift to work providing news and music for our diverse community (Photo by Midori Tsukagoshi/Shinko Music/Getty Images)Midori Tsukagoshi/Shinko Music/Getty Images Apr 30, 2025 8:26 AM EDTIn 1996, the Metallica album titled Load had 14 tracks in total we're getting 245 new unreleased Metallica songs this version of Load is the mega-load of Metallica rarities.  To be clear, the vast majority of the new tracks are unreleased demos and alternate versions of the songs from the original album. However, the new set will also include a full version of the famous track "The Outlaw Torn," according to Pitchfork.  the new Load box set will consist of the following: It is unclear at this time if the new outtakes and rarities will be available streaming on Spotify or other music services If you're a serious Metallica fan or know someone who is this will clearly be a fantastic gift.  The set will be available for purchase on Metallica's website, and a price has not yet been revealed Metallica is currently on tour and will be playing shows in the US throughout the summer He's written three critically acclaimed books on pop culture the making of Star Trek, and the history of Dune. He owns more James Bond novels and Sherlock Holmes books than is reasonable.  words: Picture this: The year is 1978 and “Stayin’ Alive” is blasting from the speakers at New York City’s hottest nightclub, Studio 54 You somehow gain access to the exclusive discotheque and after sweating with your fellow clubbers for a few songs The bartender thrusts a Hulk green cocktail into your hands and you take a sip allowing the melon-flavored concoction to wash over your taste buds “A Japanese Gin & Tonic,” they respond hands already busy prepping the next drink Made with one part Midori and one part sour mix the Midori Sour in its original form lacked balance borderline cloying flavors stealing the show the cocktail — and the fruity liqueur — was something bartenders were eager to move away from by the time the cocktail renaissance kicked off in the early aughts with a reformulation that cut the amount of artificial flavorings by 20 percent and introduced natural ingredients like Japanese Yubari and muskmelons the Midori Sour was hot once more — only these modern versions were unlike anything the latter half of the 20th century saw shaken up with ingredients like citrus cordials bartenders are eager to demonstrate that Midori is more than just a one-trick pony The liqueur has found its way into everything from a riff on the Alaska served at the buzzy NYC hotspot Coqodaq to herbaceous sippers developed by the team at Boston’s Temple Records And with continued interest in Japanese culture and a certain slime-green pop culture reference still gripping the cultural zeitgeist American fascination with Japan is nothing new. The nation’s cuisine has long been adored by U.S. diners, Japanese video games are played in households nationwide, and each year, a growing number of U.S. residents board 14-plus-hour flights to visit the island country Americans have demonstrated a particular interest in one aspect of Japanese culture that was previously relatively overlooked: alcohol has received as much attention stateside as Japanese whisky a style characterized by its delicate flavor profile and refined texture “I think with how much people have gotten into Japanese spirits, they understand the quality aspect of the craft and how much care goes into almost everything created in the country,” explains Meaghan Dorman, bar director of NYC’s Raines Law Room, which currently offers a cocktail made with mezcal “I think this made people look at Midori again but this time in relation to the quality of shochu and all these whiskies that weren’t really a thing in the States before the craft cocktail movement.” “As craft cocktails push the boundaries of what bars can do bartenders have been able to use Midori in unprecedented ways and instead used with a little more intention.” As Midori undergoes its second rediscovery in recent memory bartenders are using the liqueur in supporting roles rather than placing it front and center but trust that your cocktail wouldn’t taste the same without it vegetal agave and fire-roasted spice to provide the base for a cocktail Dorman compares to a Mezcal Margarita Further bolstered by falernum and given a tropical zap via lime juice and dehydrated pineapple the cocktail is a medley of powerful ingredients that allow Midori to shine without dominating “It’s a really unique cocktail and it’s one of our top five sellers,” she says “And it’s fun to introduce Midori to people who haven’t tried it before or even reintroduce it to people who have.” if there’s one thing that certainly isn’t hurting the Quetzal’s popularity In the thick of the craft cocktail movement many likely would have high-tailed it right out of the bar