tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79330232024-03-24T02:50:39.501+08:00Julian's headConversations with myself - for the world to read.Julianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00816420993104386717noreply@blogger.comBlogger404125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7933023.post-48002918294989307362011-01-07T08:56:00.000+08:002011-01-07T08:56:37.793+08:00Hello Pittsburgh..Hi all..<br />
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I guess this is my once in a blue moon blog post... I haven't found much impetus to write a lot online these days...I guess it's also the inevitable result of fast social networks like Facebook and Twitter, right?<br />
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But anyway, greetings from Pittsburgh. I'm sitting on a rest area (with couches and TV) in a shopping mall, with Cher Siang reading a book, while waiting for fellow WVC TRiO member, Adam Osmianski, to finish teaching at a school and picking us up and taking us a club called CJ's for a jazz jam session.<br />
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Just in case you're in a blur of what's happening, this band is sort of in a small U.S. tour right now. This is in conjunction with Cher Siang coming to the US visiting New York City. What a good opportunity to do some gigs here in the US, right? So, anyway, we did our first (of three) shows in NYC in a nice place called Spike Hill, located in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. We played one 45 minute set, and basically got paid by tips. Luckily there was still a small crowd that came, even though we were the first band to go up (of three bands that night) at 8pm. I think some CDs were sold too... so that's always a nice thing. The band kicked ass, and I think overall it went well. I wished I played better though.. haha..<br />
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Anyway, we're now in Pittsburgh, and we are playing 3 sets at this place called Little E's tomorrow (Friday Jan 7th), and we're joined by a Pittsburgh bassist, called Tony DePaolis. Quite a killer bass player, he basically sight-read the music, and pretty much nailed all of it during the 4-hour rehearsal we did. I'm looking forward to playing tomorrow night.<br />
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Next stop after Pittsburgh is Morgantown, West Virgina, where we'll be playing at the Creative Arts Centre (CAC), in West Virginia University, Cher Siang's and Adam's alma mater. There'll be some masterclasses/workshops as well I believe. Can't wait to check out some new places.<br />
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Pittsburgh is a nice town, less urban density than in NYC, but still pretty urban in the downtown area. It seems to me it's mostly located on a hillier expanse.<br />
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On another note, looks like things for me will be a'changing again soon. Some of you already know what it is, but I will write about it next time. :)<br />
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Till then.. be safe everyone.<br />
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Later, peepz.Julianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00816420993104386717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7933023.post-30787278749249780132010-09-09T22:07:00.002+08:002010-09-09T22:18:38.283+08:00The Delights of DanaHi everyone,<br />
<div><br />
</div><div>I would like to share this with all of you. My friend David M sent it to me via email, and it's a great piece of teaching. Even though this piece of teaching comes from a Buddhist monk, but its origins are much profound and divine, and it transcends any religions or modern self-help techniques. To me, it is definitely one of the secrets to having a happy life.. to enable others to have the same.</div><div><br />
</div><div>So do enjoy reading this article, as much as I enjoy passing it to you.<br />
<div><blockquote type="cite"><div><div class="gmail_quote"><div style="font-family: 'times new roman', 'new york', times, serif; font-size: 12pt; word-wrap: break-word;"><div><div><blockquote type="cite"><div><span style="color: #663300;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #663300;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #663300;"><span style="font-size: large;"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">The Delights of Dana</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times; font-size: medium;"> </span></div></span></span></div></blockquote></div></div></div></div></div></blockquote><blockquote type="cite"><div><div class="gmail_quote"><div style="font-family: 'times new roman', 'new york', times, serif; font-size: 12pt; word-wrap: break-word;"><div><div><blockquote type="cite"><div><span style="color: #663300;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #663300;"><span style="font-size: large;"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">By Venerable Ajahn Pasanno</span></span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">On retreat a lot of emphasis is put on various insight practices, the goal and philosophy of meditation. We don’t think very much about the foundation that sustains the mind and the heart in a way that opens them to the way things truly are. Dana is that foundation.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Exactly what is dana? How do we cultivate this quality of giving, generosity, liberality and </span></span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">munificence? There are many different translations of the word dana. It is the quality of generosity that gives physically </span></span><i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">and</span></span></i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> from the heart. Hearts with dana are generous, open-handed, and liberal in terms of willingness to give, share, to be present and to help. All of those qualities take us away from </span></span><i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">me</span></span></i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> and </span></span><i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">my</span></span></i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">needs</span></span></i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">, </span></span><i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">me</span></span></i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> and </span></span><i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">my</span></span></i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">necessities, </span></span><i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">me</span></span></i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> and </span></span><i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">my</span></span></i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> demands, </span></span><i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">me</span></span></i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> and </span></span><i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">my</span></span></i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> expectations, </span></span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></span><i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">me</span></span></i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> and </span></span><i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">my</span></span></i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> essential fixed residence in the middle of the universe. That </span></span><i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">me</span></span></i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> and </span></span><i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">mine</span></span></i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> position which demands that we be recognized and noted for our importance, takes over everything. It all gets very tiring.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Ajahn Sumedho has said, “Whenever I think </span></span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">of myself I feel depressed.” It’s such a great line. When dana is the center of life, instead of </span></span><i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">me</span></span></i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> and </span></span><i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">my</span></span></i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> needs, there is no need to be depressed. There is relief and release rather than anxiety and obsession. Dana is a dramatically different focal point. The perspective changes to “What can I give?”</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">In </span></span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Thailand</span></span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">, generosity and giving are the first things you learn about Buddhism when you’re growing up. Pregnant women go to the temple, offer food and dedicate merit. “May my child be healthy and happy.” After birth, mothers continue to take their children to the temple, so giving becomes an integral part of their lives and continues through the lifespan.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> When children are little, they get up early with their family to make offerings to the monks on alms rounds. Even when they are quite young, children are encouraged to give. They don’t really know what they are doing because they’re only two or three years old or even younger. Someone helps the child put a spoonful of rice in the monk’s bowl. As the rice drops in the bowl, everyone claps and says “great.” Children get the idea, “wow, giving is good.” They grow up with that pleasant feeling associated with generosity. It’s very natural because there is a cultural value placed on generosity and sharing.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">It’s not just giving to monks and to the monastery that is part of the Thai culture. I noticed how natural it is for Thais to share. When we’d go to a dana, for a blessing ceremony in a village, we would usually be offered a Pepsi or Coke. After taking a few sips, we’d give the rest of bottle to one of the kids. Even if the child was little, he or she always shared it with friends. The adults do the same. The kids see generosity in their every day lives, so it gets reinforced. To grab the bottle, go off in the corner and gulp it down on your own doesn’t really happen. The impulse is to share and to experience the joy and happiness that comes from generosity. As a result, a special sense of connection is created and sustained. </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">A lot of the separation and isolation in Western society is not just because Westerners tend to have so many psychological problems. The basic values in the West are not oriented toward sharing or giving. There is an absence of habits and qualities which make a connection between people. It’s important to be attentive to that.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Just before coming into the hall I was telling Lance and Nick about going on alms round in the northeast of </span></span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Thailand</span></span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">. Even though the area is very poor, people share what they have. You can get some pretty strange foods but it’s what they eat, and it’s what they are willing to share. There is always enough in that sense. The perception of lack is oftentimes just a perception. Giving is not about resources and materials. In fact, you don’t need a lot in order to give. At the root of generosity is the perception that there is always something, and enough to share.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><span style="letter-spacing: -0.1pt;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">During one of the first years that we were</span></span></span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> establishing Wat Pah Nanachat, the forest monastery Ajahn Chah set up for foreigners, the villagers would come and help build the place and set things up. One of the main villagers who helped out said, “I really don’t have any money, but I’m not poor.” He was referring to the fact that poverty is a state of mind. It’s not about what we actually have in terms of material resources. Sometimes we have a lot but we feel it’s not enough so we have to protect what’s there. We don’t even think about sharing what we have. That’s a state of lack and of being poor. On the other hand, giving and sharing come from a place of wealth. There is always enough.