Thanks to my company, today, unexpectedly I have received another set of tickets for the BBC Symphony Orchestra on the 7th Aug (Friday).
This is the Prom Number 30 and it is called BBC Symphony Orchestra.
Several pieces which would be playing are the following:
1) 'Fountains of Rome'- Respighi's 2nd part of Roman's trilogy brings the listener on a dawn to dusk tour of Rome's renowned fountains
2) 'Helen Grime Virga'- a dramatic music portraying the electric atmosphere prior to a storm.
3) Oliver Knussen's Horn Concerto
4)'Jeu de cartes '- Stravinsky's ballet portrays a musical poker game in three deals, ending the music with a Joker pounced with a Royal Flush
5)'Islamey'- Orchestra Casella actuate moral excellence to the extremes through the Balakirev’s ‘oriental fantasy' keyboard piece
From the explanations of the pieces above, I gather this prom is going to be one of the deepest and filled with full emotions and expressions. This prom should be good.
I wish I could share these tickets and experiences with my two sisters, one of whom also loves classical music. You know what; I really thank God for the experience.
Monday, 27 July 2009
Saturday, 25 July 2009
Growth requires Change
"There is no growth without change; there is no change without fear or loss; and there is no loss without pain."
The quote above caught my attention as I was browsing a link a few days ago. It left me dumbfounded and kept me thinking for a while.
I have summarized the lessons learnt:
In order to grow, we need change. But change doesn't come easily or freely. Change requires fear and loss of some kind. With loss, there comes the pain where you need to let go of something which may be dear to you for instance your comfort zone, loved ones or the past. When you really let go freely of the old, then only you can fully savor the new.
I began to reflect on my life. Ironically, I am undergoing some change. I've changed my job recently. The job requires a steep learning curve with more responsibilities in a totally new business environment, norms and people. Challenging, stressful and demanding. This is change, which is no doubt painful at the beginning as strong abilities to adapt and learn quickly are required. Nonetheless, I strongly believe that the process of change per se will lead me to growth.
As one of my friend quoted to me; “NO PAIN, NO GAIN." I could not agree more.
I do appreciate my job very much, as well as the added responsibilities, because through the pain and fear, I will eventually learn to overcome all these weaknesses for a stronger and better me. I do embrace growth; I would certainly embrace change, regardless of the pain.
On second thoughts, is this really a pain after all? I reckon, once I've overcome these challenges, I would then be in my comfort zone (again). I may even enjoy and love what I am doing; hence there would be no more loss, fear and pain. So, there shouldn't be any fuss at all.
Personally I think growth is a positive thing. Change is one of the ingredients towards achieving growth. As for the loss, fear and pain, I reckon they are probably temporary. It's a matter of time and a positive mindset for one to let go any OLD experience to really enjoy the NEW (Growth). I know sometimes it is easier said than done. But really, everyone has to move on in life. One just got to be optimistic in the LIFE journey. Well, that's my two cents opinion. :)
The quote above caught my attention as I was browsing a link a few days ago. It left me dumbfounded and kept me thinking for a while.
I have summarized the lessons learnt:
In order to grow, we need change. But change doesn't come easily or freely. Change requires fear and loss of some kind. With loss, there comes the pain where you need to let go of something which may be dear to you for instance your comfort zone, loved ones or the past. When you really let go freely of the old, then only you can fully savor the new.
I began to reflect on my life. Ironically, I am undergoing some change. I've changed my job recently. The job requires a steep learning curve with more responsibilities in a totally new business environment, norms and people. Challenging, stressful and demanding. This is change, which is no doubt painful at the beginning as strong abilities to adapt and learn quickly are required. Nonetheless, I strongly believe that the process of change per se will lead me to growth.
As one of my friend quoted to me; “NO PAIN, NO GAIN." I could not agree more.
I do appreciate my job very much, as well as the added responsibilities, because through the pain and fear, I will eventually learn to overcome all these weaknesses for a stronger and better me. I do embrace growth; I would certainly embrace change, regardless of the pain.
On second thoughts, is this really a pain after all? I reckon, once I've overcome these challenges, I would then be in my comfort zone (again). I may even enjoy and love what I am doing; hence there would be no more loss, fear and pain. So, there shouldn't be any fuss at all.
Personally I think growth is a positive thing. Change is one of the ingredients towards achieving growth. As for the loss, fear and pain, I reckon they are probably temporary. It's a matter of time and a positive mindset for one to let go any OLD experience to really enjoy the NEW (Growth). I know sometimes it is easier said than done. But really, everyone has to move on in life. One just got to be optimistic in the LIFE journey. Well, that's my two cents opinion. :)
Sunday, 19 July 2009
BBC Proms in London
I count my blessings of receiving the three sets of tickets to the recent BBC Prom in London.
The events take place in the Royal Albert Hall, London. A pretty prestigious place, I would say with its grand build-in and a very artistic architecture.
We have the privilege to taste three different type of music on three different occasions.
