Although I recognize the beauty and talent needed to perform classical music, I must admit it's not that interesting to me. I played violin from fourth grade through high school, so I know the dedication it takes to become a good a violinist. I respect the performers in that sense, since they achieved a level of talent that I could never touch, but I can't help but like things more outside of the box. Juxtaposing this with the performance at Carnegie Hall, or even the incredible show at BAM, left me craving something a little less conventional. But, now that that's out of the way ...

Viewing Les Demoiselles d'Avignon a second time, after the class discussion, shed a whole new light on the piece. I, of course, had noticed the large size of the painting during my visit, but it was all the more daunting the second time around. Keeping in mind that the prostitutes in the work expected a tradeoff, something in return, and that the work wasn't going to let me look at it's beauty for free, my discomfort gained unexpected worth. It was my payment. I find this idea rather fascinating, that something inanimate has the right to demand an emotion back from you.

     The Alexander String Quartet provided a completely different experience than the China Festival’s Class of 78’ performance did at Carnegie Hall. Even though the concert hall at Carnegie Hall was lavish and intimate, I actually felt closer to the performers at the Baruch Performing Art Center. It was the first time I had seen the recital hall and was pleasantly surprised. As I continue to become accustomed to Baruch, I am always finding aspects of the building's architecture that I admire.