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">How does one measure what’s enough? Once again, that measurement is a state of mind. The desire mind never has enough. What you desire doesn’t really matter. Whether it is food, clothing, money or property, it’s never enough. That’s just the nature of desire. Its nature is to always be seeking more or something else. The quality of dana, of generosity cuts through that desire mind. It allows us to come to that place of openness and giving, the heart at ease because it has enough.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">There are many ways we can come to that place. We can work on generosity and learn to appreciate what it offers. We can consciously go against the desire mind by generating more generosity in our lives. We focus on turning to giving, relying on it, appreciating and delighting in it. In terms of practice, we cultivate and sustain generosity so that we don’t get pulled back into the desire mind or the mind of jealousy and comparison. It is so satisfying to feel there is enough and take joy and delight in that.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">The desire mind not only operates in wanting more material possessions, it operates in spiritual practice as well. When we’re meditating, do we ever feel there is enough concentration or enough peace? The desire mind seeks more concentration, more tranquility, more peacefulness, </span></span><i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">more</span></span></i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> whatever. When there is a lack of peacefulness, we feel we need more. The feeling is justified because the scriptures say there must be peaceful states of mind in order to have wisdom, for insight to arise. So we redouble our efforts to get </span></span><i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">more</span></span></i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> peace and the result is often frustration and misery. “Where is </span></span><i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">my</span></span></i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> peace of mind?”</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Similarly, when do we ever have enough wisdom? The desire mind also needs more wisdom, more refined insight into anicca, dukkha, anatta, so “</span></span><i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I</span></span></i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> can finally get rid of </span></span><i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">my</span></span></i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> defilements and experience freedom.” There is no end to the desire mind, needing more, getting more or having to have. Ajahn Chah described the mind and heart of tanha, as the mouth that never closes. The desire mind goes around with an open mouth looking to consume and gather things in. You can actually feel that in your mind. It is the feeling of leaning towards things, on the lookout for the next thing to consume, possess and experience. It’s not a restful place at all.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Generosity is the opposite of this misery. </span></span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Giving provides a base of contentment, joy and </span></span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">delight. A few years ago, we put a little notice in the Abhayagiri newsletter before I went to </span></span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Thailand</span></span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">. We announced that there is a tradition of offering gold, silver, jewelry and other valuables to melt down and put into the Buddha image. And since we were pouring a Buddha image for the monastery, we wanted the community to know about this opportunity to make offerings. From a completely materialistic, practical, utilitarian perspective, it’s really stupid to do this. What a waste. From the perspective of generosity, it’s a wonderful thing to do. To give something of value that’s put into an object of reverence and devotion is very precious and delightful. We received packages from all over the States. In some cases, we couldn’t figure out how some people heard about what we were doing. Even a Christian monk sent things for us. People not only sent jewelry, someone sent gold teeth! I ended up carrying almost 8 pounds of gold and silver to </span></span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Thailand</span></span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">. Explaining to customs officials and security guards why I had all of this was quite interesting.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">At the actual ceremony, even more valuables were offered. It is hard to say exactly how much more. Those who were there said it was a lot. The day of the Buddha pouring was steeped in goodness and generosity. About a thousand people were present. There was such excitement that a Buddha image was being made and then shipped to </span></span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">America</span></span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">. People came to create goodness together which ultimately turned into a physical form that would be present in the world. Giving and delight lays a foundation. It’s the entry point into the Dhamma, before virtue, precepts and meditation. This is how Buddhism is taught in </span></span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Thailand</span></span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> and in other Buddhist cultures. Generosity is the foundation, the place from which we begin the practice.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">In the West, we start by learning how to </span></span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">meditate and after a while we think maybe “I’d better get some Precepts.” Then toward the end, especially at the end of a 10 day retreat, generosity and dana are mentioned. Actually, it doesn’t really matter when we pick it up. It is a matter of realizing that generosity is the foundation of the heart that feels free and unencumbered. One of the doorways out of suffering is generosity. As I said earlier, it’s important to realize that’s it’s not just about material giving. It also involves service and keeping ones eyes open for what needs to be done and asking “How can I help? Who is in need of assistance?”</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">There is a lot of weight given to individualism and self-sufficiency in the West. We shrink back from helping each other. But of course, nothing is absolutely black or white. For example, Thai and Western children are treated and raised very differently. I oftentimes tease Thais about this. I remember seeing my sister’s tiny children holding a spoon and going after their food with gusto. Before they learn to speak, they learn to use a spoon to get food into their mouths. In </span></span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Thailand</span></span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">, you see six year old kids wandering around with a nanny or their mother trailing behind trying to feed them with a spoon. The kids haven’t figured out how to feed themselves yet.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">In order to feel comfortable helping others, </span></span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">we have to leap over the hurdle of self, of </span></span><i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">me</span></span></i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> and </span></span><i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">mine</span></span></i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">. We put ourselves in a vulnerable position by helping others; it can be frightening or trigger our vulnerability. Acts of service invite us to step out of the boundaries that we set up for ourselves. Whenever those boundaries are jostled in any way, we feel uncomfortable or threatened. These boundaries are totally conditioned and part of the conventional realm. We need to be able to consciously stretch our boundaries from time to time. Helping others and offering service are ways of stepping beyond the boundaries of our imaginary self. This gives us a lot of confidence in negotiating the human realm instead of getting bogged down in the protected areas of our being that are easily threatened. A sense of ease and well-being in any situation is one of the best gifts we can offer to ourselves and to others.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;"><i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Abhaya</span></span></i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">dana is another traditional way of </span></span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">giving dana. </span></span><i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Abhaya</span></span></i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">is part of the name </span></span><i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Abhaya</span></span></i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">giri</span></span><i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">. </span></span></i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">In Thai, abhaya is usually translated as forgiveness. We give forgiveness by not holding a grudge, ill-will or aversion. This kind of giving is considered a higher form of dana than material giving because it is a lot harder to forgive than it is to give material things.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> Opening the heart to forgiveness, kindness and acceptance are really quite exalted states of mind. A lot of joy enters the heart when forgiveness is cultivated. It becomes second nature. And even if one can’t offer forgiveness, at least there is recognition, “That’s a good thing to do. I’ve got to figure out a way to open my heart to this person who really bugs me.”</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Fearless</span></span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Mountain</span></span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> is the English translation of the name Abhayagiri. This fearlessness is an offering of security and trust when actions are motivated by goodness, generosity and virtue. We are not threatened, nor are we threatening. We don’t generate fear and suspicion. We feel at ease and secure with any one. To be able to consistently live this way and give that to other human beings is a wonderful gift. As we continue to practice and the mind becomes increasingly aware of what motivates us, we can see how much fear we carry. If we act this out, the human realm ends up filled with fear, competition and about getting what one can in a “dog eat dog” kind of way. </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">In </span></span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Thailand</span></span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> dogs are not treated like they are in the West. In one monastery where I lived, all of the leftovers were mixed together and then put in a tire which had been cut in half. Even though there was plenty of room for all of the dogs to eat, there was fighting, biting and chaos everyday. Every dog was out to get the most. The mind that is in a competitive fear realm is always worrying about getting “enough.” It’s a miserable state of mind. Our commitment is to create a human realm from within based on dana, trust and truth.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">There’s an old story about the difference between heaven and hell. The hell realms are filled with people who sit at long banquet tables piled high with all sorts of delicious foods and drinks. But everyone is completely miserable and hungry, because the utensils are too long to maneuver. No matter how hard they try, they can’t put the food in their mouths. The nourishment is there, but nobody can get to it. The heavenly realm is the same: the tables are laden with the same delicious food and with the identical utensils that look impossible to maneuver. But the people are happy and bright because they are using the utensils to feed one another. There is no hunger or frustration, only fullness and well-being, within the identical conditions. Giving and sharing is what turns a hell realm into a heavenly one. There is a sense of security and trust that people are there to help one another, which is why abhayadana is a higher form of dana. With practice and spiritual maturity, different forms of dana become integrated and ultimately, inform each other.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">The highest form of dana is </span></span><i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Dhamma</span></span></i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">dana, which means the giving of Dhamma and of the teachings. Traditionally, making teachings available to others by helping to print Dhamma books is one of the highest forms of giving. There are many other ways that Dhammadana can be offered in daily life. People think they need to be a monastic or an Ajahn to give teachings. But this is not so. Any kind of advice that is grounded in Right View and Right Understanding that is given with an open heart and good intentions is Dhammadana.