and nostalgia for bright-colored cocktails is back in full force as drinkers seek concoctions that perfectly skirt the line between thoughtful and fun With the knowledge and quality products provided by the cocktail renaissance bartenders have all the right tools to achieve both “It’s exciting to discover an ingredient that has been proven tried and true for years and experience why these products have lasted the test of time What was once a liqueur used to wow guests with its color (while getting them drunk fast) has transformed into a tool that can imbue flavor “As craft cocktails push the boundaries of what bars can do, bartenders have been able to use Midori in unprecedented ways,” says Leonardo Tedesco, bar manager of Boston’s Somaek and Temple Records Midori acts as the sweetening agent in the Off Minor a gin-based cocktail that fuses flavors like garden basil Midori provides just a hint of sweetness and roundness while allowing the herbaceous notes and zippy citrus to shine “The color really helps bring our cocktail to life and it’s a great boost for our socials,” Tedesco says Tedesco argues that a large factor in Midori’s current resurgence is bartenders’ desire to rediscover ingredients that have been around for decades The fascination with turning the old into the new is ever-present “Modern bartenders are challenged with the task of reinventing what has previously been done with Midori,” he explains “Americans have been using it since the disco era it’s a quintessential part of American bar culture [and] with the continued growth of Japanese-inspired bars it would not be wise to overlook the liqueur.” “As long as we treat the intention of flavor and color aesthetic with respect Midori will continue to be a darling ingredient among modern bartenders.” It’s a sentiment shared by the team at Coqodaq with bar manager Matt Chavez explaining that there’s an inclination among mixologists to tinker with spirits that have been in circulation “There’s a certain fascination with bottles that have quietly existed behind most backbars for decades — unnoticed by many but cherished by those who enjoy cocktail culture,” he says Midori stars alongside Boatyard gin, Chopin vodka, Green Chartreuse, and Lustau Blanc vermouth at the Korean fried chicken outpost in a luminous riff on the Alaska. Chavez and Sondre Kasin, the director of bars at Gracious Hospitality Management wanted to create a green version of the classic cocktail so they turned to the melon liqueur a medley of bitter botanicals drives the cocktail with a subtle melon twist arriving on the finish the drink is the perfect storm of nostalgia “We knew the color would amp up in an almost neon glow We also thought the color and nostalgia aspect would benefit from the color juxtaposition of a bright red atomic cherry,” Chavez explains of the recipe and development process One thing these drinks share: spotlighting Midori While the spirit’s color may be the most important factor for these at-home mixologists most have incorporated the same mindfulness as the pros deploying the liqueur in small quantities to allow other flavors to shine And if Midori is to cement itself in the current cocktail canon Midori will continue to be a darling ingredient among modern bartenders,” Chavez says We’re witnessing a new generation exposed to a new ingredient Visionary, United Nations peace ambassador, activist and educator, violinist Midori is a superb artist who passionately explores and expands the connection between music and the human experience.  of which two had been announced at the time of writing one in Pamplona and the other in Bilbao (see calendar below) who moved to the United States as a child and made a prodigious career for herself has always enchanted audiences with her extraordinary playing as well as the brilliant and clean intonation of her 1734 Guarneri violin Midori was kind enough to grant Mundoclasico.com an interview and these are her exclusive answers: Midori: I have always enjoyed going to Spain My first trip was when I was still in my teenage years and I went there for the first time on a tour with the London Symphony to Bilbao and Barcelona I really loved the feeling and the atmosphere - I think it also has a lot to do with the people and the sunlight I remember the wonderful new and old theaters, of course. On this tour, I’ll be playing in the famous Palau de la Música in Barcelona. And I get to play in Bilbao later in May a duo recital with the pianist Özgür Aydin where the hall is absolutely fantastic.  