Favorites from 2011: Videos

So, as I had promised, here are a few of my favorite YouTube videos I discovered in 2011! Since I'm a nerd and have way too much interest in the videos I find, I'm including a description of each video to give you some background information, inform you of something I found interesting, etc. Enjoy!

Ekaterina Gordeeva and Sergei Grinkov
Something I've discovered very recently is the beautiful, but tragic, story of Ekaterina Gordeeva and Sergei Grinkov. For those who don't know who these two are, they are Soviet/Russian pairs skaters who were Olympic Champions in both 1988 and 1994. Here are their gold-medal winning performances from the 1988 Calgary Olympics (first the short program, than the long program). For those running short on time, both of their long programs are my favorites.

Gordeeva and Grinkov's 1988 Short Program (to Bizet's Carmen):

G&G's Long Program, skated to a Classical Medley (to excerpts from: Mendelssohn's Italian Symphony, Chopin's Piano Concerto No. 2, an orchestrated version of Chopin's Revolutionary Etude, Chopin's Piano Concerto No. 1, and Mozart's Overture from The Marriage of Figaro)

Their technique is absolutely astonishing (look at their lifts, throw jumps, spins, etc.). I absolutely love their class, unison, and style of skating and movement (such obvious ballet influence!) that is so typical of the Soviets. The joy of skating and being together is completely apparent, especially on Ekaterina's (or Katya's, as she was known) expressive face.

After the Olympics, the pair continued to skate together and fell in love. They married in April 1991, and had an ADORABLE daughter, Daria, the following year. Eventually, they turned professional in 1992, skating in many shows, before taking advantage of a new International Skating Union rule that allowed them to regain their Olympic eligibility. As I mentioned before, they competed at the 1994 Lillehammer Olympics and won the pairs skating title there, as well. Here are their performances from that competition:

G&G's 1994 Short Program (to Romero's Zapateado and Farrucas):

G&G's 1994 Long Program (to Beethoven's Piano Sonata No. 8 "Pathétique" and Beethoven's Piano Sonata No. 14 "Moonlight"):

Their new maturity comes across very clearly in these new performances, despite (as the video says) their young ages of 22 and 27 for Ekaterina and Sergei, respectively. I love the Spanish attitude position at approximately 00:41 in the short program, and the spunk, and the body positions (especially the arms!) so suited to the Spanish music. And the long program... I think it's one of the most beautiful skating programs I have ever seen (as are all of Gordeeva and Grinkov's performances, but still!). Despite a couple of technical errors, their impeccable unison, expressive artistry, and unity create a truly memorable and beautiful performance.

Gordeeva and Grinkov are some of the figure skating world's very favorite skaters. They're performances were absolutely breathtaking: their artistry, technique, and togetherness were, and still are, special and unique from any other pairs skaters. I'm doing a bad job of explaining how amazing they are: watch the performances for yourself, and you'll see exactly what I'm doing such a bad job of putting into words!

If you can even believe it, their small but very happy family was torn apart when Sergei, at only 28 years old, had a heart attack and died, leaving behind Ekaterina and 3-year-old Daria.

My heart absolutely broke when I found this out. I had read a lot about the two, and seen many videos, and they seemed to be completely happy together. If their story (being paired up while still young, growing up together, training and competing together, winning the Olympics, falling in love and having a daughter, winning ANOTHER Olympics, etc.) isn't a fairytale, I don't know what is. I can't even imagine how painful Sergei's death was for Ekaterina.

A number of skaters who were good friends of both Ekaterina and Sergei put on a televised skating gala called "Celebration of a Life," in which Ekaterina returned to the ice, alone, in a gorgeous, tragic tribute to Sergei.

Here is her tribute, skated to Mahler's Symphony No. 5's Adagietto:

I truly believe this is one of the most moving and beautiful things I have ever seen.

I came across this video, before I had ever known about Ekaterina Gordeeva or Sergei Grinkov, and was crying by the end. Ekaterina, who had always been so expressive and joyful on the ice, gives a truly heartwrenching, but beautiful and genuine performance here. A remarkable tribute, one of my favorite performances ever.

Wow, that was really long! I just couldn't leave any of those videos out. :) The next ones are more individual videos, so don't be scared off by this post's length!

Alina Somova
I've mentioned Alina Somova, prima ballerina with the Mariinsky (ex-Kirov) Ballet, before on this blog. She was propelled to fame quickly, dancing Odette-Odile, the lead role in Swan Lake, at only 18 years old: unheard of in one of Russia's star ballet companies. She was named a principal dancer not long after.

Alina has been the victim of a number of criticisms. Beginning in the 1990s, the Mariinsky Ballet has favored tall ballerinas with high extensions. To some, Alina Somova was crossing the line: she is incredibly flexible, easily raising her leg to her ear; some had had enough of what they believed was bad Mariinsky management.

While I do agree that Alina looked slightly unstable in her earlier years (she was so young, so skinny and so flexible!), many of her criticisms were completely unwarranted. A lot of them have put her under duress that she did not, and definitely does not now, deserve.


Alina has always been beautiful and musical. However, after she switched coaches to the amazing and lovely Tatiana Terekhova, she has soared to new heights, in my opinion.

Here is her performance as Nikiya in La Bayadere, the variation and death scene. Some believe this to be her crowning role.

Despite what many say, I believe this video alone disproves those who say Alina Somova cannot act. In addition to her amazing physical gifts, her use of her entire body and especially, in my opinion, her face, completes Alina's performance. One of my favorite moments is from 6:02-6:14: I think it's a beautiful moment of acting. It shows Nikiya's pain, weariness, and seemingly righteous anger at Gamzatti, who placed the snake in the basket.

