classical

250 years ago today (or yesterday, depending on your source), Ludwig van Beethoven was born. Beethoven was, almost beyond argument, one of the greatest and most important musicians (he was a piano prodigy) and composers in Western culture. Some would argue even in the world. He is certainly...

Pianist (in both classical and jazz), composer, conductor Andre Previn has left the world at 89. Born in Germany as Prewin, his Jewish family fled first to Paris and then finally Los Angeles to escape the Nazis. Once in LA, he started his piano career in Hollywood. He moved easily among styles...