"Since I study and perform classical music all day long, I gravitate to other sounds for entertainment. Here's a sample of treasured favorites and newer discs that I adore."

These recordings are available from

1. Brahms: Piano Concerto No. 2
Leon Fleisher, piano; Cleveland Orchestra/George Szell (Sony 63225)
"I was privileged to study piano with Leon Fleisher for four years. He, Szell, and the Cleveland are a legendary team. For my money, this is their greatest collaboration and the best recording of this music ever made."

2. Bach: Goldberg Variations
Dimitri Sitkovetsky, New European Strings Chamber Orchestra (Nonesuch 79341-2)
"After listening to just 30 seconds of this amazing string arrangement of the keyboard masterpiece, I knew I had to invite Dima Sitkovetsky to perform it with the SPCO. It was stunning live, and this disc, superbly played, is a tonic for the soul."

3. Out of This World—Chanticleer (Teldec 4509-96515-2)
"From ethereal Thomas Tallis to a heart-breaking 'O Shenandoah,' Chanticleer transports you 'out of this world' in this dazzling and eclectic disc."

4. Circle Songs—Bobby McFerrin(Sony SK 62734)
"Bobby McFerrin's latest: hypnotic improvising and virtuoso a cappella singing from the man who owns this art form."

5. Heart of the Heartland—Peter Ostroushko (Red House Records CD 70)
"This unpretentious but elegant disc is a big favorite with my whole family: fresh fiddling and premiere plucking from the Twin Cities' finest folk musician."