Top 10 John Coltrane Tracks
Taking on the Herculean task of narrowing the work of John Coltrane to a Top 10 list
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Roasted Cauliflower
If you had told me 20 years ago that I would actually get excited about eating cauliflower, I would have been rather skeptical, but it’s now true, at least when cooked this way. This is great as a side dish or (especially with the optional raisins and walnuts) a light main course if served over rice.
Continue ReadingObstacles Against Discussing Child Sexual Abuse
What are the issues that make child sexual abuse such a difficult subject to openly discuss? This is an important topic, as an open conversation can profoundly impact children’s vulnerability to abuse.
Continue ReadingStuffed Mushrooms
This has become a go-to recipe when Tiana is home/visiting, and as shown in the picture, was specially requested to be made as an appetizer for Ariana’s wedding. If you have the ingredients (miso might require a trip to the health food store if you’re not a hippie like me, though if you make any…
Continue ReadingIn (non-homophobic) Defense of Marriage
On Labor Day weekend I got to have the profound joy of walking Ariana down the aisle as she married a wonderful guy. Meanwhile, 2012 has been a year of upheaval for loved ones unlike anything I’ve ever experienced – people moving great distances, major professional transitions, physical and mental health struggles (including a wave…
Continue ReadingTop 10 Favorite Alice Coltrane Tracks
Trying to encapsulate the diversity of Alice Coltrane into 10 (+1) tracks, while also paying tribute to the great musician/scholar Franya Berkman, Alice’s biographer and the person who introduced me to her brilliant music.
Continue ReadingTahini-Lemon Dressing
An all-time favorite salad dressing – vegan, yet rich, creamy and flavorful.
Continue ReadingTop 10 Favorite Rock Organ Performances
Here is a list of some of the great rock organ performances most deeply embedded in my consciousness.
Continue ReadingNurturing vs. Butt-Whoopin’ in Teaching
As a teacher I am always working to figure out where to frame up on the continuum between being nice and encouraging vs. “keepin’ it real” in a way that might come off as harsh to students. I discuss this in the context of music study, since that’s what I do, but I think that the principles apply in many (though admittedly not all) other areas.
Continue ReadingTop 10 Jazz Organ Tracks
Jimmy Smith, Larry Young, Brother Jack McDuff, Shirley Scott . . . and Don Pullen? Yep, just read on.
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