Roumanian Pianist Mihaela Ursuleasa’s Living Legacy

6:00AM

October 18, 2012

Classical 101 Morning Announcer and Host of the Promusica Chamber Orchestra live broadcasts.

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When 33-year-old Roumanian pianist Mihaela Ursuleasa died suddenly of a cerebral hemorrhage, musicians and music lovers alike mourned the too-soon passing of a rising star. Now, those who wish to mark her passing in a tangible way have taken it upon themselves to make certain that more than just her music is remembered.

Young pianist Mihaela Ursuleasa was the single mother of a 7-year-old daughter, Stefanie, who has gone to live with her grandmother Agripina. A fund has been established to aid in her support. Her mother’s affairs are being handled by Bernhard Kerres. (bernhard@kerres.com)

In a report filed by Norman Lebrecht, he stated that “many from all corners of the music world – artists, festivals, promoters – are looking out for her future and have contributed to a fund that has raised, so far, a remarkable 30,000 Euros.”

The video above is from her last performance in June of 2012.

Read Tragic death of young pianist (Slipped Disc)

Nine Denver Institutions to Share $57 Million Bond Windfall

A Denver bond initiative has turned into an unexpected source of funds for several Denver arts organizations.

It also pitted one organization against another as they battled to have a shot at money to fund everything from building renovations to a pedestrian bridge to help get patrons across a busy thoroughfare to the Denver Performing Arts Center.

Maybe this is a sign that the support-pendulum has begun to swing back the other way when it comes to helping cultural institutions in the U.S.

Read Nine Denver Institutions to Share $57 Million Bond Windfall (denverpost.com)

Random Acts of Culture Continue to Pop Up

There is something about a flash mob which can unite a crowd in a matter of seconds. The Knight Foundation has been sponsoring Random Acts of Culture for 2 years, hiding tenors in show departments, sopranos in restaurant lines, and clarinets in the canned foods. It also might be the first time I’ve seen a strolling pianist!

Read The five best – and worst – moments from 1,000 Random Acts of Culture (Knight Foundation)

Watch a Random Act of Culture at Whole Foods in Miami Beach