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">The offering of Dhammadana is so powerful that even if it’s ignored or trashed, it is still the highest form of dana. Dhamma books used as doorstops or coasters cannot destroy or diminish this pure and priceless gift.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Ajahn Chah encouraged people to share their experiences. They didn’t have to be anything exalted or obtuse. Helping people be more at ease and to suffer less was one of his basic teachings. In fact, Ajahn Chah said that to practice Dhammadana, you didn’t have to teach or to say anything at all. “It’s enough to set good examples and follow the Precepts.”</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> Ajahn Chah frequently referred to Sariputta’s introduction to the Buddha’s teaching. He emphasized the essence of the story to monks and to anybody who practiced Dhamma: the way we live gives more weight than spoken words. Sariputta became interested in the Holy Life when he saw one of the first disciples of the Buddha walking on alms-round. The dignity, composure and the clarity that was involved in the simple activity of walking inspired a lot of faith in Sariputta. He then requested teachings from this monk who humbly replied, “I’m newly ordained and don’t know much.” But Sariputta insisted on hearing the Dhamma from him. The monk, Assaji said, “All things that arise, arise from a cause, and all things end because the causes have ended.” Although he offered the gift of Dhamma through words and deeds, it was the monk’s noble presence that first inspired Sariputta. So Ajahn Chah always reminded us that actions speak louder than words. </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Parents often asked Ajahn Chah what they should teach their children. Ajahn Chah would turn the question right back to the parents. “It doesn’t matter what </span></span><i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I</span></span></i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> say, what do </span></span><i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">you</span></span></i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> say? What do</span></span><i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">you</span></span></i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> do?” If there is a tree way over there and a tree close by and a vine starts growing which tree will it climb? The closest one, of course. It’s the same with parents. Their example has a bigger effect than anyone else. The examples we set in the monastery, within society or within families are all aspects of Dhammadana. The gift of giving virtuous conduct and of living a life with Dhamma at its center has an extraordinarily powerful effect.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">When you think of the people who have had the biggest positive impact in our life, they embody integrity in some way. It’s not because of the kind of cars they own or the vacations they’ve taken. We value them because they have been trustworthy, kind and patient with us. They’ve made us feel good, no matter how badly we feel about ourselves. This kind of giving is not beyond the capacity of anybody. Increasing well-being and decreasing dukkha are gifts we can all give.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Generosity feeds and flows into everything we do. We can even bring an attitude of sharing into our meditation practice while sitting alone in our kutis. Meditation is not just about </span></span><i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">me</span></span></i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">. Sharing it with those we care about and with all beings has a different effect. This kind of giving transforms the heart by taking us out of the capsule of self and of </span></span><i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">me</span></span></i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">. We quickly realize that the </span></span><i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">me</span></span></i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> and </span></span><i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">mine</span></span></i><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">universe is terribly cramped and crowded. When we can turn our attention to the world that is outside of that, we realize the world is spacious and expansive. There are so many opportunities for sharing, giving, and for living in accordance with Dhamma. Embracing these opportunities allows petty concerns and ways we perpetuate suffering to drop away.</span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I offer these reflections to you this evening.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">This talk is taken from the book</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">A Dhamma Compass</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">B</span></span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">y Ajahn Pasanno</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Abbot of Abhayagiri Buddhist Monastery</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">16201 Tomki Road</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Redwood Valley</span></span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">, </span></span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">CA</span></span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">95470</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">USA</span></span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">, </span><span class="gc-cs-link" id="gc-number-2" style="color: #0033bb; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: underline;" title="Call with Google Voice"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="gc-cs-link" id="gc-number-9" title="Call with Google Voice">(707) 485-1630</span></span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.abhayagiri.org/" style="color: #114170;" target="_blank"></a></span><a href="http://www.abhayagiri.org/" style="color: #114170;" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">www.abhayagiri.org</span></a></span></div></span></span></div></blockquote></div></div></div></div></div></blockquote><br />
</div></div>Julianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00816420993104386717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7933023.post-59893999826946241042010-08-29T11:10:00.001+08:002010-08-29T11:10:23.089+08:00Charlie Parker Jazz Fest @ Marcus Garvey Park<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Hello peepz,</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span> </span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I just got back not long ago from Marcus Garvey Park up on East 124th St in Harlem, where the Summerstage Charlie Parker Jazz Festival took place. It's an annual event organized by City Parks Foundation, in tribute to Charlie Parker.. and this year it's also held in conjunction with the birthdays of Charlie Parker and Lester Young.. two great saxophone players that revolutionized the voice of the saxophone and jazz.</span></span><br />
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</span> </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">This free concert had three acts - Revive Da Live, JD Allen Trio, Jason Moran and the Bandwagon, and finally the headline of the evening, the great McCoy Tyner!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span> </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I only managed to get there in time to watch the start of JD Allen Trio's set (Revive Da Live was the first band to play), and like the set I watched once in Fat Cat, JD's trio was a powerhouse trio in his own right, calling upon some of the greatest tenor saxophone influences, such as Sonny Rollins as well as John Coltrane. What was amazing was that JD didn't even stop to talk, but segued from one piece to the next, and he doesn't seem to run out of energy even after all that (virtually non-stop) playing! This is what one would describe as "letting the music speak for itself". Being a saxophone trio, one cannot help but expect a somewhat evocative spiritual trio sound, very much in the vein of Coltrane, and perhaps some of the later tenor sax greats such as David S. Ware, David Murray, etc. The approach focus seemed less on trying to give out as much jazz vocabulary, but more on spontaneity, melodic and rhythmic intensity, expression based on color and shapes, as well as group dialogue. Since there was no verbal interaction with the audience, no one would know what tunes JD played, leaving us to immerse one's self in the heat of the summer sun, and the evocative nature of the music, which seemed adequate anyhow.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span> </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">The second band to play was pianist Jason Moran, and his Bandwagon, with Tarus Mateen on electric bass and Nasheet Waits on drums! This is one of the few times I actually get to see a piano trio with electric bass. It's unusual, I think, but in this case, it was more than an exception! The nature of Moran's playing and his music, seemed to allow non-acoustic temperament of the electric bass to enhance the sound of the trio. Of course, it's done with absolute taste by Tarus Mateen, who used it the way it should in this set up. It's my first time watching Nasheet Waits play, and boy was I in for a treat. How I would describe it? Amazingly tasteful! Rhythmic complexity and flexibility is a given, as that is Moran's style from the little I've heard of Moran's music. But all done with great taste and precision. This show he did something interesting, by inserting a full audio sample of recorded jazz standards of old, and had the band play along with it. In one song, he basically played back the track of Eddie Jefferson singing the vocalese version of Coleman Hawkin's solo of Body & Soul, and the band basically played over it, like they were the musicians on that record date, but in a contemporary fashion! This was my first time watching piano powerhouse Jason Moran live, and I hope it won't be the last!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span> </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">The highlight of the evening was the solo piano performance of the great Mr. McCoy Tyner. Before Mr. Tyner even played a single note on the piano, everyone was already standing in ovation, cheering for the legend that he is. Mr. Tyner performed a bunch of originals such as Fly With The Wind, and also Blues on the Corner, and even played his former saxophonist bandleader's original, Mr. PC. From this performance, one could already see the effects of old age, in Mr. Tyner's playing.. he hardly played anything at breakneck tempos, and that is to be expected... but the intensity and the soulfulness that shone brighter than the evening sun nevertheless maintained in his playing. Oh what a blessing it was to be able to catch one performance by this jazz and piano legend!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span> </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Tomorrow's concert (Sunday 29/8) will be at Tompkins Square Park. Not entirely sure if I'll be able to catch that one. But if I do, I'll try to write about it.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span> </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Later, y'all.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span> </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">JC</span></span></div>Julianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00816420993104386717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7933023.post-44115942679209997952010-08-23T14:10:00.002+08:002010-08-23T14:44:43.175+08:00Back in NYC, again...and a summary of summer! Part One.<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"></span><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"></span><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"></span><br />