18th July- Jazz
A living legend Stan Tracey, the Godfather of the British Jazz performed the biblical version of the Big Bang (Genesis) with his orchestra. One really has to be a fan to appreciate the "funkiness" of this former Ted Heath Orchestra member's music.
26th July-A Free Family Classical Concert
The event targets at young listeners which brings out the novel flavour of all types of classical music through the many renowned composers including Chopin, Elgar, Stravinsky, Elgar and Khachaturian. The 'colourful' music is thought to bring out the different set of music variations throughout the season. As this event was free, I recommended to some of my friends to book the tickets online. As far as I know, F & K managed to get some tickets, whilst KL missed the opportunity as the tickets sold out very quickly.
30th July- Hallé- Choral & Orchestra with an Italian blend
Sir Mark Elder along with Susan Garham and Sally Matthews in the choir lead would be expected to perform with full passion through the Berlioz dazzling overture 'Benvenuto Cellini', 'La mort de Cléopâtre' and Mendelssohn's Symphony No.2 in B flat major, 'Lobgesang'.
I certainly look forward to appreciating and enjoying these concerts.
The events take place in the Royal Albert Hall, London. A pretty prestigious place, I would say with its grand build-in and a very artistic architecture.
We have the privilege to taste three different type of music on three different occasions.
18th July- Jazz
A living legend Stan Tracey, the Godfather of the British Jazz performed the biblical version of the Big Bang (Genesis) with his orchestra. One really has to be a fan to appreciate the "funkiness" of this former Ted Heath Orchestra member's music.
26th July-A Free Family Classical Concert
The event targets at young listeners which brings out the novel flavour of all types of classical music through the many renowned composers including Chopin, Elgar, Stravinsky, Elgar and Khachaturian. The 'colourful' music is thought to bring out the different set of music variations throughout the season. As this event was free, I recommended to some of my friends to book the tickets online. As far as I know, F & K managed to get some tickets, whilst KL missed the opportunity as the tickets sold out very quickly.
30th July- Hallé- Choral & Orchestra with an Italian blend
Sir Mark Elder along with Susan Garham and Sally Matthews in the choir lead would be expected to perform with full passion through the Berlioz dazzling overture 'Benvenuto Cellini', 'La mort de Cléopâtre' and Mendelssohn's Symphony No.2 in B flat major, 'Lobgesang'.
I certainly look forward to appreciating and enjoying these concerts.
Tuesday, 7 July 2009
Tate Modern II
5th July 2009- Sunday
Being one of the Tate Locals, we were fortunate to be given free tickets to participate in the open day on the transformation of the Tate Modern II.
This visit was certainly not any normal visits. Armed with fluorescent jackets and hard security hats, we were given the privilege to explore the underground of the upcoming Tate Modern II. Instead of exploring the galleries or watching films, we toured the oil tanks. Yes, you didn't hear me wrong. We went to the OIL TANKS which were situated under the current Tate Modern. How irony!
The Tate Modern II would rise from the three underground empty, large oil tanks. We were given a short briefing about the place and eventually the freedom to roam, sing (and hear the echo of our voices), dance, touch, jump, smell and feel the atmosphere in the oil tanks. The place did pose as an abandon power station or refinery, with the chilly and eerie surroundings. Nonetheless, the spaces offered are enormous. The tour was really educational, rare and worthwhile. I felt really fortunate for being so close up with this upcoming renowned building which is planned to be completed in 2012, in time for the London Olympics. Well, the oil tanks would be the 'heart' of the Tate Modern II.
For record purposes, the visits to the oil tanks have suggested some strange responses. Amongst them are the ideas of converting the space to swimming pools and dance floors. Some even suggested films projections over the wall (I would add- perhaps with the home theatre effect?). Meanwhile one visitor suggested to retain the 'raw' experience on the previous power station operations. Perhaps I can add on idea of building a gym in there, considering the huge space and imagining the locals exercising in the building:). Well, it can be a source of income to Tate Modern II by charging a minimal fee to the gym members which could actually contribute to the maintenance of the building whilst servicing the locals/ professionals living and working around the area. I would also love to see free spaces for young artists and/or photographers to exhibit their works freely. It would also be interesting to have a space for young professional artists to perform in order to help promote talents to the audiences. I am an art lover, hence having such opportunities to uplift any artistic talents of both young and old in UK and around the world, would be great!
From the body of the building, this compactly designed architecture would have 11 levels which offers 60% more space for exhibition, performances, workshops and other activities. Interestingly, the new building reflects a combination of two geometrical shapes namely rectangles and triangles. Given such a contrasting blend of shapes, along with the planned landscapes, the Tate Modern II hopes to provide the genuine 'green space' for art lovers and the local communities. Also, strategically situated by the Thames River, Tate Modern II would be an ideal place for relaxation and learning. As if the Tate Modern II is not environmental friendly enough with the high profile landscapes, the building per se is designed to consume 54% less enery and 44% less carbon the current building regulations limits.
After visiting the undergaround oil tanks and considering the positive impact that Tate Modern II could bring, in my opinion, I do see great potential in this project.