This performance of the end of Act 1 of La Bayadere (one of my favorite ballets!), straight from the Mariinsky Theatre, is stunning. Hope you'll enjoy it!

Clara Schumann's Piano Concerto

My piano teacher prides herself on the fact that she "discovered" this concerto, and that it is rarely played by others. Chances are, even if you are a classical music fan, you have never heard this concerto. However, what a shame that is! 

Listen:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=coAULW2ipiY&feature=related

(I really apologize: this is the best recording I've found, so even though I can't link the video into this post, I'd really encourage you to open this up in another window and listen!)

I think it's beautifully stylistically romantic, and frankly, brilliant and gorgeous. I wish it were played much more often; it's a shame it's relatively unknown. Enjoy the whole concerto: the second movement is slow, with only the piano and cello. It is definitely worth your time!

Daniel Cloud Campos

I'll admit, I don't know much about Daniel Cloud Campos. I'm a little bit into break dancing, just because I love Quest Crew to pieces. This video showed up in my YouTube feed after a couple of Quest Crew members favorited it, and it's become one of my favorite videos.

I think this video is refreshingly creative, funny, and so artistic. I love the cinematography, the bright colors, the jazzy beats, and especially the funky (but brilliant) concept! Not to mention Daniel Cloud Campos's awesome dancing. :D The end result is pretty incredible.

Ella Fitzgerald

This year, for the first time ever, I've gotten a little bit into swing jazz. Like most of the world, I am enamored with Ella Fitzgerald's amazing voice, phrasing, and musicality. I discovered this video late at night one time, and could not stop watching it. How does someone even have a voice like this? And at a live concert, too!

What a classy, legendary performance!!

The King's Speech

Although this movie came out last year, I still want to talk about it here. I absolutely loved the movie, and the music (a nice mixture of classical and newly composed music) was incredible. Here is the sequence in which King George VI makes his speech, to the second movement of Beethoven's Seventh Symphony.

Sorry it's not completely synced, by the way!

I think the entire film, and especially this scene, is very well done. The grand scale of the music and situation is met dramatically with amazing attention to detail (costumes and sets!), and great cinematography. 

Amy Winehouse

I'll admit, I didn't know much about Amy Winehouse before she died tragically at age 27 this year. But before that, I wasn't into soul music either. She's now one of my favorite artists of all time. 

She almost didn't make it to the 2008 Grammy Awards at all: problems with drugs and alcohol made it virtually impossible for her to gain a visa to enter the United States. She finally did obtain one, but not in time to arrive at the Grammy Awards. So instead, she performed via live stream from London to Los Angeles. 

Here is her performance of You Know I'm No Good and Rehab. Later in the program, she won 5 Grammy's for her album Back to Black.

I think it's such a tragedy that she had to live the life she did, riddled with so many drugs. She was a talented artist with an incredible voice; I loved her soul/R&B/jazz style. I know the world will continue to enjoy her music for years and years to come.

These are just some of my favorite YouTube videos and some information to go along with it. I worked hard to make sure these videos are the best quality possible, so please contact me if you find another video with better commentary, picture, or sound quality! Also, don't hesitate to contact me if you want more information, or are correcting my information.

Hope you enjoyed that plethora of videos, some of my favorites from 2011!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!! Best wishes to you all in 2012!

Introduction: Favorites from 2011

It's so difficult for me to even think that 2011 is coming to a close. So much has happened to me: I feel like I've been challenged (personally, academically and intellectually, musically, and spiritually) in ways I've never been before. Simultaneously, I've been blessed, rewarded, and forced to struggle with these experiences. I feel I have greatly matured this past year, and am grateful to have done so; it makes me eager to see what's to come next in my life.

So, in remembrance of 2011, my next two blogposts will be of some of my fondest memories, and, for my fellow YouTube and arts aficionados, some of my favorite YouTube videos! Hopefully you will enjoy and maybe learn from these reflections.

Best wishes to everyone for the new year of 2012! I hope you will drink up everything the world has to offer you, that you'll enjoy the seemingly hidden pleasures and beauties of life, and that you will know: a) how loved you are and b) the wonder of knowing God has a breathtaking life planned for you. Happy New Year!

An Apology and Update

So, I realize it's been almost two months since I've updated this blog.

What's filled my time? Let me check my Google Calendar for you...

• Performances (so many! Including: formal concerts, New York State Conference All-State, relaxed Christmas performances at banks, nursing homes, etc.) 
• An impressive smattering of pre-break tests and assessments
• The beginning of Christmas break!

It's been an insane two months: all my concerts seem to come at once. That, and second quarter of junior year threatening to take away my livelihood (just kidding, sort of). So for my prolonged absence, I apologize!

Despite my busyness and the inevitable stress that comes with it, I am so blessed to be where I am. I've had a wonderful time meeting new people, growing closer to people, sharing ideas, and performing and sharing music with others the past few months.

A lot of people tell me I'm doing too many musical activities, especially because I'm most likely not going to attend a musical conservatory. And yes, I have struggled mentally with devoting so much time to something I'm not pursuing as a career. But the fulfillment I receive from music is so incredible and indescribable, I know I have made the right decision in committing myself so fully. I recently was telling my family, the social aspect of music is almost as compelling to me as the music itself. The incredible friends I have made (some of whom I think of as my kindred spirits and/or soul mates), the inspiring role models, the addicting desire for improvement, and the pleasure of being welcomed and (in some cases) being a leader, is very self-satisfying to me. Of course there is, too, the beauty and power of the music I listen to, play, and in all cases, enjoy. What a wonderful life! To me, the happiness I receive from music is more than worth all the the hours I put into it; in fact, the more effort and time I spend on all my musical activities, the greater fulfillment I receive.