<div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Hello again,</span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I guess I can get the first prize for being a blog-slacker, no? LOL! Well, all with good reason. As the title of this post suggests, I'm back again in the Big Apple. My last post was basically about my graduation, and basically the end of my school life.. officially, at least.</span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Since my last post, I had been busy hanging out with my folks during their stay in New York, then flew back to Malaysia for 2.5 months for the summer break, and now I'm back here in NYC, again. And of course, my pilgrimage home was well-needed one, and it was not without its interesting slew of events and experiences! But I was most pleased that I got more time to spend with my folks and with my friends, although I wished that I had more... LOL! At least I don't hear my mom complaining too much this time 'round!</span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">So here's a little summary of my summer break music events:</span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>June 2010:</b></span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><u>MPO Happy Hour - "The Duke Live in KL"</u></b></span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">A performance of Duke Ellington's small group works led by MPO co-principal trombonist Marques Young. This ensemble featured Marques, myself on saxophone, John Thomas (drums), Gabriel Evens (piano), and Fly (bass) featuring guest artistes Elvira Arul (vocals), Scott Thimble (tuba) and Yow Weng Wai (alto sax). This was my debut performance in Malaysia's prestigious Philharmonic Hall, so it was quite a thrill and a small dream realized. We performed pieces such as <i>Cottontail, In A Sentimental Mood, Take The A Train, C Jam Blues, Just Squeeze Me, </i>and some others.</span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><u><b>MPYO Plays Jazz (featuring Fritz Renold & The Bostonian Friends, and the Encounter Jazz Programme)</b></u></span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
This was definitely one of the most interesting shows I've done in a while, and also during this summer break. I was enlisted to join the Encounter Jazz Programme (a side project of the M'sian Philharmonic Orchestra, led by MPO co-principal trombonist Marques Young), to be part of the Malaysian Philharmonic Youth Orchestra (MPYO) along with Swiss saxophonist/composer/arranger Fritz Renold and his group, The Bostonian Friends. The Bostonian Friends consists of Randy Brecker (trumpet), Christian Jacob (piano), Reggie Hamilton (bass), Danny Gottlieb (drums) and Steve Reid (lead trumpet). What a splendid line-up, and a dream come true for some of us jazz cats from half the world away!</span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">After a one-and-a-half-weeks rehearsal session (one week for the EJP and the Bostonian Friends), we played at the Petronas Philharmonic Hall for two nights, presenting 3 suites: Fritz Renold's 5-movement <i>Nusantara Suite</i> (a world-premiere performance), and two Duke Ellington tone poems - <i>Night Creatures</i> and <i>Harlem</i>. This concert was definitely one of the most challenging musical performance that I've done to date, playing a world premiere piece (the music was VERY challenging, to say the least!), and also trying to call the spirit of alto sax master Johnny Hodges in the Ellington pieces. But it was an amazing and unforgettable experience, having to play great music, as well as being on the same stage with jazz greats!</span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>July 2010:</b></span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><u><b>Claude Diallo Situation Live @ No Black Tie</b></u></span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">An amazing trio from Switzerland and France! Pianist Claude Diallo is a fellow Queens College coursemate, who graduated the semester I first got into QC. Oddly enough we never really played together (except once when I was subbing another friend for a recital rehearsal, and a big band reading) until this two-night performance at KL jazz club No Black Tie. Playing with Claude was bassist Laurent Salzard and drummer Massimo Buonanno. They stayed over for the weekend and we played a lot of Claude's original compositions and arrangements and a few jazz standards.. and it was also an exciting and challenging musical experience for me, like I would always tell some of my Malaysian musician close friends: I'm totally spoiled with playing with seriously good rhythm section musicians in the US! And needless to say, a visit to Malaysia would not be a good one without the Malaysian hospitality, we got to hang out and have some awesome Malaysian food! Nothing beats the real thing!</span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><u><b>Junji Delfino's 50th Year Celebration Concert and "HERE I AM" Album Launch</b></u></span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">This event was a double landmark for jazz songstress Junji "Jazzmamma" Delfino. It's her 50th year of life, and also the release of her <i>debut</i> solo album "HERE I AM".</span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Junji booked me to play this concert with her, along with some of her closest friends and music colleagues - her husband and Malaysian jazz piano luminary <b>David Gomes</b>, another Malaysian jazz legend/pianist <b>Michael Veerapen</b>, guitarist <b>Jordan Rivers</b>, and the juniors <b>Hiro Maekawa</b> on bass, <b>Steve Nanda</b> on drums, <b>Eddie Wen</b> on trumpet/flugelhorn, and myself on saxophones. Guest appearances include <b>Edwin Sumun</b> (with his alter-ego SHELAH on one of the shows), Instant Cafe Theatre founder comedienne <b>Jo Kukathas</b>, the "voice of Malaysia" <b>Patrick Teoh</b>, veteran songstress (and one of my musical "mamas") <b>Salamiah Hassan</b>, and up-and-coming young stand-up comedian <b>Kuah Jenhan</b>.</span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">This three-nights concert was one of the most emotional concerts I've ever done, I have to say... and I really seldom get something like that. I guess this was more than just an ordinary concert, it was a celebration of life... and it was with a group of people I would also consider as a second family. Of course, the music also spoke for itself, and Junji definitely shone all three nights, and I was proud and blessed to be part of it.</span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>PS: Just a plug.. <b>GET THE ALBUM</b>, it's a truly beautiful album! Send an email to Junji Delfino by clicking <a href="mailto:junjidelfino@gmail.com">here</a>, or on her <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Junji-Delfino/136207326410657?ref=sgm">Facebook</a> public page to request an order from her.</i></span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">August 2010:</span></b></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><u><b><span style="font-size: small;">Fung Chern Hwei "From The Heart" CD Release @ No Black Tie</span></b></u></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">This was also another musical highlight for me. This is my 'gugu' brother, violinist/composer Fung Chern Hwei's debut CD release, called "FROM THE HEART". We recorded this in mid-December 2009, and I played three tracks on it, as well as co-produced it. My being a producer was a rather incidental occurence, but nevertheless, I took it on like it would be my own personal project. As such, it was also a labour of love on my part as well, and I am blessed and proud to be part of this. This album consist of five piano duo tracks (with Chern Hwei and Francesca Han on piano), two jazz ensemble tracks (with the addition of myself on saxophones, Jeremy Harman on cello, and Jens Ellerhold on drums), and one classical quartet piece (with Chern Hwei, myself, Francesca, and Jeremy) - a Robert Schumann piece <i>Andante Cantabile</i> re-arranged by Chern Hwei. With exception of the Schumann piece, everything else were original compositions by Chern Hwei and one original by Francesca.</span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The CD release concert at No Black Tie featured Chern Hwei, myself, the inimitably tasteful Justin Lim on piano (one of the best musical pianists in Malaysia, if not the best), John Thomas on drums, Fly on double bass, and featuring Elizabeth Tan on cello. It was probably also my first performance playing a classical piece, as we also played the Schumann piece we recorded! Definitely a memorable musical highlight of the summer.</span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>PS: Another plug... if you're interested in getting Fung Chern Hwei "FROM THE HEART" CD, send Chern Hwei an email <a href="mailto:pageshadow@gmail.com">here</a>! Do get it, it's an amazing album, that showcases a truly Malaysian talent!</i></span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">That's it for now, stay tuned for the second instalment of my summer break.</span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Part Two.. coming soon!</span></div>Julianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00816420993104386717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7933023.post-43530062811973130312010-05-28T05:02:00.000+08:002010-05-28T05:02:41.158+08:00GraduationThat's it.. I'm officially done.<br />
<br />
I just got back from my graduation commencement at Queens College, and I'm happy to announce that I am officially a Master of Arts (although I'm really.... REALLY.... far from being a <i>real</i> master!). It only felt like not long ago I had just come to New York, and to Queens College to study with not only great teachers, but also with great people in the school. I know that for a lot of us who live half the planet away, to be able to study with people that we want to study with badly is one heck of a big dream. For some, that dream does come true, and I must say that was the case for me. And I'm so eternally grateful for that opportunity.<br />
<br />
I had a blast studying in QC, and to say I have learnt a lot is both and under-and-over-statement. There's so much I've gained from my short time here, but there's so much TO learn that I know I've not learned enough. And I've not yet fully applied what I got to learn to the best I can (yet!). Well, I'm definitely gonna take advantage of the extra time I have to get some more knowledge, and learn to apply them!<br />
<br />
One of the biggest thing about what I enjoyed about QC is getting to know a lot of cool cats, and they come from ALL over the world...and that is NOT an overstatement. I was tempted to name everyone (or at least as far as I can remember) but I don't think I will.. I'm still a lazy person at heart! LOL!<br />
<br />
But I'd like to extend my congratulations to the graduating class (of the Masters Jazz program) of 2010.. I'm so happy to be able to join you guys and gals in this momentous occasion!<br />
<br />
<b>CONGRATULATIONS</b> to Rafal Sarnecki, Willie Harvey, Eric Teichman, Anthony Vanacore, Spiro Sinigos, Eun-jin Lee, Le Zhang, Dean Sagafiez, Keith Yaun, Carlos Mena, Janis Goerlich, Masayuki Negoro, Jungmin Lee, C.J. Glass, Ryan Weisheit, Adia Leadbetter, Majid Khaliq, Trevor Long, Lola Danza, and Russ Flynn! I hope I didn't miss anyone out...<br />
<br />
... and good luck!<br />
<br />
JCJulianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00816420993104386717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7933023.post-78331446690165689542010-05-07T07:12:00.000+08:002010-05-07T07:12:22.344+08:00Recital is DONE!!<div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">It's done... over! I've finally finished my graduation recital!!</div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzNPkEHrgIn32vEIzzpLuGLq3Qd00AAYsTssmN6FaHLbIJ3-8CD3B6RB6tF2P3Uoi-jzu5t_PABGwg_Y7tMzEqBY_6YFgvyoyUWJVDyfDimQTllggqTFp9HbrjFr6m9VquXDTlpA/s1600/julian-chan-saxophone-flute+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzNPkEHrgIn32vEIzzpLuGLq3Qd00AAYsTssmN6FaHLbIJ3-8CD3B6RB6tF2P3Uoi-jzu5t_PABGwg_Y7tMzEqBY_6YFgvyoyUWJVDyfDimQTllggqTFp9HbrjFr6m9VquXDTlpA/s320/julian-chan-saxophone-flute+copy.jpg" width="187" /></a></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Well, I'm not going to do a post-mortem of it.. well, not right now anyway (my dad took videos, so if it's good I'll post it up youtube, if not, it's going into my archives! LOL!). I'm not sure how it went really, but I had a great time playing, anyhow. It was a thrill no doubt.</div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">But I'd like to take this opportunity to give thanks to a few important people, not just for the recital, but for a whole lot of other things that made my New York experience a special one:</div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> My parents - for their unending support, love and guidance! No words can express my gratitude for you.</div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">My professors - Pr. Antonio Hart, Pr. Michael Mossman, Pr. Howard Brofsky, Pr. David Berkman. Your guidance, knowledge, wisdom, and friendship is something I don't think I could get anywhere else. I feel eternally blessed that I've been given the opportunity to study with all of you, there is no replacement for the experience I've had with all of you! There are lots more to learn, and I hope I can still continue to learn from you, even after graduation.