Aspen Peak - Niche Media - Aspen living at its peak
Issue link: http://digital.greengale.com/i/67357
photography by karl wolfgang Superlatives view from the top robert spano ASPEN MUSIC FESTIVAL AND SCHOOL'S NEW DIRECTOR, THE MAESTRO CONDUCTS AN ALL-AMERICAN REPERTORY. by ruth leon I f you didn't know that Robert Spano was the new music director of the Aspen Music Festival and School, you might think that this engaging man was a science professor at a major university, or perhaps its basket- ball coach. That is, until he starts talking about his new job and the town he will adopt as his summer home. Summer in Aspen is defined by AMFS's eight-week season. The festival has placed town at the forefront of the global classical music scene, featuring more than 300 events and more than 800 music students and professional musicians. This year's theme, "Made in America," will stage works inspired by "America's sights, sounds, and sensibilities." Highlights include performances by trumpeter Chris Botti, violinist Joshua Bell with bassist Edgar Meyer, opera star Nathan Gunn, and jazz vocalist Jane Monheit, among many others. "Aspen is a wonderfully vital place," says Spano, whose enthusiasm and commitment are infectious. "There's such a lot going on, so many new people to meet, so much to do. For me, the real draw is the students. They're so talented, such a joy to work with. I can't wait for this summer. Until the past 10 years, teaching was a big part of my life; in recent years I've done less and less. Now, again, I get to perpetuate a great history of talented musicians having the opportunity to become even better, to be transformed, to have the experience of making great music in a great setting. Who wouldn't want my job?" continued on page 58 aspenpeak-magazine.com 57 people, culture, style