It's been a joy, recently, to play in a number of Christmas concerts. Usually one of the only times during the year I play for an atypical classical audience, it's a lot of fun to see people engrossed by our stringed instruments and playing (even if it doesn't sound that great!). One of my favorite moments was when a little boy came up to my quartet's first violinist, suddenly shy. He then proceeded to yell "Can you play Frosty?". Thanks to my orchestra teacher's vast Christmas collection piled onto our stands, we happily complied. 

Other than the music that takes up such a great place in my life, I've enjoyed my small triumphs in life. After I've had a difficult time in this second quarter of junior year, victories are all the more welcome! It's wonderful to see my hard work pay off.

Christmas break has been sorely desired and needed. It's amazing to have my whole family at home (my older sister has returned from college!); we've had a lot of fun as a family having meals together and just talking. Christmas was wonderful, and I actually really enjoyed going to church two days in a row: being with the church family, singing Christmas hymns, playing the viola, hearing the Christmas message, etc. Lighting candles as a church at the Christmas Eve service while singing Silent Night was especially beautiful and special to me.

I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and past couple of months!

Thank You

I just wanted to take a quick moment to thank everyone who reads my blog. It turns out I have a bigger audience than I had imagined, from many more countries than I could really have dreamed of. 


Thank you!


I hope that I'm fulfilling my ambition in somehow encouraging and/or inspiring you. Life can be stressful and difficult, and sometimes it's easy to live by merely forcing your way through life's happenings. 


I get pulled into that trap all the time. 


But remember, life really is not like that at all. It is a gift, fully surrounded with beautiful things and beautiful people. Even if you're immediate surroundings are desolate (which happen only in rare instances), the beauty of the world cannot be denied: even just on YouTube, there is an entire world to marvel over.


Enjoy yourself! Try to let go of your stress and worries today, even if just for a moment. 


Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. -1 Peter 5:7


Did you read that? God cares for you! We are not meant to be constantly stressed out: cast your anxiety on him, thank God today for a beautiful piece of music, or a caring friend.


You are amazing! Try to leave your stress behind today!

Random Fact #1: Alina

Note: I thought it might be fun to share random, fun, and quick facts about myself, so here we begin!

If I have a baby daughter, I want to name her Alina.

That probably has to do with the fact that...

...I'm fascinated, almost to a strange extent, with Russian culture, especially in regard to classical music and ballet.

...While a foreign name, it's highly pronounceable.

...I adore Alina Somova, principal dancer with the Mariinsky Ballet.

...and I think it's a really pretty name. :)

Inspiration

What a beautiful motto and mission! A great thought to have in mind at all times. :)

The Chamber Music Connection: Schumann

Today I had the most incredible chamber music coaching with my piano quintet. We are playing the Schumann Piano Quintet.

As masterful and beautiful as this performance is, watching it is now dull for me: that is how very profound the experience was for me. I truly felt the music while knowing the four musicians I was surrounded by, as well as my coach, were feeling it as deeply as I did. We thought, reasoned, experimented, breathed, and laughed together. I know I was making pained/emotional faces that I should probably be very embarrassed of, but looking back, I know I couldn't have done anything else: it was required of the moment. It was an amazing, remarkable experience. I can barely describe it in words. When you feel something so powerful as music with other people, it introduces an incredible connection. I have never known how chamber music, or the making of music in general, to be so greatly fulfilling.

Today's coaching was our second. I can't wait to see what our group will achieve in the year we have together.

I hope you'll enjoy this piece (if you like the first movement, please check out the entire quintet)! It is very romantic, sublime, and captivating. It takes my breath away!

A Chance to Breathe: Thoughts on the Beginning of My Junior Year

Hello readers!

Well. Obviously, it's been a bit since I've last posted, for an apparent and obvious reason: school has begun!

I'm a good month into my junior year of high school. In terms of schoolwork and outside activities, it's been my busiest year by far. And although I'm not getting enough sleep and the dark circles under my eyes seem to be present every morning, I wouldn't trade anything for what I have.

If you know me or have read anything of what I have written, it is frankly obvious that I am a nerd. And not only a nerd, but a supernerd. (I'm so awesome, aren't I? :D) So it shouldn't be surprising to you that school is interesting and invigorating to me. More than my being a nerd, though, I have been blessed by attending a really excellent high school with exciting, passionate teachers.

On top of that, I have entered junior year with what I believe to be a God-given new mindset. My main principles, in terms of my education, include:

1) Education is a privilege.
2) Work hard to benefit and/or honor myself, my family, and God.
3) Don't be influenced by peers in terms of negative lifestyle, attitude, or work ethic.
4) Learn from, and be inspired and guided by, positive influences: teachers, peers, etc.

I developed this mindset this summer because of a few reasons: reflecting on and journaling about my sophomore year in retrospect, seeing The Supply Education Group's videos about their school in Lenana, Kenya, inspiration from my amazing peers at last year's academic awards ceremony, my own passion and determination, and more. In addition to all this, my positive attitude I believe is straight from God. He has been so faithful and is so wonderful; He has really given me an amazing gift in my new attitude.

Yes, education is mandatory in accordance to federal regulations in the United States. But seeing The Supply's videos has made me see how fortunate we are to have education as a national requirement. In many parts of the world, education is but a dream.

Education empowers us, gives the younger generation a future, and opens the world up to discovery. It is our key to the future, a tool that allows us to enter society with a voice. School is not a burden: our education is a gift.

My school environment is remarkable. Yes, there are probably a disproportionate amount of kids who use drugs, there are those who always come in late or not at all, kids who skip classes, don't do their homework, etc.