</div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">My teachers/seniors back in Malaysia: Greg Lyons, Thomas Theseira, David Gomes, Junji Delfino, Michael Veerapen, Jose Thomas, Farid Ali, Mac Chew, and many others. Thanks for giving me a big head start on something that I wouldn't have thought I had any chance or talent to be in. Your friendship and guidance is also something that could not be replace by anything in this world.</div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">All my Malaysian mates, both musicians and non-musicians - your support, friendship, and talent is something which has lighted my way in more ways than one. You all are part of who I am today.</div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">My QC mates - thanks for your friendship, and your musical knowledge! I've learnt so much from playing and hanging out with of you! Looking forward for more!!</div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Fung Chern Hwei - thanks brother... 'nuff said! "Raisins"? ;)</div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">My bandmates for my recital: Jens Ellerhold, Michelle Marie, Ayako Sato, Rozhan Razman, Carlos Mena, Fung Chern Hwei, Yu-Chen Han, Chi-Jui Lee, Muneyoshi Takahashi, Rob Mosher, Jackson Hardaker, Sengkook Ha - Thanks for making it happen!! Whatever happened (or didn't happen) in the recital, it doesn't matter.. I just hoped you guys had fun as much as I did! BIG THANKS!!</div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I'm DONE!!</div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">WOOOHOOO!!!</div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Now, the future beckons...</div>Julianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00816420993104386717noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7933023.post-81426973975550811322010-04-22T02:56:00.002+08:002010-04-22T03:20:53.336+08:00Major neglect...!!<span style="font-family: georgia;">I can't believe how much I've neglected this blog. I guess with Facebook and Twitter and whatsnot.. I guess it's almost inevitable blogging might face a downturn in activity, or at least in my case. I know there have been readers of my blog (including my parents) that I would've updated it more often, so to you all, I offer my sincerest apologies.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;">It's 4 months close to a year since I last posted something here.. that's a pretty long hiatus, I must say. The longest I've ever really taken on my blog. To cut to the chase, I've just been pretty involved with music and school here in New York, and since it's much faster to be networking around on Facebook/Twitter, most of my networking activities have been scaled down to that. In effect, I think I probably have lost a lot of thoughts I could have written down for you to read, hopefully I may get some of them, and write down some new ones.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;">Anyway, to cut the big story short, this few weeks would be a pretty interesting juncture for me. As most of you know, I'm here in NYC studying for my Masters in Queens College. And guess what, after 2+ years being here... I'm graduating!!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;">YES... I'm graduating!! I'm almost done with school! But wait.. it almost feels like I just got here! I bet a lot of you may have a similar kind of feeling for different or similar situations.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;">Well, I've got a lot of thoughts.. some of you say I may be thinking too much.. yeah, I am, can't help it. Anyhow, the interesting thing is that after my graduation, real life begins.. both musical and personal. I'm really intrigued, excited, and scared to see where I'll be heading the next few years. Interestingly, I am unable to see what's ahead... I used to be able to, at least while I was still in Malaysia. I was able to more-or-less know where I'm gonna head (question is always WHEN). But this time, I just could not. It's like standing on a cliff, with fog all around.. no turning back.. only forward. I definitely will jump... but where will I end up?</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;">I had an interesting conversation with a good friend, who is also very spiritual, and he made an interesting observation about those thoughts I've had - Malaysia is so small, that I could see pretty much all possibilities. But now that I'm out here, in the big ocean, and it's fogged up, it's quite intimidating nonetheless. I still got to move on... so yeah... time to move on!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;">I'll be performing my graduation recital in 2 weeks, I'm looking forward to it. But it's also been pretty busy trying to prepare for it, too. I pray that I'll do well at it.. and I'll put in my best. That's always been my motto... although I always feel I never put in enough.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;">I hope to be able to write up here more, too.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;">Till next time.. look forward to hear from any of you, any thoughts to share.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;">Thanks.</span>Julianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00816420993104386717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7933023.post-44739919178623754242009-09-05T14:18:00.003+08:002009-09-05T14:30:12.971+08:00Back In NYC...After a loooonnnnggg flight, I'm finally back in New York City.<br /><br />It had been quite an interesting summer back in Malaysia, played a lot of gigs, ATE a lot of food, and met a few people. I guess my one regret is that I didn't get to spend as much time with the folks as I should have. Booked myself silly.. not necessarily the best idea. Probably won't try booking myself too much the next time around, and maybe will get the chill a little.<br /><br />Flight to New York was much longer this time.. just because I had to take China Airlines. Flight to Taipei for transit was cool, although in-flight entertainment was rather limited, we got our own screens, but no on-demand. Then had to stay in Taipei overnight, which was alright, as I got to catch up with some old friends who were staying there now, and of course, ate a lot! Then from Taipei we actually flew to Anchorage instead (this wasn't in the itinerary), and the food wasn't as good, and the in-flight entertainment was worse. A general TV screen for everyone, and you can't even choose your channel(!).. dang!! Oh yeah.. I tried to ask for an aisle seat, but couldn't, only got window seat. But what was NOT cool was that I got seated NEXT to the emergency exit, which meant smaller leg space! Blardy hell.<br /><br />Anchorage, in ALASKA (yes I finally got a small taste of Alaska!) was a short stop, got to see some nice mountain-top view (will post pics later), and also did the immigration there instead of JFK. So Anchorage turned out to be a domestic transit, so that was a good thing. But plane still sucked.<br /><br />Now, I'm back sitting on my bed in my rented room in this house in Jackson Heights.. and it's back to my other 'life' now.<br /><br />Welcome back Jules, to NYC! *and why the hell am I talking to myself?*<br /><br />Time to get workin'..<br /><br />Later.Julianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00816420993104386717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7933023.post-23973876057932919482009-08-12T00:48:00.002+08:002009-08-12T00:55:21.751+08:00Last summer shows!Man.. time flies like a Japanese bullet train. It wasn't long ago, that I am back for summer holidays, and now the holidays are almost over. I had a lot of fun (and not-so-fun stuff, too) while I was back here. A lot of things transpired this past three months that have had a great effect on me. And I was working a lot.. like crazy actually! The moment I got home, I was already out for rehearsals for the WVC Trio + 1 concerts (and album recording), and trying to fight off jetlag at the same time... and everything else after that.<br /><br />Anyway, I just wanted to update my last few shows before I fly off back to New York for another (almost) full year to finish my studies:<br /><br />14 - 15 Aug (Fri & Sat, 10:30pm, free admission) : <span style="font-weight: bold;">The Q Sound </span>@ Alexis Bistro, Ampang<br /><br />28 - 29 Aug (Fri & Sat, 10:30pm, free admission) : <span style="font-weight: bold;">The Julian Chan Quartet</span> @ Alexis Bistro, Ampang.<br /><br />That's it for the summer break.. wasn't much of a break, really.. but I definitely had fun being back home in my comfortable bed, with home-cooked food, and simply just Malaysian food! Woooohhhh!!<br /><br />Anyway, hope to catch you at the shows. Do come by and say hi. I may look like I will eat you, but I'm a big soft cuddly person inside (puts on Shrek's Puss in Boots beady cat eye looks!). ;)<br /><br />Later!<br /><br />JCJulianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00816420993104386717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7933023.post-40335628564477911832009-07-29T12:54:00.002+08:002009-07-29T13:01:11.787+08:00Malaysian road users..... can be a real stupid lot (myself not excluded) sometimes.<br /><br />Here I was walking back to my car in this small town road in Kajang, and there was traffic halt from stopping at the red light.. that's normal. Then I heard an ambulance siren going off like nobody's business.. and guess what?<br /><br />No one's moving.<br /><br />There's plenty of room to move aside for some of them, but do they move? NoooOOoooOo...<br /><br />It only takes one person to move, and enable others to move as well. Civic-mindedness my butt. Oh wait, do they still teach that in school these days? Or don't they know what it is anymore? See, Education Minister.. having Moral Education is a waste of money and resources. And here you guys are squirming your heads around teaching subjects in English or Malay (I know.. no relation, since it's Science and Maths). Teaching something well is the main priority. Obviously the education system here fails in that respect. Sorry to say. Ok, this has no relation to this post, but who cares, right?<br /><br />So yeah, back to road users. Imagine if one of your loved ones is the one who's in emergency, and you're not moving for the ambulance to move to pick him/her up. It's YOUR fault.. yes...<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">.... YOURS!</span><br /><br />Don't wait for other people to move. If you can do it first, then do it, dammit. You might save a life, or two.<br /><br />Peace.Julianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00816420993104386717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7933023.post-21723272836256922712009-07-27T11:34:00.003+08:002009-07-27T11:45:34.063+08:00WVC Trio + 1 latest album "ELEVEN" is out!!<span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Hi all,</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I'm proud to announce here that WVC Trio + 1's latest recording effort, "ELEVEN" is out! And I'm also proud to say that I'm grateful that I've been given an opportunity to be also a part of this effort, thanks to my band mates, Vincent Ong, Tay Cher Siang and Adam Osmianski.</span><br /><br /><a style="font-family: verdana;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinJj9rBGb4NI6ZANLjLSBKJoe5oLO90oR7pXj1RQTLW4tx1mLjZljWO5k2YcTpbhBphCUi-k5suHIPaWSQenr80DqtPVBz0I2lYj-Cl__CzVzjpLw6IMWZ1RBMuXMR0oescysaew/s1600-h/WVC+CD+Cover+Box+front+page.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 285px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinJj9rBGb4NI6ZANLjLSBKJoe5oLO90oR7pXj1RQTLW4tx1mLjZljWO5k2YcTpbhBphCUi-k5suHIPaWSQenr80DqtPVBz0I2lYj-Cl__CzVzjpLw6IMWZ1RBMuXMR0oescysaew/s320/WVC+CD+Cover+Box+front+page.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5362979291939858850" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">This CD features a fantastic line-up, a Malaysian-American connection, consisting of Tay Cher Siang (piano), Vincent Ong (bass), Adam Osmianski (drums), and myself on saxophones. All the tunes are original compositions from Cher Siang, Adam and Vincent. (NB: Next one I will definitely have at least one of mine in!)</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Here is the song list in the album:</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">1. The Art of the Wind-Up Alarm Clock</span><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">2. Hunger Strike</span><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">3. Standing in the Rain on Euclid Ave.