The date was May 16th. Years later, that date would host an event of great significance in my life: the birth of my son, but in May of 2000 I was just a 16 year-old kid stepping out on to a stage on a Tuesday. An introduction had just been made by microphone, the audience was about to hear an original piece written by a high school student. I was that student and the piece was "The Spirit of the Adventurer".
I was never a part of any school orchestras or bands, but I'd spent a great deal of time practicing with friends who were. (Especially in the weeks prior to that performance.) Issac, one of my friends, was a drum major for the high school marching band; I'd asked him to conduct my piece for our high school's Concert Orchestra while I took my preferred place at the piano.
Over the Summer, I composed another piece -- titled "Millennium Symphony". In the Fall, I performed it with my high school's Symphonic Orchestra. It was a piece which pushed the limits of conventional orchestra as I had written parts for two electric guitars. During the performance, the guitarists hid out of view behind the curtains until the start of their parts. With the first strum of their strings, they kicked up their amps and stepped on to the stage. Sitting at the piano nervously playing my part, I grinned when I heard the excitement from the crowd. Later I was approached by an older sibling of one of the members of the orchestra, he shook my hand vigorously as he said, "That was the BEST orchestra concert I've ever been dragged to! I am so glad I came tonight."
In the following months, I was asked to perform an arrangement I had made of James Horner's iconic song "My Heart Will Go On" with one of our school's talented vocalists: Kate Coppola. It was the first time I had performed on stage without an orchestra.
My next performance was at my high school graduation. Many talented seniors had been chosen to perform and/or speak during the ceremony; my assigned position was at the start of the schedule, playing music to settle the crowd before the other graduates walked out on to the field. I attended a notably large high school, so the ceremony took place in the school's stadium... in front of roughly five thousand guests. So, under the gaze of what was easily the largest number of people for whom I had ever played piano, I sat alone in the center of a field and debuted a new composition "Love's First Rose" along with an arrangement I'd done of James Horner's "Legends of the Fall" and my arrangement of Philip Glass' "Truman Sleeps".
Over the years, I've written several pieces of music, some mentioned here, some to be released in the future, and some that I keep happily tucked away in my mind or in their first drafts. I began my musical adventure by striking a few keys on the piano. Now, I would like to share that same adventure with you by striking the keys of a computer.
As you can see, I have created a profile on SoundCloud to better share my music on the web. Therein you will find a list of my currently available tracks and "sets" (specifically grouped tracks). I can only hope that you will enjoy listening to the music as much as I have enjoyed writing it.
2011-05-19
2011-04-25
INDY login with OpenID
Today, I'm proud to announce a new feature for existing INDY members.
If you're an INDY member, you can now "attach" one or many OpenIDs to your INDY account. This will allow you to log into INDY using your credentials from those sites.
As of the publishing of this post (2011-04-25 @ 16:00), the OpenID sites you can use are:
I encourage all current INDY members to attach at least one OpenID to their account as soon as possible. At the least, this will give you "a second set of keys" should you forget the password for your INDY account. You can find the OpenID manager in the "My INDY" section. Look in the third row of navigation links.
If you're an INDY member, you can now "attach" one or many OpenIDs to your INDY account. This will allow you to log into INDY using your credentials from those sites.
As of the publishing of this post (2011-04-25 @ 16:00), the OpenID sites you can use are:
- OpenID
- Yahoo!
I encourage all current INDY members to attach at least one OpenID to their account as soon as possible. At the least, this will give you "a second set of keys" should you forget the password for your INDY account. You can find the OpenID manager in the "My INDY" section. Look in the third row of navigation links.
2011-04-22
Make Earth Day about the Earth
Good morning! Today is Earth Day [EarthDay.org].
Forty-one years ago, the first Earth Day took place in the United States of America. Twenty years later, Earth Day went international, inspiring environmental awareness around the globe. What is Earth Day now? To some it is a day of measuring the consequences of human actions; to others it is a day of natural wonder.
I find it unfortunate that society has become so focused on controversy and opposition that people have forgotten the joy and excitement of special days of recognition. In the case of Earth Day, it would seem that many people view it now as a day of either penance or preaching.
In March, I invited readers to make Earth Hour "a time for thoughtful reflection". For Earth Day, I invite you to put your focus on the Earth. Seems obvious, right? There's a catch.
I don't only mean for us to focus on the environmental impact of human actions on our planet; I want to draw focus and appreciation on the planet as a whole: the beauty, diversity, and power of our world. Perhaps, as a child, you felt awe when you witnessed some specific aspect of Earth for the first time: volcanoes, ocean life, mountain peaks, human cultures, ancient artifacts or sites, etc..
Today, look at the world around you as if you are seeing it for the first time. Appreciate the nuance and beauty that surrounds you, then share the wonder you've felt with others. Your individual impact on the planet may be up for debate, but the impact of your actions and words on the people around you will always be strong.