I also have a very distinct memory of playing at the Granada Festival which is just such a beautiful memorable and magical experience in a very unique environment I am looking forward to be playing next year in Majorca Madrid and Barcelona – whether it is while working with Spanish orchestras or giving recitals or touring Spain with visiting orchestras There is so much that I can look forward to be doing in Spain The next project in Spain will be in February playing the Sibelius’ Concerto with the Orchestra de la Suisse Romande on tour The Sibelius’ Concerto is very beautiful and dramatic it evokes rather severe moods for both the players and the listeners.  it has also exciting and energetic elements This unique piece has the capacity to stir one’s imagination and create a special listening experience as it evokes different images or experiences for the individual listeners I will be working with the Orchestra de la Suisse Romande (OSR) for the first time and after the sendoff concert in the orchestra’s hometown Geneva I am really looking forward to this tour and I am sure that working with the OSR will be very rewarding and interesting There are many different themes that might strike my interest or my inspiration - many different things can inspire me to put together a program In my next set of recitals in the US and in Spain I happened to saw immediately a connection between Garcia Lorca’s poems and Poulenc’s Violin Sonata it's unknown whether these two men ever met but they have many things in common: They use similar themes and approach some issues in a similar way These two men on their own are an artistic inspiration and to combine their work just naturally came to me Like it was a series of accidents and that's basically how life is It's a series of accidents that you then have to make meaning out I have known the poems by Garcia Lorca for a very long time Then I fell upon the Casida del llanto while I was coincidentally thinking about how I might like to play the Poulenc Violin Sonata in my next set of recitals And so the program just grew from there into a very soul-stirring one I'm very much looking forward to working on it and then presenting it next (this) year I went to Nepal in December with the International Community Engagement project which is overseen by one of my nonprofit organizations called Music Sharing I went there with three selected young musicians who auditioned and were chosen from an audition and interview process we were a string quartet visiting different venues and social institutions in Nepal We partnered with local organizations that work with the marginalized population or on different social issues but we also engaged ourselves in cultural exchange so that we were not just simply there to play for them We exchanged ideas with the local musicians and discussed how we can preserve our art form how we can bring music to the young people and to other groups of people who may otherwise not have access to music The trip was about 12 days plus a rehearsal period will follow in Europe this year The current world situation extremely worrisome many innocent lives being taken and people who are left behind as victims of all the violence heinous crimes being committed and injustice But there is also a lot of injustice left that is covered and that goes unnoticed from the public eye There are many issues that we face in the world today and I think to say that one is afraid of what's going on is probably an understatement I don't think that the title of the position you hold matters so much We all need to be working together to better the world I think I'm a very optimistic person and also a very practical person but I have a deep respect for history and for which steps were taken in society to arrive where we are right now Canary Islands International Music Festival International Music Festival of the Canary Islands Essaying the pop culture that matters since 1999 Celebrated Berlin-based composers Brueder Selke and Midori Hirano form a trio for this spellbinding new collaborative release it’s refreshing to witness the ideal balance between the sometimes lofty and calculated nature of process-based composition and the successful delivery of eight stark Brueder Selke are a duo of two brothers, Sebastian and Daniel Selke, who are both credited with electronics and cello (Sebastian) and piano (Daniel). They’ve joined forces with composer, pianist, and synthesizer player Midori Hirano. While all three musicians share a classical background, they’re also deeply devoted to modern electronic music The process for creating Split Scale is simple direct execution but imbued with a dark sense of mystery “Scale A” opens the album with Hirano’s cyclical piano arpeggios, followed by the brothers adding subtle bits of color, seeming at once comforting and foreboding. There is a bit of ambient minimalism at work as the piano provides a spine of gentle repetition The piano on “Scale B” tends to be more free-form as the electronics rise to the surface and subtle insect-like effects bring a more organic sonic result Midori Hirano has achieved great success as a composer for film