</span><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">4. Little Steps</span><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">5. Merry Go 'Round</span><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">6. Caipifruta</span><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">7. Dawn</span><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">8. Cherish the Siamese Twins</span><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">9. Golden Monkey</span><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">10. Strollin' in One Town</span><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">11. Rhumba for a Sad Sad Witch</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">You can listen to some of the new compositions that are not included in the album from reverbnation.com. Here is the link:</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">http://www.reverbnation.com/wvctrio</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">You can get this CD at Rock Corner at Bangsar Village and One Utama, also Tower Records at Lot 10! Otherwise you can personally get it from me, by sending me an </span><a style="font-family: verdana;" href="mailto:jcsax78@gmail.com">email</a><span style="font-family: verdana;"> or giving me a call at +6012-2732378 (Malaysia) or +1-646-886-9688 (US, but only from September).</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Hope to hear from you!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Support Malaysian music!!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">JULIAN</span><br /></span>Julianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00816420993104386717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7933023.post-14991760363403617672009-07-26T13:46:00.002+08:002009-07-26T13:50:18.371+08:00Upcoming shows!Hi all,<br /><br />I know I haven't been really diligent in updating my blog.. truth be told... I got lazy, because I got too busy! LOL! Sorry, y'all.. but anyway, just to keep this blog rolling a bit, I've got some gig updates. Hope to see you at some of the shows this week!<br /><br />29/7 Michael Veerapen Quartet @ <a href="http://www.noblacktie.com.my">No Black Tie</a> 9.30pm<br /><br />30/7 John Thomas' Powderful Quartet @ <a href="http://www.groove-junctionkl.com">Groove Junction</a> 10pm<br /><br />31/7 & 1/8 Julian Chan's Boplicity @ <a href="http://www.alexis.com.my/html/content.php?id=140">Alexis Bistro and Wine Bar</a> 10.30pm<br /><br />More updates soon, so stay tuned!<br /><br />Remember, do drop by and say hi... and support Live Music & Jazz in Malaysia!Julianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00816420993104386717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7933023.post-46854120480763297622009-05-23T03:11:00.002+08:002009-05-23T03:29:02.784+08:00Summer break..<span style="font-family: lucida grande;">Hah, I can't believe the next post after my "Spring Break" post is my SUMMER BREAK post.. lol! Sorry </span><span style="font-style: italic; font-family: lucida grande;">lah</span><span style="font-family: lucida grande;"> damn kau busy here in school..</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: lucida grande;">Anyway, I'll be back in Malaysia for the summer again, and I can't wait for it too, in fact. One of the things I'm looking forward to is having the time to practice at home (where I can practice as loud and as long as I want! Muahaha!), hanging out with my family and my friends (who to me are family too!), go running, walking with my dogs, eat GREAT Malaysian food, and of course... PERFORMING! Hehe.. me being the stage whore I am, I've already worked out quite a few shows back in Kuala Lumpur, and also in some other parts of Malaysia too (stay tuned for that one!).</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: lucida grande;">Some of the highlights of my summer break performances will include some really kick-a$$ concerts:</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: lucida grande;">June 2 (Tues) WVC Trio + 1 Live at Pentas 1 (KLPac).</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: lucida grande;">July 2 - 4 (Fri - Sun) Inner Voices Production Presents - "Let's Go Mamak.. AGAIN!".</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: lucida grande;">July 9 - 10 (Thu - Fri) Barry Cooper Sextet @ Alexis Bistro</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: lucida grande;">..and a whole bunch of my favorite musicians at some of the different venues in Kuala Lumpur and other parts of Malaysia.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: lucida grande;">Most importantly, I look forward to getting together with my closest friends (of whom most of them are musicians too!) and hang out and make some music together.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: lucida grande;">Do stay tuned here, or join me on Tweeter, where you can keep track of what I'm doing as well.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: lucida grande;">So, to promote the first big concert I'm playing..</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-family: verdana;">WVC Trio + 1 @ KLPac Pentas 1.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">WVC TRiO +1 will present a full concert in KLPac covering varieties of styles and premiering many brand new original compositions penned by members of the group. Experience this vibrant and original concert on June 2nd 2009 Tuesday 8.30pm, at KL Pac only.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">WVC Trio + 1</span> is<br /><br />Tay Cher Siang - piano<br />Adam - drums<br />Vincent Ong - double bass<br /><br />and + 1 is Julian Chan on saxophones. ;)<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Location link:</span><br /><a style="font-family: verdana;" href="http://www.klpac.com/Welcome.asp?c=venuelocation" onmousedown="'UntrustedLink.bootstrap($(this)," target="_blank" rel="nofollow">http://www.klpac.com/Welcome.asp?c=venuelocation</a><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Call or email for concert passes.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Public RM40, Student RM35.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Contact:</span><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Cher Siang 017-3643202 jazzzzaj@gmail.com</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Adam 012-6040216</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Vincent 012-3909828 vincentgruvavenue@gmail.com </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Julian 012-2732378 / jcsax78@yahoo.com (after 28 May).</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Note: KLPac is not selling the tickets directly, so call us at the above details to directly get your tickets!<br /><br />Hope to see you there!<br /></span>Julianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00816420993104386717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7933023.post-56199230804882428932009-04-11T22:43:00.003+08:002009-04-11T23:28:34.842+08:00Spring break<span style="font-family: lucida grande;">Wow... talk about not updating my blog for ages.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: lucida grande;">Well, my apologies for that, really. That's how much stuff I have going right now, really.. until I really could not find the time to write. And that is a good thing, actually, from my standpoint. There's just so much stuff happening, and stuff I have to work on, that I can't spend time to blog. Anyway, it's spring break right now, so we've got a week and a half off from school. But if you're a music student, you'll know right away it's not really going to be a break at all. That's because a music student's (or a musician, really!) life is really music, music, and more music. For us, well, it's a lot more on trying to finish (or start) working on our assignments more than anything else. Practicing... well, that happens pretty much all the time, irregardless. But that's the life. Dig it, or find a new one.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: lucida grande;">Anyway, I suppose I should update about what's been happening since my last post.. which was Chinese New Year (lol!).</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: lucida grande;">One of the more significant things that has happened to me is the fact that I have experienced some breakthroughs, where my studies are concerned. All the stuff I've been learning for the past year, I am beginning to comprehend much more, than when I first came here (or even after the first year). I'm not sure how that worked, but I do know now that it did, and I'm so happy and thankful for that. Can't say it was an easy, bed-o-roses process though... been through some emotional and mental pitfalls along the way. To say the least, right now it's mostly down to just practicing the stuff, and getting it in my head and in my fingers. Of course, there's still so much stuff left, even after that... but I believe I'm learning to deal with it better now (I hope!). I feel so much more focused than before, and I basically understand what I have to work on for real, this time. I've got so much information that will basically last me a long while to practice.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: lucida grande;">For other stuff, well... probably one of the only thing(s) worth mentioning is that I did a gig in a real established jazz bar in NYC called 55 Bar late February. It's a small place (really small), but it's been around for a little bit. I think Mike Stern plays there on a fairly regular basis (I haven't seen him play there, though). I played there with a good friend of mine and Chern Hwei's, Michelle Marie, a guitarist. It was scary, as it was probably my first Manhattan gig, at an established jazz joint. Although for the moment, I don't mind being the sideman, first. LOL! I believe we will have another show there sometime late April... yee haa!!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: lucida grande;">Another interesting thing I managed to do was to watch Phil Woods play at Dizzy's Club Coca-cola at Jazz @ Lincoln Center. For those who don't know, Phil Woods is a legendary saxophone player, who in all our books, is considered up there along with the rest of the jazz legends. Mr. Woods is known by many to be a Charlie Parker "disciple" on the alto sax, and with what he has experienced, he may very well be. To cut the story short, Phil has met AND hung out with Bird in his younger days (and even let Bird play his horn). Of course, Mr.Woods' sound and approach to playing is a cumulative development of studying the various masters (Johnny Hodges, Benny Carter, etc) as well as an extension of his own personality.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: lucida grande;">Anyway, as for other stuff, well.. there's nothing really much happening, other than me just being in school practicing and working on some of the work, really. NY is too expensive to make it hip and happening for me. My life here (socially, at least) is probably less interesting than back home in Malaysia. Here, I'm just interested to study and work on my sh*t and expose myself to great music, and great musicians.. and make sure I learn my stuff, real good! I'll probably worry about the rest later.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: lucida grande;">Still miss Malaysian food, though.. the real deal, that is. Still prefer my share of banana leaf, thosai, and even good chinese (vegetarian) food, without busting a giant hole in my small wallet.<br /><br />I've started running a lot more now, and since I've already registered for the Standard Chartered KL Marathon 2009 for half distance (that's happening at the end of June), I've definitely started to train for it. So I can't wait till Spring clears up well, and good, and I'd get my butt out there running!<br /><br />I think that's it for now... will try to update more a little later, when I can.<br /><br />By the way, I'm back in KL from 28th May for summer holidays, and gigs galore! Can't wait...<br /><br />THOSAI!!!!!<br /><br />Ciao.<br /></span>Julianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00816420993104386717noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7933023.post-23399284050398154682009-01-27T14:42:00.002+08:002009-01-27T14:48:44.102+08:00Better late..<span style="font-family: lucida grande;">.. than never!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: lucida grande;">So..</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: lucida grande;">To everyone, Chinese and non-Chinese alike...</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);font-size:180%;" >新年快樂!!!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);font-size:130%;" >HAPPY CHINESE NEW YEAR EVERYONE!!!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Gong Xi Gong Xi!</span><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><span style="font-family: lucida grande;">I hope that this year will be a productive one, despite the predictions and all, in more ways than one. I also hope that above all else, health and family be the top priority on your list.. not just this year, but all the time.. and also the quest for spiritual enlightenment!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: lucida grande;">This will probably be my second CNY that I won't be home with family and friends, and it's this time I'm really feeling the pinch of not being there. But I feel my heart is closer now to those back home now, than it ever was.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: lucida grande;">Have a good one everyone!!