Happy Earth Day! And finally, remember to say, "I love the World!"
Forty-one years ago, the first Earth Day took place in the United States of America. Twenty years later, Earth Day went international, inspiring environmental awareness around the globe. What is Earth Day now? To some it is a day of measuring the consequences of human actions; to others it is a day of natural wonder.
I find it unfortunate that society has become so focused on controversy and opposition that people have forgotten the joy and excitement of special days of recognition. In the case of Earth Day, it would seem that many people view it now as a day of either penance or preaching.
In March, I invited readers to make Earth Hour "a time for thoughtful reflection". For Earth Day, I invite you to put your focus on the Earth. Seems obvious, right? There's a catch.
I don't only mean for us to focus on the environmental impact of human actions on our planet; I want to draw focus and appreciation on the planet as a whole: the beauty, diversity, and power of our world. Perhaps, as a child, you felt awe when you witnessed some specific aspect of Earth for the first time: volcanoes, ocean life, mountain peaks, human cultures, ancient artifacts or sites, etc..
Today, look at the world around you as if you are seeing it for the first time. Appreciate the nuance and beauty that surrounds you, then share the wonder you've felt with others. Your individual impact on the planet may be up for debate, but the impact of your actions and words on the people around you will always be strong.
Happy Earth Day! And finally, remember to say, "I love the World!"
2011-04-14
Define your Life
I came across this video recently in my internet wanderings. It's an animated short called "Thursday" by Matthias Hoegg. Without using words, this seven minute video questions the nature of our modern "lives".
URL: http://vimeo.com/16962056
In a world filled with such dazzling technology, fast-paced transportation, superficial distractions, and societally defined priorities, it is easy to lose touch with the people who we cherish and the desires/goals we have for ourselves.
Over the past year, I have had to learn a great deal about what matters most in my Life and how to truly place my focus on the people and experiences which I value. Life is defined by the people with whom we connect and the experiences we choose. Appreciate the beauty that can always be found everyday. Strive to spend your time in ways which both energize you and help cultivate connections with the people you cherish. Acknowledge that you affect everyone and everything around you and that your actions define Life.
URL: http://vimeo.com/16962056
In a world filled with such dazzling technology, fast-paced transportation, superficial distractions, and societally defined priorities, it is easy to lose touch with the people who we cherish and the desires/goals we have for ourselves.
Over the past year, I have had to learn a great deal about what matters most in my Life and how to truly place my focus on the people and experiences which I value. Life is defined by the people with whom we connect and the experiences we choose. Appreciate the beauty that can always be found everyday. Strive to spend your time in ways which both energize you and help cultivate connections with the people you cherish. Acknowledge that you affect everyone and everything around you and that your actions define Life.
2011-04-10
Air Force told FBI about recovered flying saucers?
When I first read the headline "FBI Releases Document Confirming Roswell UFO" on Slashdot this morning, my initial reaction was to chuckle and think, "Yeah, right. Were they Asgard or Ferengi?" However, I still followed the link and tried to suspend any disbelief. I wasn't disappointed.
Tracing the story back to its source on the FBI's website, I found a memo written by Agent Guy Hottel to the FBI Director on March 22, 1950 [FBI Vault]. In this memo, the agent details contact from "an investigator for the Air Force" who stated that "three so-called flying saucers had been recovered in New Mexico" and that each was "occupied by three bodies of human shape but only 3 feet tall".
I've transcribed the body of the memo here:
Before we discuss further, let me make it clear, this document was certainly released by the FBI, officially, so I do not debate the document's authenticity. Now, let's look at the facts we can discern in the memo and consider their impact.
First, we know that some individual gave a Special Agent (SA) this information. We don't know who that individual was or how they came by the information themselves. (No, we cannot be sure that the individual is the "investigator for the Air Force". That is part of the information seen here, not necessarily the agent's source.)
Second, we know that a Special Agent chose not to evaluate the information further. This could mean any number of things, mainly that the SA either felt that the matter was of no concern to the FBI (e.g. jurisdiction) or that the informant (or information) was of questionable authority.
As you can see, a reasonable critique of the information can free us from sensationalism while still embracing the excitement of a notable document. Personally, I find the narrative enlightening. (At the least, as to the reporting and documentation of the FBI and its agents in the 1950s.) Regardless of whether all of the contents describe factual details of what may or may not have happened in Roswell, New Mexico, I think it's important to strive to always keep our priorities and goals in focus as we enjoy the excitement of each day and the community we share here on Earth.
Tracing the story back to its source on the FBI's website, I found a memo written by Agent Guy Hottel to the FBI Director on March 22, 1950 [FBI Vault]. In this memo, the agent details contact from "an investigator for the Air Force" who stated that "three so-called flying saucers had been recovered in New Mexico" and that each was "occupied by three bodies of human shape but only 3 feet tall".