and television and there is indeed a cinematic aura surrounding these compositions – the haunting synths and strings that envelop “Scale C” are palpable Recorded between 2021 and 2023 in Berlin and nearby Potsdam the piecing together of these eight tracks over a relatively long period could each track exploring the different hues of its tonal center but it allows the three musicians to find sonic gold within their established parameters “Scale F” is one of the more hopeful-sounding tracks rising above some of the bleakness that preceded it with a gentle progression soaring to powerfully emotional heights “Scale G” rides along a gentle bed of sustained synths and strings that bring to mind vibrant film scores Closing out the record by returning to the first track’s scale note “Scale AA” incorporates more deliberate electronic sounds that the three musicians are known for but rarely revisit on this record The gentle pulse of the synthesizer brings modernity to the forefront but the result maintains a powerful classical spirit Brueder Selke explained that the record is a way of returning to their roots “Our choice of tones was relatively simple We wanted to take this unique opportunity with Midori to start from zero and to do it together.” It’s a unique set of circumstances and concepts that brought these three musicians together and the result is nothing short of exhilarating smothered smashburgers and a new jazz brunch Restaurants come and go in our area all the time Recently opened eateries are now serving house-made ice cream dreamy matcha drinks and smothered smashburgers check out what’s new at some old favorites along with new eateries coming soon to a neighborhood near you A post shared by Emily Tran (@happy_dmv) The shop that specializes in ice cream and taiyakis (a fish-shaped waffle) now has a second brick-and-mortar location after getting its start at pop-up markets it opened a kiosk on the third-floor food court level at Tysons Corner Center following on the heels of a Dunn Loring storefront (2672 Avenir Place) that opened about a year ago The taiyaki menu includes a single waffle ($5.50) or pack of three or six ($12 and $20 with flavors such as ube or matcha custard Homemade soft-serve choices include Cookie Butter Filipino shave ice (halo halo) is available Fridays-Sundays Sip on ceremonial matcha tea shipped directly from Kyoto at this Little City cafe blending Japanese and French influences Specialty drinks incorporating that special import include the creamy Ube Matcha and Maple & Sea Salt Matcha with maple syrup Other beverages include sparkling options such as yuzu and mango A post shared by Jon’s Joint 🍔 (@jonsjoint) The menu at this locally-owned Buckingham burger joint is simple and the grass-fed meat is sourced from a local farm double or triple smashburger with toppers like cheese Non-beef-eaters can get a chicken sandwich This Dubai-based coffee shop has opened its first NoVA outpost in Bailey’s Crossroads Stave off winter’s chill by sipping on a Hot Spanish Latte a beverage made with pistachio-infused milk switch to cold coolers such as a Dates Latte or Picnova Ice a frozen tropical dessert with fresh pineapple chunks and ice cream or sorbet Raising and Educating Our Children During Uncertain Times the new panda residents at the National Zoo Astro will offer treats filled with black cherry jam glazed with cream cheese and topped with Oreo panda faces for $5.25 each Starting Jan. 12, Chef David Guas‘ new restaurant in McLean is launching a Jazz Brunch with live music by the Brock, Key, and Walby Trio on Sundays from 10:30 am.-1:30 p.m (Sunday brunch is served from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.) The menu features Grits & Grillades (18-hour braised brisket white corn grits and creole tomato gravy) and B&G (buttermilk biscuits with crawfish gravy The restaurant tucked inside Tysons Corner Center is doing its part to help diners meet their New Year’s resolutions by offering new winter menu items that are all 595 calories or less vegan Black Lentil Bolognese and tiny bites of decadence in the form of Peanut Butter Chocolate Minis (chocolate cake roasted peanuts and a dark chocolate peanut butter cup) the glass bar and restaurant has transformed into an Apres Ski pop-up for the winter with a limited-time menu and themed decor inspired by European mountain retreats and the chic winter terraces of London Set the kids loose on a pop-up ice rink while you snack on baked brie or a tuna poke bowl and sip on cocktails such as the Spicy Margarita or zero-proof options such as a Seedlip Paloma or Mojito The self-described “Jew-ish” deli will continue its expansion from D.C. into Virginia by opening a kiosk in National Landing’s Water Park soon sides such as latkes and Yuca Cheese Bread and signature bagel sandwiches such as the Pastrami Sun City (pastrami Coming on the heels of its Falls Church City location which opened in November in the former Pizzeria Orso space the newest outpost in Crystal City will be the fourth location for the restaurant specializing in Dolan and Uyghur foods Appetizers include vegetarian spring rolls and chuchura soup (featuring mini dumplings with minced beef Look forward to chef’s specialties including Uyghur pilaf with lamb shank and kawa manta (vegetarian steamed buns stuffed with pumpkin “with 300 selections of smaller production with roughly 70% from Old World producers and 30% from the New World Most bottles will be priced between $15 and $30.” // 1900 Crystal Drive Neighborhood Restaurant Group is replacing its Red Apron butcher shop in Mosaic with a ‘cue joint HiFi currently has a pop-up at Del Rey’s Evening Star Cafe (2000 Mount Vernon Ave. Chef Nathan Landa’s menu includes smoked-meat platters and burgers or the Sharp-Dressed Man with chopped brisket and queso The owners of Pupatella (a Best of Arlington 2024 winner that’s received props as one of the best pizzerias in the world) are planning a spring opening for a new French concept in The Little City that will feature a variety of crepes this forthcoming bird’s-eye bar in the former Arlington Rooftop Bar & Grill space promises “stunning 360-degree views of Arlington,” along with craft cocktails and entrees such as Chili Crunch Salmon (grilled salmon with crispy chili oil crab-fried cauliflower rice and spicy cucumber salad) Soon to inhabit the former Pizza Roma storefront in Ballston this pasta purveyor will open this spring across from the Metro station (A location opened at Tysons Galleria in November 2024) Customers will be able to build their own pasta dishes choosing from traditional noodle shapes like penne The Mosaic District butcher shop closed last month after 11 years on Glass Alley, but will reopen next month as HiFi Tex-Mex BBQ The Middle Eastern restaurant and hookah lounge has closed after about one year Become a digital partner ... About UsContact UsSubscribeAdvertiseWrite for Us Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights Jane Levere is a New York-based freelance writer covering the arts 08:14am EDTShareSaveComment@font-face{font-family: "Schnyder"; src: url("https://i.forbesimg.com/assets/fonts/schnyders/schnyders-bold-webfont.woff2") format("woff2") url("https://i.forbesimg.com/assets/fonts/schnyders/schnyders/schnyders-bold-webfont.woff") format("woff"); font-weight: 700; font-style: normal;} @font-face{font-family: "Merriweather"; src: url("https://i.forbesimg.com/assets/fonts/merriweather/merriweather-bold-webfont.woff2") format("woff2") url("https://i.forbesimg.com/assets/fonts/merriweather/merriweather-bold-webfont.woff") format("woff"); font-weight: 700; font-style: normal;} @font-face{font-family: "Euclid"; src: url("https://i.forbesimg.com/assets/fonts/euclidcircularb/euclidcircularb-bold-webfont.woff2") format("woff2") url("https://i.forbesimg.com/assets/fonts/euclidcircularb/euclidcircularb-bold-webfont.woff") format("woff"); 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one of his students said Brahms had discarded three previous attempts at the form She is also performing Poulenc’s Sonata for Violin and Piano which she said “was written during World War II while Poulenc was living in occupied France He expressed his political opinions through music dedicating this sonata to Federico García Lorca who was killed by Fascists at the outbreak of the Spanish Civil War in 1936 Dramatic expressions of grief and anger over Lorca’s murder mark the first and third movements The second movement includes a quotation from Lorca: ‘The guitar makes dreams weep,’ depicted through pizzicatos in the violin.” 2025 was the 150th anniversary of Maurice Ravel’s birth; to commemorate this Midori’s recital program also includes two works by him the powerful prayer in the Jewish liturgy associated with mourning the dead The piece invokes the singing style of a synagogue’s cantor who often sings many notes over a single syllable virtuosic showcase for the violinist in the style of a Hungarian rhapsody The program also includes by Robert Schumann's Stücke im Volkston for violin and piano Midori’s remaining concerts on her tour this month will take place March 9 at 92NY in New York; March 11 at the Herbst Theatre in San Francisco; and March 13 at the Los Angeles Philharmonic She is performing at them with Turkish-American pianist Ozgur Aydin at them Midori made her debut with the New York Philharmonic at age 11 She has since performed with many of the world’s most prestigious orchestras and collaborated with world-renowned musicians such as Leonard Bernstein and Yo-Yo Ma Seattle Symphony and other American orchestras she will perform with the Vienna Philharmonic under Andris Nelsons in Vienna and in Asia