</span><br /></div></div>Julianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00816420993104386717noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7933023.post-74375920650225110172009-01-21T02:00:00.002+08:002009-01-21T04:45:47.684+08:00Congratulations PRESIDENT OBAMA!As I'm writing this, I'm logged into CNN.com watching what was the Inauguration of the 44th President of the USA, President Barack Hussein Obama.<br /><br />This has been quite a historic moment for the US, as well as the world, as President Obama is the first ever African-American President of the United States. The moments leading to his success in the election was long and hard, but all worth it. Unfortunately I missed the announcement of the presidential election (I was stuck in the 7 train on the way back home). But of course, notice of his success in the election did not fall short to my ears...one of the train supervisors, a black lady, was basically screaming in happiness while making train stop announcements on the PA in the train! But one thing was certain, I felt thankful that I am in the US during this historical moment in world history.<br /><br />But thanks to CNN.com along with Facebook, a lot of people in the US, as well as all over the world was given the opportunity to watch the Inauguration, so it was quite a blast. At the same time, you've got friends on FB logged in watching the inauguration, and leaving comments on status updates, etc. Quite something I tell ya.. if you missed it.. SOOOO too bad for ya. LOL! By the way, you can check out President Obama's inauguration speech at CNN.com, so do check it out if you missed it. It was really inspiring.<br /><br />Anyway, on a more serious note, we just have to pray this will bring some change to the US as well as the world, with President Obama on the helm. God knows, they need it! When you learn about some of the problems here in the US, you can't help thinking how difficult it is being here, and trying to survive here. It's not easy. All the points that President Obama mentioned in his speech, problems in key areas in the social level in America, such as poor medical care, welfare, etc, are all real. In New York, it's even more apparent. Unless you have money to afford medical insurance, one cannot afford to get sick here, or else you'd pay a bomb for getting medical treatment. And something as simple as just a little jab for cold could cost you hundreds of dollars!<br /><br />In many ways, I'm actually pretty grateful about my own country Malaysia, despite whatever is happening now on the political front. It has been relatively peaceful and stable (well, not so much now anyway), but one knows that it would not last for long. But however, I choose to remain practical and optimistic about Malaysia's future, and I pray that the sea of change will be for good!<br /><br />And lastly,<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">CONGRATULATIONS, PRESIDENT OBAMA!!!!</span></span>Julianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00816420993104386717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7933023.post-46134809860575791762009-01-07T15:38:00.002+08:002009-01-07T15:49:24.628+08:00US Boycott?<span style="font-family: lucida grande;">I just read the news today about Malaysian Muslims boycotting US products to protest the US involvement in the Israel attacks on Gaza.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: lucida grande;">What's the point?</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: lucida grande;">I mean, I don't disagree with the Malaysian Muslims' point of view on it. But I don't see how boycotting US products will help. For one thing, the rest of the country probably wouldn't follow suit. We're so hooked to all these US-based products in our daily lives.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: lucida grande;">Boycott Starbucks? Hah.. very unlikely.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: lucida grande;">Boycotting US products in Malaysia also would not probably make any difference in thought on American soil. Hell, most Americans don't even know where Malaysia is. I've even been asked, "Is Malaysia like a swamp area?". Shows you how ignorant they are. And the thing is, most US made products are locally made, too! Boycott Coca-Cola? Are you guys nuts? Coke in Malaysia is manufactured in Malaysia.. the brand is American.. but their products are made local for locals. So if you're boycotting them, you're only crippling our local industry. Correct me if I'm wrong. Do you think they'd actually import the drink from America?? If so, you won't be paying RM1.50 for a can of Coke (is that the going price now?). Even if you're successful in boycotting a particular US product, how much of that will cripple the business in the US, that comes from Malaysia.<br /><br />Not much I gather. It'd probably be like an ant bite. Or a mozzie bite.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: lucida grande;">I think there are ways to get our opinions heard. Boycotting US goods is not one of them. You'd find you might be hurting our local businesses more than sending a message across (which probably won't reach, anyway!).</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: lucida grande;">Get real, people! Look at the bigger picture!</span>Julianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00816420993104386717noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7933023.post-73168378693056836862008-12-28T04:35:00.003+08:002008-12-28T05:52:55.460+08:00Steamboat & Black Church!<span style="font-family: verdana;">There's no relationship between the two, in case you were wondering. Just two things I was gonna blog about today.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-family: verdana;">Steamboat</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Well, over here in America they call it </span><span style="font-style: italic; font-family: verdana;">hotpot</span><span style="font-family: verdana;">, we at home call it </span><span style="font-style: italic; font-family: verdana;">steamboat</span><span style="font-family: verdana;">. But I'll call it steamboat here, because there were some friends on Facebook who thought I had a </span><span style="font-style: italic; font-family: verdana;">POT</span><span style="font-family: verdana;"> party.. hahah.. that was hilarious. But you know, with that many Malaysians around like what we had on Christmas night, it might actually look as though it was one! LOL!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">We had our party on Christmas night, and we invited quite a few friends over, some Japanese, Taiwanese, and of course, Malaysians who are based in NY at the moment. But it turned out that we had SEVEN Malaysians who came by, and it was quite a rowdy one, too! I mean, Chern Hwei and myself are rowdy as it is, but with the others it was like... oh well.. we Malaysians know what it's like when we hang out at the </span><span style="font-style: italic; font-family: verdana;">mamak</span><span style="font-family: verdana;"> for late nights, right? So we had Eugene Pook who came down from Rochester (that is another story, which I might or might not tell), Chee Shen (a tenor singer studying at Mannes), Wen Onn (a composer studying in NYU), Nicholas Ong (an amazing pianist based here in NY), Adriane Palikat (a drummer from Kota Kinabalu), and the two of us. Hah... all musicians. And it was a riot.. it was like home-styled </span><span style="font-style: italic; font-family: verdana;">mamak</span> session!<span style="font-family: verdana;"> But best thing was, everyone was nuts in their own right, and I think it probably surprised the other non-Malaysian guests. We even had our M'sian styled drink cheer.. the </span><span style="font-style: italic; font-family: verdana;">yam seng</span><span style="font-family: verdana;">!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Quite a good night I might add. It was a first time for some of us to have met each other for the first time ever, being in New York. But at least it's comforting to know we have more Malaysian friends here.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-family: verdana;">Black Church</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I played a gig at a black church in Jamaica, Queens, last night for Leon Lacey's Day After Christmas concert. It was a part concert, part worship, kind of thing, so I got to experience first-hand, the African-American church culture. It's something I do want to experience at least once, as it is highly related to what I'm studying here in the first place, ie. Jazz. I mean, those who have read about or studied the historical roots of jazz would know that one of the major influences in the development of jazz as a distinct musical form comes from the African-American church culture.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">For one thing, there was ALWAYS singing, and music at the background. Someone would always be playing the organ, or a keyboard (usually with a church organ sound) and accompanying the on-stage speaker or preacher. Then while making a testimony or preaching about something, they would build up the intensity and then would launch into a worship song (which could be either one which everyone knows, or sometimes improvised!), and just keep singing and the whole congregation would sing along, or even shout in response to a call (hence the </span><span style="font-style: italic; font-family: verdana;">call-and-response</span><span style="font-family: verdana;">) or a statement. And this would go on for hours and hours, and I was there for about four hours, so it was pretty long. But the music never stops, someone would always be playing. Me and another saxophone player that night would also be playing some lines or just improvising at the back, reacting to the call-and-response of the singing, during the worship session. This was in between the short sets of which we would be playing Leon's tunes.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">It was quite an energetic, uplifting, and very interesting experience for me. And I count myself blessed that I got to play and attend and experience one of this kind of church services.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Before I sign off, I'll just say that I'll post some pictures soon (when I get my off my lazy butt to upload them off the camera), so stay tuned.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Happy New Year, y'all!</span>Julianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00816420993104386717noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7933023.post-15008831599092661402008-12-26T04:15:00.002+08:002008-12-26T04:22:22.199+08:00Merry Christmas!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwV7OTTM-rgputAY8QHzQFrdofZyYXL-hbp_dSpTbudFn2qLY-9HCOk2tVH-6-MrBDBGDWNt-C4_SDSjGNH6aIs5-XUtX5E3gvDgV5fHzZX27a5P0A_UiCOwIrx2ZsA5kMYehPmA/s1600-h/christmas.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwV7OTTM-rgputAY8QHzQFrdofZyYXL-hbp_dSpTbudFn2qLY-9HCOk2tVH-6-MrBDBGDWNt-C4_SDSjGNH6aIs5-XUtX5E3gvDgV5fHzZX27a5P0A_UiCOwIrx2ZsA5kMYehPmA/s320/christmas.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5283824197166931010" border="0" /></a><br />My first Christmas away from home. Well, I don't celebrate Christmas as much as most Westerners do anyway, but still, it's always a time where we get to spend it with some company, whether with family or friends. This time Xmas eve was pretty much alone, most of the housemates were out playing Xmas eve shows, mass, etc. I was chilling out watching Buffy episodes online and drinking egg-nog (too bad the non-alcoholic one). But today we're doing a nice dinner session, where hotpot (or steamboat in Malaysia) is the main theme! We're getting some Malaysians and some Japanese and Taiwanese people to come over, and most of them.. no, ALL of them are musicians. So we're gonna have some fun tonight.<br /><br />And too bad (or good, depends how you look at it), it has stopped snowing. It was pretty sunny today, so it was kinda nice! Snow maybe interesting for the first day or two, after that it can get rather depressing! Hahaha..<br /><br />Well.. whatever it is..<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);font-size:180%;" >MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!!!</span><br /></div>Julianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00816420993104386717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7933023.post-9648747786750903222008-12-17T13:48:00.002+08:002008-12-17T14:00:45.579+08:00Let it snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow!What started out as light rain, became light and then heavy snow. Took some videos while we were outside walking to have lunch.