I believe that singing is the key to long life, a good figure, a stable temperament, increased intelligence, new friends, super self-confidence, heightened sexual attractiveness and a better sense of humor. A recent long-term study conducted in Scandinavia sought to discover which activities related to a healthy and happy later life. Three stood out: camping, dancing and singing. (link to full article)

Interesting theory, but the man has obviously not heard me in the shower. I’d better stick to creating sounds with Eno’s very cool iPhone app, Bloom.

With the digital music explosion, the issues of copyright, authorship and ownership have never been so important. Tune in to hear a re-broadcast of Jim and Greg’s interview with legal expert Lawrence Lessig. Listen

Canadian violinist James Ehnes comes across as an easygoing, laid-back kind of guy. Originally from Brandon, Man., he has a matter-of-fact way of expressing himself - articulate, but unadorned with drama or artistic licence.

But if his spoken words aren’t as vivid as the notes he plays on his 1715 “Ex Marsick” Stradivarius, there’s weight and substance to his statements. And when he says he’s “upset and alarmed” about something, he’s not just striving for effect. He means it. [full article]

Orchestras are constantly exploring new technologies that can enhance the audience’s appreciation of their concerts, from multi-media concert experiences and digital program notes to new web experiences. Since February 2006, the National Arts Centre Orchestra of Ottawa Canada has been producing bi-monthly 30-minute podcasts featuring their upcoming programs.

Full article

One of the highlights of the hour-long show was a cameo performance by Ron Sexsmith. Here’s a QuickTime stream of Ron’s tune, “Former Glory” recorded live at the NAC’s Fourth Stage.

[Ron Sexsmith clip]

[Full Music Monday webcast]

Musicians are thinking about how to reach audiences with new technologies. As orchestras bring archival recordings to their web sites, the choices for music lovers will explode. Serving listeners good content at their convenience is central to the concept. But listener- controlled programming should not be a duplication of content available elsewhere. We need to offer performances that touch people more intimately. For example, my podcast this week (www.nac.ca/nacocast) features a chat with violinist James Ehnes about his Stradivarius.

‘Cheque’s in the mail, Chris.

link: full article