Richard - one of the first things I ever heard you say, during an informational session about the dance program at Columbia, was that dance majors were deemed to have the most desirable traits by employers. One of my fondest and funniest memories is sitting in the music room, upstairs on Sheridan Rd., in our Music for Dancers I class as freshmen, sweating after technique class, listening to amazing sounds, competing with the clanging of the radiators, and you commented on the buzz of endorphins in the room. It was an exciting time. My last memory of you (and one of my last dance experiences, in fact) was your helpful guidance through the summer choreography mentorship program in 2002. I always found working in the sound room to be immensely satisfying--who would have guessed?! I also look around me now, as I am pursuing a PhD in psychology, and I see psych majors who sleep through class, take maybe 5-10 classes total, and are very entitled, and I know you were right about dance majors (even if everyone else happens to think that dance is sub-worthy). I dont think I have to say how gifted you are, but you were inspirational as a teacher and mentor, and I appreciate and remember fondly your wisdom and warmth.
Posted on: Tue, 09 Sep 2014 13:41:23 +0000