<br /><br /><object height="240" width="320"><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><param name="movie" value="http://www.facebook.com/v/120359540136"><embed src="http://www.facebook.com/v/120359540136" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="240" width="320"></embed></object><br /><br /><object height="240" width="320"><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><param name="movie" value="http://www.facebook.com/v/120359675136"><embed src="http://www.facebook.com/v/120359675136" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="240" width="320"></embed></object><br /><br />Let it snoooowwww....!!!Julianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00816420993104386717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7933023.post-19988079068592814192008-11-25T03:37:00.001+08:002008-11-25T03:39:40.233+08:00What a f*&king load.... of crap!<br /><br /><a href="http://mediarakyat.net/2008/11/pro-isa-can-anti-isa-cannot/">http://mediarakyat.net/2008/11/pro-isa-can-anti-isa-cannot/</a><br /><br />I'll say it out here loud and proud...<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">BN SUCKS!!!!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >BN SUCKS!!!!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:180%;" >BN GOVERNMENT IS F*&KED UP!!!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);font-size:180%;" >NIAMAH &%^#*$(%&%^!!!!!</span>Julianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00816420993104386717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7933023.post-75209266724145458472008-11-24T02:43:00.004+08:002008-11-24T03:41:03.476+08:00Long runs and some thoughts..I had a post I was working on but then I just stopped and forgot all about it. Wanted to pen some thoughts down, but after looking at it now, it seemed pretty irrelevant to finish it, so I'm just gonna start out a new post. But will pen some new ones if any.<br /><br />Anyway, I wanted to share some pictures I took during a long run I did about two over weeks ago, my first long run in a long time. I did about almost 10k, out in the fairly cold weather, and I ran from my house at 89th St and 37th Ave all the way down 37th to 111th St, and went over to Corona Park. It's probably the nearest park to my place. If you didn't know Corona Park is basically where Flushing Meadows is, and it's the home to the Tennis US Open which takes place in September every year. The park itself was a nice run, it was full of trees and fields, and there were so many fields that I even saw people playing football (ie. soccer in OUR world), and some of the fields were occupied for actual football matches. There were trophies and stuff. But most of the players there were Latino (no surprise there, eh?). Anyway, I'll let the pictures speak for itself.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVHg9e3e16EjBPI9EK3LcsIO5JNDg99ZHpZ6R3bgoehhQoZ8RDvP2ZQZfTjaXH4261S6yNDSuhyphenhyphen0_imrS7nkUo2UEkA-vfxTycw56dTfEwkXBuHTjqg8CQrLfpYvEkupUueT2gEw/s1600-h/DSC00114.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVHg9e3e16EjBPI9EK3LcsIO5JNDg99ZHpZ6R3bgoehhQoZ8RDvP2ZQZfTjaXH4261S6yNDSuhyphenhyphen0_imrS7nkUo2UEkA-vfxTycw56dTfEwkXBuHTjqg8CQrLfpYvEkupUueT2gEw/s320/DSC00114.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5271927843210494770" border="0" /></a>USTA Tennis Center<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIvyjYA6HdZGN_hGVODHTon9537Exgif5BU6QQLRZUneUwcxMNoHmBTAMIISCanaOnNPdKTLANnWcE63ypaCC25WE0voBrADxeCTxtmdT3agutIvL655ymU-at_sLZEV0IQMlQ4g/s1600-h/DSC00116.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIvyjYA6HdZGN_hGVODHTon9537Exgif5BU6QQLRZUneUwcxMNoHmBTAMIISCanaOnNPdKTLANnWcE63ypaCC25WE0voBrADxeCTxtmdT3agutIvL655ymU-at_sLZEV0IQMlQ4g/s320/DSC00116.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5271927854623652658" border="0" /></a>Nice view of Corona Park<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Tf2c6dt2BjkkXdeNd8GExRZpKu1-_2apNjd0Eqwxa4ItAGB45oOuw63Xujcu29MR2M8BRyj4jzqK8oeApu86w5T1uTpp_Vr8j8jeDUELCN2ngC-ES0e1x8vOOgCW7xOrl49lKw/s1600-h/DSC00119.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Tf2c6dt2BjkkXdeNd8GExRZpKu1-_2apNjd0Eqwxa4ItAGB45oOuw63Xujcu29MR2M8BRyj4jzqK8oeApu86w5T1uTpp_Vr8j8jeDUELCN2ngC-ES0e1x8vOOgCW7xOrl49lKw/s320/DSC00119.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5271927868615450306" border="0" /></a>Unisphere<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXyaJPvloW6PdoWlcsIKFts7j5cItvFYbmJ9ntSB9Dmol59J-rmnxuw0293FN8FZXsIizxM-xa4z5Iy6bfKvGSkFXXlrCANRHDbwiqyhCJuYaU-W4o2P1mztaixoRvmGWcWin1oA/s1600-h/DSC00121.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXyaJPvloW6PdoWlcsIKFts7j5cItvFYbmJ9ntSB9Dmol59J-rmnxuw0293FN8FZXsIizxM-xa4z5Iy6bfKvGSkFXXlrCANRHDbwiqyhCJuYaU-W4o2P1mztaixoRvmGWcWin1oA/s320/DSC00121.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5271927877087916978" border="0" /></a>Men In Black anyone?<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPUBoM4eoFHwbWqS7Vg5CZd548SDarblkuAIl_A-XaBAofF-1wAJV7q4CsTMQeFXEtu_sVvQKb60rVlmwGBwc2PyBz-supqXUUwC8MKcnC7pQF7PUVWmNEcDTRjoD09PNVVRJYgA/s1600-h/DSC00123.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPUBoM4eoFHwbWqS7Vg5CZd548SDarblkuAIl_A-XaBAofF-1wAJV7q4CsTMQeFXEtu_sVvQKb60rVlmwGBwc2PyBz-supqXUUwC8MKcnC7pQF7PUVWmNEcDTRjoD09PNVVRJYgA/s320/DSC00123.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5271927879081012866" border="0" /></a>Soccer!<br /></div><br />Well, running in Corona Park was simply awesome... beautiful. I wish KL had more of something like that. At least there's still Lake Gardens.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Jazz gig</span><br /><br />I did my first paying jazz gig on Friday with a Japanese guitarist, Yujin Amano, at a club called RJ's Bar Lounge and Grill in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn. Bay Ridge is at the edge of Brooklyn, just overlooking Verrazano-Narrows Bridge which connects to Staten Island. I got this gig thanks to my buddy Rozhan actually! He was in town for a couple of days with his soon-to-be wife, Rie, and while meeting him up for a hang out, he hooked me up with Yujin. He was looking for a sax player for his gig at RJ's.<br /><br />The gig turned out pretty nice, actually. It was a small set-up - sax, guitar, electric bass and drums. We played some funk/jazz/smooth jazz kinda stuff (almost similar to my old GJ days - if you know what I'm talking about), but less of the self-gratification, so that was pretty fun for me. We did some Stevie stuff, and even some electric Miles. Best thing was, it felt nice to be playing after so long, and (hopefully) making some music!<br /><br />That's it for now.. will update later!Julianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00816420993104386717noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7933023.post-50623066889432295242008-10-29T22:30:00.004+08:002008-10-29T22:37:43.689+08:00An example of Malaysian idiots<p>You know, I've seen or read some pretty stupid things about what's going on in my home in Malaysia, but I think this one takes the cake (at least the BIG slice), I could be wrong, but I think it wouldn't get anymore FOOLISH and IDIOTIC than this:</p><p></p><blockquote style="font-style: italic;"><p>PENANG, 29 Oct 2008: The National Fatwa Council will come out with a ruling related to yoga exercise soon.</p> <p>The announcement would be made by the council's chairperson, Prof Datuk Dr Abdul Shukor Husin, said Department of Islamic Development Malaysia deputy director-general (operations), Othman Mustapha.</p><p>He told reporters this after opening the two-day seminar on Islamic Jurisprudence and Eternal Islamic Thinking at Universiti Sains Malaysia.</p><p>Yesterday, lecturer Prof Zakaria Stapa of Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia's Islamic Studies Centre advised Muslims who have taken up yoga to stop practising it for fear that it could deviate their beliefs.</p><p>- Bernama</p></blockquote><p></p><p>Wow.. I really wonder what goes on in these people's head? Do they have one in the first place?</p><p>What? You bozos actually stopped using your head and your heart when you're reading the Quran now?<br /></p><p>Pitiful. Misled from a very young age to become village idiots.<br /></p><p></p>Julianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00816420993104386717noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7933023.post-18113630828051357312008-10-05T00:19:00.002+08:002008-10-05T00:22:25.603+08:00LET'S GO MAMAK! Recap..Hey all,<br /><br />It's been over 2 months since the "Let's Go Mamak!" show by our new Malaysian ensemble (a stellar crew of musicians and artists, by the way), INNER VOICES.<br /><br />For some of you, I know you want to hear and see something from it... so... check out the website again. Ken Hor has uploaded some audio and video of the show. More will be forthcoming.<br /><br />So, click your browsers at <a href="http://innervoicesband.blogspot.com">"Let's Go Mamak" by Inner Voices</a>.<br /><br />Feel free to leave some comments and emails. Enjoy!Julianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00816420993104386717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7933023.post-6161344473453321282008-09-30T14:51:00.002+08:002008-09-30T15:07:56.531+08:00I'm fine..<span style="font-family: lucida grande;">Hmmm.. interesting read, the last post. Even for me.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: lucida grande;">It was wierd when I was typing it. My mind was in a total state of confusion. I was probably at a mental disarray, if you will. Wierd thing was, I hardly experience something like this.. if at all. Must be one of those rare days, when the planets align against me, causing me to go haywire for no good reason.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: lucida grande;">I'm fine now, by the way.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: lucida grande;">Anyway..</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: lucida grande;">It was a fairly productive day today, not music-wise though. Went to school early to practice and prep for lessons, and I only realized that it was a holiday in school. No wonder it was so quiet when I first got there. Antonio wasn't even around. So I got back home early, ran some errands, like send my brother's birthday gift (</span><span style="font-weight: bold; font-family: lucida grande;">HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BRO!!!</span><span style="font-family: lucida grande;">), and bought some supplies. Weather was great. On the way back from the post office at 78th St (I stay in 89th, so that's 11 blocks away), I got 'distracted' and bought a few things that I needed, and I came across a health store that I never got a chance to visit, but I knew was there. It was pretty interesting! They had a lot of interesting organic food, and even vegetarian/vegan food products as well! Couldn't buying a pack of vegan bologne slice and a ham slice, which were on sale, as well as a pack of granola cereals!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: lucida grande;">When I got back, I even cleaned up my room, for real. I didn't get a chance to thoroughly clean my room since I got back, so this was a good time than not. I rearranged everything that needed to be, cleaned the blinds (I think it hadn't been cleaned for AGES!), and re-packed everything.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: lucida grande;">Made dinner... a nice sambal vege fish with buttered brocolli and mushroom, fried egg over buttered rice! LOL! You might drool if you saw my dinner! God knows I did. Watched "Incredible Hulk" on my computer, while eating.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: lucida grande;">Then came the moment I've been waiting for... repairing my Macbook! My DVD SuperDrive and Bluetooth had been out of commission for a few weeks now. The SuperDrive I wrecked from putting a half-sized CD inside, and got it stuck... and the best part... it happened RIGHT BEFORE I came back to New York. The Bluetooth.. well, that has been failing for a little while before I got back here. I initially sent it to a Mac Support store to see if they can fix it. But the prices they charged were RIDICULOUS, and it would take AGES for them to do it. So I took back my Macbook, ordered the parts I needed from this AMAZING website called www.ifixit.com, and I decided to fix it myself, and this for almost HALF the price of sending it for repair.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: lucida grande;">Today I managed to find the time to fix it.. but man.. it was a pain! Whoever designed the laptops is either a real genius, or a pain in the neck! The screws were SO SMALL, it was really hard to get around it sometimes. But each set of screws were really unique and meant for a specific part of the laptop. After a couple of hours going at it (and almost getting hung up over ONE particular screw which was a tad more stuck), I managed to fix both the bluetooth board as well as replace a new SuperDrive! Now they both work fine! Man.. I could work at a Mac store to do repairs, like this! Ahahaha..</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: lucida grande;">Oh well. Time to go.. will spend the whole day tomorrow practicing..</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: lucida grande;">Later.</span>Julianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00816420993104386717noreply@blogger.com0