and with both the Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin (DSO) and German National Youth Orchestra in two appearances at Berlin Philharmonic Hall She also has founded several non-profit organizations to bring music to children and underserved communities In recognition of her work as an artist and humanitarian she serves as a United Nations Messenger of Peace has recorded solo piano works by Beethoven he enjoys recurrent collaborations with violinists Kolja Blacher and Midori cellist Clemens Hagen and members of the Berlin Philharmonic Thanks for visiting Mika was a way for Grey's Anatomy to explore the financial pressure on upcoming medical residents and showcase why so many young doctors are burning out of the field.  Yasuda did not burn out, at least not permanently. She fought for change in how Grey Sloan treats their interns and became one of the rising stars in this batch of young doctors. Then earlier in Season 21, Mika learned that her baby sister Chloe had contracted cancer Mika had her sister fly out to Seattle to be evaluated by Dr Mika was sitting vigil with Chloe after a bout of chemo in the fall penultimate episode when she was called in to help Jules (Adelaide Kane) manage the cardio wing while Winston (Anthony Hill) was away doing the first half of a transplant for a patient.  Related: Everything to Know About Grey's Anatomy Season 21 Her work helping to save Winston's patients earned her the opportunity to scrub in on the second half of the transplant Mika had been up for over 24 hours and was ready to take Chloe home and get some proper sleep Mika fell asleep at the wheel while driving Chloe back to the house and crashed the van died from complications after she and Mika were rushed to the hospital Mika was in a medically induced coma and woke up to find that her baby sister had died after an accident she caused.  The fall finale picked up six weeks after Yasuda found out about her sister's death. She returned to work at Grey Sloan amidst a massive heatwave, determined to let work distract her from the guilt and overwhelming grief Yasuda quickly found that being in the hospital where her sister died was just submitting herself to unending torture Even a sensual hookup with Jules in the on-call room couldn't fully distract her from the thoughts of her sister.  Related: Jake Borelli Talks Crafting His 'Totally Fitting' Exit From Grey's Anatomy After a full freakout in the emergency room when a heat-stroke victim was coding Bailey (Chandra Wilson) demanded that Yasuda take more time off Yasuda had come to the disappointing realization that she couldn't work at Grey Sloan anymore She'd never be able to heal and move on from what happened when the reminders of her sister's death were constantly shoved in her face Bailey was optimistic that Yasuda would eventually find her way back to medicine even if she didn't make her way back to Grey Sloan Memorial.  The two of them were just at the start of what could have been a hall-of-fame Grey's Anatomy relationship when Chloe's diagnosis came through and it doesn't seem like she'll ever come back at least not in a timeframe that would make sense for her and Jules to be together.  The fragile resident program is now down one more promising student We'll have to see how the rest finish their intern year when Grey's Anatomy Season 21 returns in March.  The previous episodes of Grey's Anatomy Season 21 are now available to stream on Hulu. The complete first 20 seasons of Grey's Anatomy are also on Hulu and Netflix.  Next, Grey's Anatomy's Jake Borelli Lists His Favorite Levi Schmitt Moments Broadway Off-Broadway Off-Off Broadway Cabaret Dance Opera Classical Music Nashville Minneapolis / St. Paul Connecticut Atlanta Chicago Los Angeles WEST END UK Regional Canada Australia / New Zealand Europe Asia Latin America Africa / Middle East TV/Movies Music Obie and Drama Desk award winner Midori Francis has joined the cast of William Inge’s Bus Stop directed by Jack Cummings III Off-Broadway Learn more about the production and see how to purchase tickets and Transport Group revealed the cast and dates for their co-production of William Inge’s Bus Stop and exclusive discounts on tickets to your favorite shows © 2025 - Copyright Wisdom Digital Media, all rights reserved. Privacy Policy Please activate JavaScript function on your browser American violinist Nathan Meltzer won the 2023 Concert Artist Guild Competition He’s the youngest ever to win the Windsor Festival Competition He is also the protégé of Midori’s Partners in Performance program a nonprofit that promotes classical music in rural areas of the country Meltzer will be performing in Hawaiʻi this week in a program that includes sonatas by Brahms and Faure Evening Concert host Craig DeSilva spoke to Meltzer from his home in New York City about his Hawaiʻi debut