But there are teachers who are excited about their subject, and are eager to share information and their past experiences. My peers are intelligent, thoughtful, hilarious, and unique. As I make my way into more advanced classes, I've noticed my classroom environments becoming more serious: I feel I'm learning more than I ever have. And although I do feel swamped with work, all the discoveries and opportunities available to me are incredibly exciting.

In terms of clubs, I'm excited to see what my school's environmental club (I'm treasurer) will achieve this year. Unfortunately, many of my clubs haven't really started up, but I'm looking forward to what they, and I in them, will accomplish.

Music.

It is truly my second life. I spend around around 14 hours or so a week involved in my youth orchestras, music theory classes, piano lessons, viola lessons, an honors piano quintet, and a scholarship string quartet. And while it can be a frustrating, overwhelming life (I was talking to a good friend today about how it's the whole "why all poets are suicidal" thing: artists are self-critical and determined to reach perfection), I feel incredibly blessed to be involved in such a wonderful art.

I am doing a LOT within music. But every single minute I spend practicing, rehearsing, attending class, etc. I feel myself maturing as a musician, artist, and person. My appreciation for my teachers and friends around me, as well as culture, history, and music itself, is constantly increasing. I'm so privileged to be in a position where I'm given such amazing opportunities: to learn from some remarkable artists and role models, to meet and bond with incredible musicians, people, and friends, and to surround myself with the beauty that is music.

God has blessed me greatly: I'm very thankful to Him. Yes, I'm struggling a little with the work load and busyness: sleep is indeed a precious commodity that I'm definitely lacking at this point! But beyond that, I'm continually amazed by the depth of everything that is in the world, ready for me to encounter and discover.

Life is a gift. God has placed it before us.

Enjoy it. :)

Relay for Life 2011

Today I'm going to share with you what may have possibly been the best thirteen and a half hours of my life.

If you do not know, Relay for Life is an event organized by the American Cancer Society. Teams raise money and attend an event for cancer awareness and remembrance, while uniting to find the cure.

While my school district put on an event last year, it was somewhat poorly attended because of its last-minute planning. Additionally, it did not go overnight, lasting only around six hours. I attended, but don't believe I received the whole experience that Relay is. This probably also amounted to the fact that I was on a team that signed up for shifts, and I only attended for a couple of hours. It did have its benefits though: I enjoyed the time I spent with my friends, and the relatively small number of people allowed the games to be very fun. 

This year, however, I believe Relay for Life reached its potential in my community. Together, we raised over $65,000, with over four hundred people participating. It was a truly wonderful event: it was held outside, like most are, for twelve hours (7 P.M. until 7 A.M.). The organizational team did a fantastic job getting the outdoor track set up, organizing EVERYTHING, and making the experience an unforgettable one.

I, personally, began my journey to Relay very late. I was unsure if I would be available on the date (it was in the summer), and when my plans began to solidify, I saw Relay would be two days before an international trip I was taking. Perhaps not the best of circumstances.

However, due to the urging of the committee to my school's student body, as well as my own desire to participate, I finally asked my friends if they wanted to create a team with me. As younger members of our school (the committee was created of seniors, only, I believe), I found no teams that I, or my friends, would really belong to. I found that frustrating, but only increased my efforts to start our own team.

Finally, I received positive feedback. A few of my friends would definitely participate with me! As the one who had constantly bothered my friends, prodding for resolute answers and creating a monster of a Facebook thread, I began and captained our team: Team Ready for a Cure.

Okay. I know, I know, the team name is not the most original, nor the most creative. But honestly, at this point, we had less than a week until the Relay. Less than a week to organize who was bringing what, to fundraise, to fit the twelve hour event into our schedules. I worked frantically to try to familiarize my friends with what would happen, so they, and I, would be well prepared in terms of being registered, having sweatshirts and long jeans to change into, etc. I scoured the Relay for Life website for checklists of items to bring, continued to bother my friends by sending them hourly weather charts of the event (oh yes, I'm a bit obsessive), registration forms, etc. Due to the lack of time, I was able to raise a bit of money from my family members and myself, but that was it, unfortunately.

Finally, it was the day! I was very excited to spend my time enjoying the event, until literally half an hour before I was going to leave.

ADULT SUPERVISION.

I can't tell you how much I was panicking. I had spent so many hours (literally!) making sure my team had everything it needed, and these measly thirty minutes before I was to arrive, we would perhaps not be able to spend the night? I was pretty much going out of my mind.

Thankfully, I asked a graduated senior who I had become pretty close to, who told me his team didn't have a supervisor and that the committee would probably not kick my team out. It was a school event after all, teams created by kids would have to be acceptable.

Grateful for his help but still not knowing if we would be able to spend the whole time there, I picked up one of my friends and arrived at the event. After learning with glee they would allow us to stay overnight without an adult supervisor (honestly, we really didn't need one), I worked with my mom and friend to set up the tent.

If you don't know me personally, my family is very un-outdoorsy. We love nature and its incredible beauty, but camping just doesn't work with us. We tried camping in a tent at a church retreat once, and never went again.

As you can probably guess, therefore, my mother and I served almost zero help to my brilliant, amazing friend who set up the complicated tent virtually all by herself. After that, my three other friends arrived one by one, until we were our complete Team Relay for Life: a solid five members (aw, yeah).

I'm not going to go singlehandedly into each amazing event that took place that 13.5 hours, but it is a night (and morning) I will never forget.

I was able to discuss and remember effects cancer have had on my life, and my friends shared their stories. It was an incredible thing for me, because in all honesty, nobody talks about stories like these in school. It's just something you keep and struggle with to yourself in school, even with your friends. It was amazing to share stories, to see where we were all coming from, and to sympathize and empathize with each other.

