Brian Bethune

I was young, influential, in college, living in the dorm and doing homework.  I had the classical music station dialed in on the stereo, and I was unexpectedly soothed out of my Calculus studies by the one of the simplest, most mesmerizingly beautiful pieces of music I’d heard to date.  Calling the station, I discovered Glassworks by Philip Glass.  Thus began my longstanding enjoyment of the artistry of one of my favorite composers.

I was surprised to find Mr. Glass and his ensemble wherever I’ve roamed.  I made the trip to BAM to watch, enraptured, the revival of “Einstein on the Beach,” and recall the thrill of seeing (and hearing) Koyaanasqatsi at the beginning of my post-college European tour, and hearing what I would classify as one of the most memorable concerts in Amsterdam as that same trip ended. 

Throughout the years I have enjoyed the many aspects of Mr. Glass and his music it it’s many forms.  Indeed, I first became aware of the presenting program here at Tri-C several years before I arrived to head the Performing Arts Division because of Tri-C was presenting Mr. Glass.  I generally always show sections of Koyaanasqatsi or Powaqaatsi in my Intro to Film Class, and have become aware of his prevalence in accompanying movies (Dracula) and scoring others (The Hours).

He has, since I first heard him in college, secured a spot as an American Icon.  He is still extremely prolific and provocative.

It is with pleasure that I’m finally able to bring Philip Glass back to Cleveland, and to Tri-C, and I look forward to welcoming him in opening of our 2008-09 Season. 

The season is full of provocative folks, including Laurie Anderson, Hot 8 Brass Band from New Orleans, Dayton Contemporary Dance Company, Ballet Hispanico and choreographer Lar Lubovitch, with new group Project, which has roots at Cleveland Institute of Music.  Join us for a rousing exploration of programs. 

Click HERE to read the new season announcement in the Cleveland Plain Dealer.

Brian's Signature
Brian Bethune, Ph.D.
Dean of Performing Arts
Cuyahoga Community College