November 17, 2009

Podcast 71: Bill Heenan, Adventure in Yemen

In 2008, Bill Heenan, '76, traveled to Sana'a, Yemen, to gain professional experience at an English language institute. The trip presented many unusual opportunities and situations. When the institute’s director became sick, Heenan suddenly found himself running the institute. And then the security situation deteriorated with terrorist attacks in the country, including the bombing of the US Embassy. Heenan decided to keep his commitment and stay in the country. He provides us with a glimpse into this little-known area of the world.

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Posted by smorioka at 04:05 PM

October 27, 2009

Podcast 70: Heavy Metal, Steven Ball on the Bells

You may be familiar with the music of Steven Ball, '00, MMUS'03, AMusD'08, even if you don't realize it. This is strange when you consider that he performs on massive instruments. One is the carillon in Burton Tower, which consists of 55 bells with a combined weight of 43 tons. The other is the Barton organ at the Michigan Theater, where part of his job is to accompany silent films. Learn about Ball's unique and musical life in our latest podcast. Extra links: Steven Ball, www.stevenball.com; Stearns Collection, www.music.umich.edu/research/stearns_collection/index.htm.

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Posted by bwhites at 08:49 AM