In the beginning, we all walked together until splitting off (two people wanted to put bug spray on, stayed for a LONG time at our campsite eating and talking, when they finally returned, the other three were tired and needed a break, etc.). Eventually, though, I think we just couldn't bear being separated. We all walked together around the track for a long time, talking, laughing, skipping, dancing, linking arms.

I still remember walking and seeing the gorgeous sunset, with hundreds of people from my community around me rallying for the same cause. The sky lit with soft pinks, purples, and blues, as the sun sank underneath the radiant clouds to the darkness below.

After darkness fell, one of the most memorable occasions of Relay took place: the Luminaria ceremony. The bags with candles were decorated by people earlier during the event (I believe four of my friends bought and decorated one) and lined up around the track. In the darkness, the luminaria bags were lit. Snuggled in our jeans, sweatshirts, sweatpants, my friends all settled down onto the grass to watch the ceremony commence.

An emotional and amazing Luminaria ceremony took place that night. A couple people spoke of people they loved who had fought and lost to cancer, and a slideshow of survivors and those who, unfortunately, did not survive, took place above the track. Afterwards, we walked a lap of silence to remember those who had fought cancer. Linking arms with my friends, we walked together, looking at all the names that adorned the luminaria bags around the track. On the bleachers, luminaria bags created the word "hope".

It was so incredible.

Afterwards, Relay continued. I had an extremely memorable, 11-lap, hour long (my friends counted) discussion with the same graduate I mentioned earlier. I had spent time with him beforehand, but didn't know him individually too well. I really admired him, perhaps from afar, however, as he is a role model for many. Our conversation contained pretty much everything: it was amazing. I believe we learned so much about and from each other, even in that one conversation.

My friends and I became inseparable by this time. We refused to split up, like we had earlier, going as an entire team to walk the track, and then back to our campsite to talk, laugh, etc. I had an unbelievably good time with them. Particularly memorable was our decision to walk another lap after we had been resting for a couple of hours. This was probably around 3 A.M. We were incredibly sore (we walked for such a long time!), but persevered on, linking arms and kind of shuffling/tripping around the track. We finally slept (more like napped), completely exhausted and sprawled on top of each other, at I believe, 5 A.M. or so.

To be awoken half an hour or so later. It was time to pack up!

As we waited for others to finish packing (I'd say most teams had at least eight people as opposed to our five), we sat in our lawn chairs looking somewhat grumpily (but good-naturedly!) at the early morning sun (another of my friends and I, the non-morning people, had missed the actual sunrise). The sun fell so beautifully over the school above us, painting it with light and color. The sky had never looked so bright blue and alive.

We took our last lap together as participants of the Relay. Once again, I stumbled/walked with my team, arm in arm. We took pictures of our luminaria bags, and then waited together for our parents to pick us up, smiling, fooling around, and interacting grumpily but with love.

Despite being prepared only for a week, with only a five person team, my Relay experience was surreal. I truly felt the community uniting to fight cancer, to remember, celebrate, and honor together. I shared stories with, and was told stories, I maybe would have not shared or heard. I empathized with my friends, and community. I solidified my relationship with, and got to know, someone who is the closest thing to an older brother I have ever had. I have countless memories of my friends and I laughing, talking, and fooling around during our 13.5 hours together. I remembered my mom's and family's fight with cancer. I found determination to prevent any other family from having to deal with the deadly disease that is cancer. My friends and I talked without letting gossip darken our time together. I got the most exercise I will most likely get this year. Oh, and I received a snazzy t-shirt with "Team Captain" on the back.  

There are too many words, too many memories. I will never forget it.

If you ever have the opportunity, please look for a Relay for Life around you. Get some peers, coworkers, or friends (friends, I think, make for the most enjoyable companions!) to join you: be proactive in creating a Relay experience for yourself. It is a big commitment, as most are overnight. But you will not regret it! It is an extraordinary way to, as the American Cancer Society says, to "Celebrate. Remember. [And] Fight Back.".

Cancer has affected an incredible amount of people all over the world. Relay is an amazing way you can raise money and awareness to fight against it, whilst uniting with your community and spending time with people you love.

4 A.M.

The glaring of the white light a foot from my face.

The fingerprint on my laptop I can only see with my chin resting on my arm.

Trying so desperately hard, but simultaneously losing hope.

The color sucked out of my greenish skin.

The impending deadline.

The various music played: the only thing that can keep me company at this hour.

This is how it feels. To stay up endlessly late completing your work.

Note: DO NOT do this.

At least it's summer.

Too bad I didn't start my summer work earlier.

I do apologize for the negativity; for moments like this though, is there really anything else?

Keep working hard people! Try not to procrastinate like this nerd (albeit a bad time-managing one) here!

The Hunger Games

I am an enormous fan of the Hunger Games series. If you haven't read at least the first book (entitled simply The Hunger Games), I would really urge you to pick up a copy sometime!

After a trip to Barnes and Noble (one of my favorite places, actually) around a year ago, I finally listened to numerous peers and bought a copy of the novel. I then proceeded to spend the entire night (and early morning) fully engrossed in the story. I know the cliché "I couldn't put the book down" is disgustingly overused, but in this instance, The Hunger Games literally did not leave my hands until I finished. The thoughts of "Oh, I have youth orchestra very early tomorrow morning" vanished as soon as I was finished with the first chapter. The characters, dark setting, mystery, and unceasing tension made me interchangeably uneasy, hopeful, terrified, and sympathetic to the main characters. The story is unceasing and driving, but wonderful. I enjoyed supremely the entire story.

So has Hollywood, apparently. After the completion of the trilogy in book format, it was announced that the first book would be adapted into a movie, with Jennifer Lawrence as Katniss Everdeen, Josh Hutcherson as Peeta Mellark, and Liam Hemsworth as Gale Hawthorne. And here is the new trailer, straight from its premier at the VMAs!