I've transcribed the body of the memo here:
The following information was furnished to SA [redacted text] by [redacted text], [redacted text]As I said above, I wasn't disappointed. This is very intriguing information, but not something I considered so important that I should interrupt my day's plans -- as you may have noticed since I'm not writing or publishing this until almost 12 hours after reading.
An investigator for the Air Force stated that three so-called flying saucers had been recovered in New Mexico. They were described as being circular in shape with raised centers, approximately 50 feet in diameter. Each one was occupied by three bodies of human shape but only 3 feet tall, dressed in metallic cloth of a very fine texture. Each body was bandaged in a manner similar to the blackout suits used by speed flyers and test pilots.
According to Mr. [redacted text] informant, the saucers were found in New Mexico due to the fact that the Government has a very high-powered radar set-up in that area and it is believed the radar interferes with the controlling mechanism of the saucers.
No further evaluation was attempted by SA [redacted text] concerning the above.
Before we discuss further, let me make it clear, this document was certainly released by the FBI, officially, so I do not debate the document's authenticity. Now, let's look at the facts we can discern in the memo and consider their impact.
First, we know that some individual gave a Special Agent (SA) this information. We don't know who that individual was or how they came by the information themselves. (No, we cannot be sure that the individual is the "investigator for the Air Force". That is part of the information seen here, not necessarily the agent's source.)
Second, we know that a Special Agent chose not to evaluate the information further. This could mean any number of things, mainly that the SA either felt that the matter was of no concern to the FBI (e.g. jurisdiction) or that the informant (or information) was of questionable authority.
As you can see, a reasonable critique of the information can free us from sensationalism while still embracing the excitement of a notable document. Personally, I find the narrative enlightening. (At the least, as to the reporting and documentation of the FBI and its agents in the 1950s.) Regardless of whether all of the contents describe factual details of what may or may not have happened in Roswell, New Mexico, I think it's important to strive to always keep our priorities and goals in focus as we enjoy the excitement of each day and the community we share here on Earth.
2011-04-01
Site down time while I move to California!
The main INDY site will be down for a time while I move my things to California. I've decided to accept a job offer in Irvine. I have missed the ocean so much; I am thrilled to have this opportunity!
UPDATE (2011-04-01 @ 11:30): Here's a map of Irvine, CA. I found a place on Crosscreek which is about a 5 minute bike ride from Irvine College where I'll be working.
UPDATE (2011-04-01 @ 18:00): APRIL FOOLS! I do miss California and the ocean, but I'm kept content with the beauty of the Rocky Mountains; especially Fort Collins and working with the people I do at my current job.
UPDATE (2011-04-01 @ 11:30): Here's a map of Irvine, CA. I found a place on Crosscreek which is about a 5 minute bike ride from Irvine College where I'll be working.
UPDATE (2011-04-01 @ 18:00): APRIL FOOLS! I do miss California and the ocean, but I'm kept content with the beauty of the Rocky Mountains; especially Fort Collins and working with the people I do at my current job.
2011-03-26
A time for thoughtful reflection
Tonight, cities across the globe are powering down in recognition of Earth Hour. Over the years, Earth Hour has gathered a great deal of support. For some, the cognizance brought on by Earth Hour has changed how they behave in their daily lives; while others seem to only switch off their lights for that one hour before they again switch off their minds to the world for the rest of the year.
I've tried to make Earth Hour more than a simple act of environmental conservation and observation. Since I began recognizing it in 2008, I have tried to make Earth Hour a time of contemplation personally, culturally, and globally. Tonight, I encourage you to do the same.
As an aide in triggering those thoughts, allow me to share a list with you made by Tony Schwartz which he published in the Harvard Business Review. In his list, Tony presents us with a side-by-side grouping of things he thinks "We need LESS" and things "We need MORE":
Whether it's during the official Earth Hour (20:30 - 21:30 local time) [Earth Hour] or during a different hour of your choosing, I encourage you to turn off your lights, your gadgets, and your daily routine. In place of your usual behaviors for that hour, light a candle, sit outside, or simply meditate in the solace of your mind and spend an hour in consideration of your choices and how they affect you, your family and friends, your community, your culture, and your planet.
I've tried to make Earth Hour more than a simple act of environmental conservation and observation. Since I began recognizing it in 2008, I have tried to make Earth Hour a time of contemplation personally, culturally, and globally. Tonight, I encourage you to do the same.
As an aide in triggering those thoughts, allow me to share a list with you made by Tony Schwartz which he published in the Harvard Business Review. In his list, Tony presents us with a side-by-side grouping of things he thinks "We need LESS" and things "We need MORE":
It matters little what you may think of specific items from Tony's list; my hope is that this will prompt you to consider the same comparison of "needs" in your own life, as it did for me.
