Jim Cotter

The French-born pianist Helene Grimaud is among the most gifted pianists of her generation. The forty-something-year old is not only blessed with great musical ability, but also with some extraordinary mental powers. 

She experiences synesthesia, a condition that causes the physical senses to overlap. In Grimaud's case, this manifests itself as an ability to see and touch music.  In practice, this makes it possible for her to rehearse without a piano and still fully experience the music.

Temple University has announced the name of its 10th president. WRTI's Jim Cotter speaks with Neil Theobald, whose tenure begins in January, 2013.

Neil LaBute has achieved renown for his sometimes darkly comedic explorations of human behavior.

Philadelphia International Festival of the Arts (PIFA) Executive Director Ed Cambron speaks with Jim Cotter about plans for the second, month-long event set for March and April of next year.

WRTI's Jim Cotter speaks with James Conlon, music director of LA Opera. In an effort to raise awareness of the works of two generations of composers who were suppressed, forced to emigrate, or were executed by the Nazi regime, Conlon has dedicated himself to programming this music.

WRTI's Jim Cotter speaks with James Gaffigan.  The young American conductor has a growing reputation at home and abroad.

Philadelphia-based composer Jennifer Higdon has begun writing her first opera. Based on the novel Cold Mountain, it will be her sole creative pursuit for the next three years. WRTI's Jim Cotter speaks with the world-renowned composer.

WRTI's Jim Cotter speaks with Sue Ann Prince, director and curator of the American Philosophical Society Museum in Philadelphia, about their current exhibition Tempus Fugit.

The Philadelphia Theatre Company's production of reasons to be pretty is now at the Suzanne Roberts Theatre through June 24th. WRTI's Jim Cotter speaks with playwright Neil LaBute about his trilogy of plays focusing on America's obsession with physical appearance.

David Patrick Stearns profiles the Princeton-based contemporary composer Steve Mackey.