Some people find the trailer confusing, especially those who are not familiar with the story. I would not dare give spoilers away on the amazing series, but do not be turned off if the trailer seems too short! It is, I believe, only a teaser trailer, and the story is so beautifully rich and interesting. Read the book: you will not be disappointed! Or, if you're not a book kind of person, simply wait until March 23, 2012. It's going to be amazing!

Reflections on the 2010 Gymnastics World Championships

Note: I apologize, but this blog post is pretty detail-oriented, and may be confusing for those who are not gymnastics fans.

I'm very excited to see the leaps and bounds women's gymnastics has travelled since 2009: I have been watching the 2010 World Gymnastics Championships and am really looking forward to this year's competitions and of course, the 2012 London Olympics.

The Russian team looked excellent at the 2010 World Championships. Ever since the fall of the Soviet Union, Russian gymnastics has not been what it once was. The 1996 Olympic team was very good, but was somewhat disjointed as its gymnasts were now separated into the Ukrainian, Belarusian, and other teams. The 2000 Olympic team caused an incredible amount of drama as they begrudgingly accepted the silver medal in the team competition. The 2004 Olympic team cried in jubilation as they accepted their bronze medal. Later, in 2008, they looked on in disappointment as they earned fourth place.

A far cry from the absolutely dominant team from the Soviet Union.

Now, it seems they may be making their return. Their team looks gorgeous: well-trained in ballet with great style and difficulty as well. I was very pleased with their win at the team competition, and know that they must be thrilled! Tatiana Nabieva and Aliya Mustafina stand out in particular, as the two who qualified for the all-around competition. I know that Ksenia Semenova, the adorable and very talented gymnast who placed fourth in the all-around competition in Beijing, was on the world team; however, she was not the star like I had expected. Hopefully she is still healthy and training: I really admire and love her style. Tatiana Nabieva has some incredible difficulty (a toe-on laid out Tkatchev and Amanar vault (round off to 2.5 twist): wow!), but I'm not extremely taken by her because of some form issues. She is an incredible gymnast, nevertheless. I never thought in 2008 that I would like Ksenia Afanasyeva so much: her stylish, but extremely powerful gymnastics is wonderful, and reminiscent of the lovely Anna Pavlova. It was a shame about the two falls she had in the floor final. Aliya Mustafina is an enormous talent who I really love! I'll post more about her later.

Here is Ksenia Afanasyeva's gorgeous floor routine from the team final.

I'm thrilled to see Sandra Izsbasa still on the Romanian team, even after becoming the Olympic Champion on floor exercise in 2008. She is not at the level she once was, but I'm very inspired by her comeback and hope she will continue to grow. One of my favorites, Gabriela Dragoi, is also still on the team. She is not as prominent a team member as I hoped she would be at this point (she was 16 and a rising star in 2008, qualifying for the Olympic balance beam final), but once again, I am excited to see where she will go. Diana Chelaru was someone I've never heard of prior to this competition, and I really adore her powerful, but athletic, beautiful, and fun style. Earning the silver medal in the floor final, her individuality out on the floor is very distinct and refreshing. Finally, Ana Porgras, whom gymnastics fanatics have become slightly obsessed with, looked very good at this competition. I'm hoping for more difficulty from her (she has only a full-twisting Yurchenko at the 2010 Worlds, and I think she could gain more difficulty on all other three apparatuses), but she is a beautiful gymnast, with wonderful lines and great ambition. I am slightly deterred by her hands, as a picky ballet fan, but other than that, I really love her. She is a huge hope for the sport.

Here is Diana Chelaru's floor routine from the team final: I was wowed by her power and personality!

The Chinese team is definitely not the superstar team it was in 2008, but is still doing fairly well for itself, winning the team bronze medal. I'm excited to see He Kexin, Jiang Yuyuan, and Deng Linlin still on the team. I hope to see some forward movement from He Kexin: can you imagine what a threat in the all-around she would be with that bars score? Jiang Yuyuan looks very good, I'm thrilled to see her lovely gymnastics and personality back. Her gymnastics is very clean and beautiful: once again, I'm excited to see her future progress. Deng Linlin, the adorable, tiny 16 year old in Beijing has really developed as a gymnast. Her power is so incredible, especially since it's found in such a tiny gymnast. Finally, Huang Qiushuang is China's new all-around rising star: she seems young and still slightly inexperienced, but very exciting. I hope for more dramatic choreography for her, because she has incredible potential.

Solid beam routine from Jiang Yuyuan in the all-around competition:

The American team looked good, winning the team silver medal. I'm excited to see Alicia Sacramone back, especially after her disappointing performance in Beijing in the team competition. Once again, I really am inspired by her decision to come back, as well as her current success. Rebecca Bross is quite a good gymnast, very dynamic. I'm not a huge fan, but I think highly of what she has achieved and her powerful style. To finish, I would like to say how surprised and excited I was with Alexandra Raisman. She is incredibly stylish, powerful, with very good form. I love her individuality and personality, and can't wait to see what comes next for her!

Here is Alexandra Raisman's floor exercise in the team final: move ahead to 1:05 to see where her routine actually begins.

On another note, I was very impressed with Vanessa Ferrari. She was the Italian all-around champion at the 2006 World Championships, but is still performing very well now. I was not sure she had that in her, and am so glad she is so successful! Also, Beth Tweddle's (from the UK) bars performance in the finals was absolutely astonishing: a deserving champion. I'm sure there are more gymnasts who I was very excited with, and I apologize for not including them.