By the way, we were also given free tickets to "Futurism" and the "Per Kirkeby" exhibitions which would normally cost patrons 20 quid for two separate tickets. We nevertheless visited and enjoyed the two art explorations. It was indeed a great day to close the week! For a moment, I felt locally 'Tate'.
NOTE:
1) Photos taken are only for personal usage and not for any commercial purposes.
2) Some of the information on the Tate Modern II are based on the author's observations, visits and reading through the "Modern Tate & You"- Bankside News & Views, Summer Edition 2009
Being one of the Tate Locals, we were fortunate to be given free tickets to participate in the open day on the transformation of the Tate Modern II.
This visit was certainly not any normal visits. Armed with fluorescent jackets and hard security hats, we were given the privilege to explore the underground of the upcoming Tate Modern II. Instead of exploring the galleries or watching films, we toured the oil tanks. Yes, you didn't hear me wrong. We went to the OIL TANKS which were situated under the current Tate Modern. How irony!
The Tate Modern II would rise from the three underground empty, large oil tanks. We were given a short briefing about the place and eventually the freedom to roam, sing (and hear the echo of our voices), dance, touch, jump, smell and feel the atmosphere in the oil tanks. The place did pose as an abandon power station or refinery, with the chilly and eerie surroundings. Nonetheless, the spaces offered are enormous. The tour was really educational, rare and worthwhile. I felt really fortunate for being so close up with this upcoming renowned building which is planned to be completed in 2012, in time for the London Olympics. Well, the oil tanks would be the 'heart' of the Tate Modern II.
For record purposes, the visits to the oil tanks have suggested some strange responses. Amongst them are the ideas of converting the space to swimming pools and dance floors. Some even suggested films projections over the wall (I would add- perhaps with the home theatre effect?). Meanwhile one visitor suggested to retain the 'raw' experience on the previous power station operations. Perhaps I can add on idea of building a gym in there, considering the huge space and imagining the locals exercising in the building:). Well, it can be a source of income to Tate Modern II by charging a minimal fee to the gym members which could actually contribute to the maintenance of the building whilst servicing the locals/ professionals living and working around the area. I would also love to see free spaces for young artists and/or photographers to exhibit their works freely. It would also be interesting to have a space for young professional artists to perform in order to help promote talents to the audiences. I am an art lover, hence having such opportunities to uplift any artistic talents of both young and old in UK and around the world, would be great!
From the body of the building, this compactly designed architecture would have 11 levels which offers 60% more space for exhibition, performances, workshops and other activities. Interestingly, the new building reflects a combination of two geometrical shapes namely rectangles and triangles. Given such a contrasting blend of shapes, along with the planned landscapes, the Tate Modern II hopes to provide the genuine 'green space' for art lovers and the local communities. Also, strategically situated by the Thames River, Tate Modern II would be an ideal place for relaxation and learning. As if the Tate Modern II is not environmental friendly enough with the high profile landscapes, the building per se is designed to consume 54% less enery and 44% less carbon the current building regulations limits.
After visiting the undergaround oil tanks and considering the positive impact that Tate Modern II could bring, in my opinion, I do see great potential in this project.
By the way, we were also given free tickets to "Futurism" and the "Per Kirkeby" exhibitions which would normally cost patrons 20 quid for two separate tickets. We nevertheless visited and enjoyed the two art explorations. It was indeed a great day to close the week! For a moment, I felt locally 'Tate'.
NOTE:
1) Photos taken are only for personal usage and not for any commercial purposes.
2) Some of the information on the Tate Modern II are based on the author's observations, visits and reading through the "Modern Tate & You"- Bankside News & Views, Summer Edition 2009
Saturday, 4 July 2009
Borough Market
Borough market is the oldest and one of the largest food markets in the world. Situated within a walking distance to where we live, the market was a worthwhile place for groceries shopping since they offer a wide varieties of not only local but also imported fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, olives, sweets and tea. These goods come from Italy, Spain, Turkey and as far as the Far East (China, Korea, Japan) and Africa.
Bustling and colourful, Borough market has lots to offer-not only the fresh food but also the history of the building per se. The most notable factor in the history of this market is the London Bridge, which was the only bridge connecting London and Southern England with continental Europe until the 18th century. It was during that period where traders travelled to London, and looked for lodging in Southwark. This eventually led to the incarnation of the Borough Market, where traders around the world trade for food, vegetables, fish, grains and cattle. [Source: http://www.boroughmarket.org.uk/index.php?pid=15]
The current buildings were designed in the 19th century (1851), and the entrance with the Art Deco design was added in the 20th century(1932).
Borough Market has become a stylish place for food shopping. This is not surprising as the market has been advertised through some of the leading films where the streets around the market were used as films sets. Some of the notable films are Bridget Jones's Diary (2001)and Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (2004). [Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Borough_Market]
As if Borough Market is not fashionable enough, this market is surrounded by some posh pubs and restaurants which makes the place even more popular to patronize. I like the place, not only for the fresh and large varieties of fruits and vegetables, but because the place has an inexplicable character and history.
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