WE NEED LESS: WE NEED MORE: Information Wisdom Shallow billionaires Passionate teachers Self-promotion Self-awareness Multitasking Control of our attention Inequality Fairness Sugar Lean protein Action Reflection Super sizes Smaller portions Private jets High-speed trains Calculation Passion Experts Learners Blaming Taking responsibility Judgment Discernment Texting Reading Anger Empathy Output Depth Constructive criticism Thank-you notes Possessions Meaning Righteousness Doing the right thing Answers Curiosity Long hours Longer sleep Complaining Gratitude Sitting Moving Selling Authenticity Cynicism Realistic optimism Self-indulgence Self-control Speed Renewal Emails Conversations Winning Win-win Immediate gratification Sacrifice Source: http://blogs.hbr.org/schwartz/2011/03/30-things-we-need-and-30-we-do.html
Whether it's during the official Earth Hour (20:30 - 21:30 local time) [Earth Hour] or during a different hour of your choosing, I encourage you to turn off your lights, your gadgets, and your daily routine. In place of your usual behaviors for that hour, light a candle, sit outside, or simply meditate in the solace of your mind and spend an hour in consideration of your choices and how they affect you, your family and friends, your community, your culture, and your planet.
2011-03-18
Full Moon during lunar perigee
Tomorrow night (March 19th), the full Moon will rise and appear a little larger than usual; that's because it will be about 30,000 km (approx. 18,600 mi) closer to Earth during what's called the lunar perigee [Wikipedia: "Orbit of the Moon"].
The Moon's average distance from our lovely blue marble is about 385,000 km. The Moon's perigee tomorrow night will put it only 356,577 km (221,567 mi) away. While this is really only 7% nearer, the Moon will appear 12-14% larger as it passes across the night sky. Making it the perfect night to gaze upwards at our lonely natural satellite.
When the Moon's perigee coincides with a Full Moon or New Moon, it is sometimes called a "Supermoon" [wikipedia]; though that title appears more often in astrology and mass media than it does in scientific discussions.
Tomorrow's event is even more rare as it is the nearest approach of the Moon during its perigee since March 1993. More still, the Spring equinox occurs on Sunday; making this lunar affair almost as much fun as the "Winter solstice lunar eclipse" which happened last December.
So, as you enjoy the night, be sure to look up and appreciate the beauty of another unique astronomical experience.
The Moon's average distance from our lovely blue marble is about 385,000 km. The Moon's perigee tomorrow night will put it only 356,577 km (221,567 mi) away. While this is really only 7% nearer, the Moon will appear 12-14% larger as it passes across the night sky. Making it the perfect night to gaze upwards at our lonely natural satellite.
When the Moon's perigee coincides with a Full Moon or New Moon, it is sometimes called a "Supermoon" [wikipedia]; though that title appears more often in astrology and mass media than it does in scientific discussions.
Tomorrow's event is even more rare as it is the nearest approach of the Moon during its perigee since March 1993. More still, the Spring equinox occurs on Sunday; making this lunar affair almost as much fun as the "Winter solstice lunar eclipse" which happened last December.
So, as you enjoy the night, be sure to look up and appreciate the beauty of another unique astronomical experience.
2011-03-15
INDY Poll: Daylight Saving Time?
Just hours before the ages-old aggravation of Daylight Saving Time spread across the United States of America for the year 2011, I voiced my hatred of DST in the post "Why I hate Daylight Saving Time". Now it's your turn to add your voice to the debate....
2011-03-14
Pi is a lie. Happy Half Tau Day
Pi is a lie. The concept of Pi (Ï€) is confusing and makes trigonometry more complex than it needs to be. Math can be made easy to learn and understand. Michael Hartl proposes that we reclaim that simplicity through the use of Tau (Ï„).
Enjoy this video made by a Math student who understands the logic of Tau and the need to increase its popular use.
URL: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jG7vhMMXagQ
Intrigued? Try tasting this bit of Tau (excerpt from "The Tau Manifesto"):
Happy Half Tau Day! The complete celebration will come on the 28th of June.
Enjoy this video made by a Math student who understands the logic of Tau and the need to increase its popular use.
URL: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jG7vhMMXagQ
Intrigued? Try tasting this bit of Tau (excerpt from "The Tau Manifesto"):
The Tau Manifesto is dedicated to the proposition that the proper response to “Ï€ is wrong” is “No, really.” And the true circle constant deserves a proper name. As you may have guessed by now, The Tau Manifesto proposes that this name should be the Greek letter Ï„ (tau):
Ï„ ≡ C/r = 6.283185307179586…Throughout the rest of this manifesto, we will see that the number Ï„ is the correct choice, and we will show through usage (Section 2 and Section 3) and by direct argumentation (Section 4) that the letter Ï„ is a natural choice as well.
Happy Half Tau Day! The complete celebration will come on the 28th of June.
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