Beth Tweddle's incredible bars routine in the event finals:

Aliya Mustafina: 2010 World Champion! I am absolutely thrilled for her, she is a wonderful, very exciting gymnast, even at only 16! Her form is very good (except perhaps for her twists), and her style is very traditionally Russian which is wonderful: one can absolutely see her ballet training. She has remarkable difficulty and exciting routines; she is an breathtaking gymnast who deserved completely her all-around title and five total medals at this championship. Here is a video of her beautiful floor routine that completed her all-around competition.

Although I know so much can change in two years in the gymnastics world, this 2010 World Gymnastics Championship has made me very excited for the future and for the 2012 London Olympics. These girls are extremely talented, with innovative skills and gorgeous styles. Every team and every gymnast is unique and exciting, and the future seems to be very bright indeed for gymnastics!

Why I Love Artistic Gymnastics

I discovered the sport of artistic gymnastics (known to the majority of the world as simply "gymnastics") in 2004 whilst viewing the women's competition in Athens. I was elementary school age, and entirely engrossed in the daring acrobatics, shiny leotards, dance, and drama that altogether created gymnastics. I fervently hoped for Carly Patterson's, the sweet-looking American's, victory, and was overjoyed as she stood on her coach's shoulders. "The second American women to win the all-around competition!", the commentators continued to exclaim. As I listened carefully to the commentators' remarks, I tried to understand the complex sport. I kept hearing the words "arabian", "pirouette", "salto", etc.: I was just awed that the commentators had a quick enough eye and vast enough knowledge to tell the complex-looking skills apart! Though I didn't understand much, which included the scoring system, politics, and more, the sport still made a huge impression on me.

Fast forward four years to 2008. I was in the end of my middle school years, and was already quite a curious soul (oh yes, I had discovered YouTube and Wikipedia by this point!). Although I hadn't seen gymnastics since 2004, I meticulously wrote down what time the women's competitions would take place and kept the paper in a familiar place. I was anxious for gymnastics to begin, especially as the media was going crazy over the princess, diva, and superstar Nastia Liukin, and the all-American sweetheart, Shawn Johnson.

When the competition began, it seemed even greater than my 8-year-old mind had remembered. These talented girls were doing skills no one had competed before, while simultaneously dealing with the pressure of being on the international stage. All the girls competed fearlessly to the very best of their ability, making of themselves role models to girls all over the world.

As you may very well know, it was a good year to be American. Nastia Liukin and Shawn Johnson gave the performances of their lives. Nastia won (as the third American to do so) the all-around competition, as well as silver medals in the team, uneven bars, and balance beam finals, and the bronze medal on the floor exercise final. Shawn Johnson earned the silver medal in the team, floor exercise, and all-around finals. After a long, long wait, she won her Olympic gold medal on her last event final: balance beam. I was absolutely thrilled with Nastia and Shawn's amazing accomplishments, and am still stunned at how gymnasts, some only 16 years of age, can cope with the incredible pressure of Olympic competition.

My love for gymnastics began to truly develop as I saw all the wonderful things each gymnast, regardless of nationality, had to offer. I fell in love with Anna Pavlova's incredible grace and power, Ksenia Semenova's spunk and impeccable form, Cheng Fei's elegance and strength, Jiang Yuyuan's charming personality and beautiful gymnastics, Sandra Izbasa's maturity and gorgeous landings, etc. After watching the 2008 Olympics gymnastics competition over and over again on YouTube, I continued to explore the unique brilliance of each talented gymnast.

After a while, I began to explore other competitions: historical ones. I began to easily name each skill performed, and started to familiarize myself with gymnastics from the 1980s and 1990s. I saw Nadia Comaneci's legendary performances, Olga Korbut's innovative skills, and so much more. I saw full coverage of Olympic competitions dating all the way back to 1988. Due to the vast variety of YouTube's videos, I was able to explore not only celebrated routines from the past, but also brilliant but obscure ones. It was incredible for me to discover all the beauty and innovativeness that has accompanied the sport since its creation.

Being the nerd I am, I have also enjoyed the history that exists alongside artistic gymnastics. As one of the most watched sports from the summer Olympics, the sport is also incredibly political. I was able to see the dominance of the Soviet team dissipate as its powerful gymnasts were suddenly spread throughout the Russian, Ukrainian, Belorussian, and other teams. I viewed the scandals that took place, as Vera Caslavska, a Czech gymnast in 1968, demurely turned her head down on the medal podium. While perhaps not seeming like a scandal at first, it made headlines worldwide: she was refusing to acknowledge the Soviet flag and national anthem of the women who suspiciously tied for the gold medal with her. There have also been global concerns of the well-being of gymnasts who, under mainly communist regimes, have been worked since a young age, forced to enter competitions underage to bring glory to their country.

Despite all the scandals and drama, I find artistic gymnastics an absolutely fascinating sport (actually, on further thought, some of the scandals and drama make it more interesting). It showcases, in a way I think no other sport does, precision, discipline, beauty, acrobatics, and drama. And not only that: if one wishes to explore gymnastics, he/she will be sure to find an interesting, complex tale that complements perfectly the world events that accompanied it. Quite an interesting companion to learning world history, if you ask me.

Check out thrilling Nadia Comaneci's historical performance in the 1976 Olympics in Montreal: the first routine to earn a perfect 10!

Say Something Nice: I Love ImprovEverywhere! And Everyone!

After first turning on my computer, I did my usual activity to try to setback the unavoidable work and approaching deadlines. That is, visiting my email account, Facebook, Sporcle, and, of course, YouTube. It is very effective in taking my mind off the dreaded work... until a half hour or so (hopefully less!) goes by before I realize what an idiot I am. But, you know, whatever...

If you didn't realize by now, I am a massive YouTube addict. I love the immense variety of videos that can be found, and, as an arts, culture, and history lover, you can imagine I bask in the glory that is YouTube.

Like the supernerd that I am, of course.

Despite all that is out there on YouTube, I have to say videos like this one have to be my very favorites. It was the first video I saw after turning my computer on today, and it was so uplifting! I felt rejuvenated, and simply happy. If you haven't already clicked on the video, do it now! You will see exactly what I'm talking about, I hope.

Although there are many videos like this on YouTube, this simply has to be one of my favorites. As the backstory says (I'll give you a link on the bottom), there were no actors involved besides the two that set the podium up. All the people shown in the video, and I'm sure many more, chose to step up to the podium and say a nice statement of their own accord. I find it so sweet that this event caused people to care about those around them. I especially love the girl who compliments another girl's blue umbrella. "Hey! You with the blue umbrella! THE BLUE UMBRELLA!" sounds like quite the combative statement. Not in this occasion, though. Here, the girl simply says, sweetly, "I really like it!", and hands the megaphone off to the next two people.

ImprovEverywhere is a YouTube channel famous for creating out-of-the-ordinary events in public places (maybe you'll recognize "Frozen Grand Central" or other viral videos created by them). I enjoy how they bring people, and strangers, together as they puzzle, marvel, and laugh together at ImprovEverywhere's bizarre and/or unusual acts.

It's so easy to ignore and act oblivious to those around you, especially in a crowd. ImprovEverywhere defeats, even for small moments, this insensitivity that is so natural to us. They gift people with laughs and shared moments with strangers. As amusing and funny as their acts are, my favorite part of their videos is always how strangely touched I always feel afterwards (I know, how cheesy). Many times, they are creating acts and events in New York City, where there are millions of people who may never communicate, despite their close quarters. It is heartwarming to see such different people brought together, even just for a few seconds.

Videos like this give me hope, and really highlight the beauty of how we are all human, and not really that different at all. Enjoy, and say something nice to someone around you today!

Backstory: http://improveverywhere.com/2011/08/22/say-something-nice/

Twyla Tharp's Sinatra Suite: Marcelo Gomes and Luciana Paris

I'm so excited to begin sharing some of my favorite things with you: hope you enjoy this first installment!

This is the Sinatra Suite, created by prominent American dancer and choreographer Twyla Tharp in April 1984. Marcelo Gomes, American Ballet Theatre (ABT) principal, and Luciana Paris, ABT corps de ballet member, are dancing this particular performance at the 2008 Kennedy Center Honors, in which Tharp was an honoree.

In this particular performance, the suite is cut from five to three songs, due, I assume to time restraints and other issues that accompany television broadcasts. It's a shame, but I find the performance remains logical as far as the storyline goes. Most importantly, it feels to me in no way incomplete as a piece of both art and storytelling.

For some ballet connoisseurs, you may be wondering why I didn't choose the ever-so-famous Baryshnikov-Kudo performance. While I love that as well, it was this particular performance and video that introduced me to the fabulous Frank Sinatra. I can't help but show a childlike preference to the first performance I've seen for this particular suite, especially now that it has fond memories (I credit my love of Sinatra to this very YouTube video!) attached. Also, although I promise I do see Baryshnikov and Kudo's brilliance, I do enjoy the more modern style Gomes and Paris perform with here. I take a stronger liking to Gomes and Paris's acting as well: I appreciate especially Paris's incredible performance and expressions that are so appropriate to this work.

I adore this performance and the brilliance that Twyla Tharp, Marcelo Gomes, and Luciana Paris have created here. Once again, this performance is where I discovered Frank Sinatra, so, perhaps sillily, it holds a special place in my heart! I've fallen in love with the ballet/ballroom/modern style of dance showcased here, that brings us so lovingly back to the Sinatra era. Additionally, I love the effort Tharp committed to focusing on a single couple and their experience in life together. As I watch the performance for maybe the hundredth time, I still can't help but to be awed by Sinatra's unique voice and remarkable diction, as well as the distinct brilliance of Tharp's choreography. That, combined with Gomes and Paris's unforgettable performance, creates a thrilling work of art that never fails to take my breath away.

Whether this is a familiar performance or suite to you, or if you have never heard Frank Sinatra or seen anything even close to this style of dance, I hope you enjoy this as much as I did! Please click on the words at the top of the video to see it slightly larger in a new window!

Sources and Further Reading:
http://www.abt.org/dancers/default.asp
http://www.twylatharp.org/archive/dance_page.asp?danceSelected=82#
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Twyla_Tharp

Introduction to "An Opportune Gift"

Hello! Over the past year or so, I've been slowly delving into the world of blogging. Slightly on a whim, and also with the assurance that my sister would begin a blog as well, I figured that my procrastination should end. Thus I present: an introduction to my blog.

While creating this blog, I decided early on that its purpose would be to share moments and observations of my life, as well as reviews and recommendations of the many things I love (gymnastics, ballet, music, movies, etc.). It seemed fitting, therefore, to title my blog "An Opportune Gift". God has given us the incredible, opportune gift of life, brimming with hopes, opportunities, struggles, joy, inspiration, and beauty. This blog is devoted to exploring and experiencing the God-given gift that is life, and all the wonders and beauty it has in store.

In addition to sharing snapshots of my life, expect also random memories and observations, as well as music, movie, and book recommendations (I love classical, swing, jazz, alternative, broadway, R&B, soul, and pop music, fantasy and classic books, and although I'm not into movies that much yet, I love old movies and good dramas). Also, an onslaught of YouTube videos containing my interests (ballet, gymnastics, dance, short films, music, etc.), and spontaneous thoughts are sure to be in store. No matter who you are and where you are in life, I hope that you may find something interesting, and maybe even inspiring, somewhere in this blog.

Thank you for visiting!