The Bestor Chronicles

On Pastel Wing - free download

2011-03-15T15:34:00.001-06:00

Long time, no blog....

Thanks to the Mr. Zuckerburg and a little program he invented called "Facebook" I have neglected this blog. But - for those of you who follow it, I pledge to do better. Here is a piece of sheet music that you're welcome to download. I'm actually demo-ing the software here for 8 days, so it might explode in a week, but until then - download a song called "On Pastel Wing" from my Seasons CD. If I can figure out the commerce side of this application, I hope to offer more and more music. I know - famous last words....

Keep on me. ~ Kurt

To retrieve your sheet music, click on the following link:

On Pastel Wing

Watch out Lindsay Vonn!

2010-02-23T17:42:00.001-07:00

But it's sure fun makin' 'em!

2010-02-10T09:28:00.003-07:00

There’s a lot to love about living in Utah; the incredible landscapes that offer endless hiking and camping opportunities, some of the best skiing in the world on what is often called “the greatest snow on earth, and the friendly and gregarious people with their equally friendly and gregarious children. But - ah - herein lies the rub, taking care of the little kindern. Me thinks there’s a bug in the ointment...and it’s buzzing louder than usual around the Deseret's capitol building.

I have been watching in utter amazement this year as our head-strong Utah State legislators have been bulling their way through our statutes and laws with added vigor. I expect a certain amount of this to happen each each year and anticipate several “message bills” - the proverbial“middle finger” to the federal government (“We hate the U.N., Leave our wilderness alone, etc.). But this year, I am shocked at the effect this unchecked one-sided bravado is having on our most valuable asset - our Utah kids.

Follow this logic if you can: They have voted away a law mandating toddlers and young children sit in a safety-proven booster seat because it’s inconvenient and because “so few parents are following it anyway.” AND...the premise used to defeat it - government intrusion on our personal freedoms. If there was some evidence that booster seats did NOT make kids safer, I can understand the argument, but this law change was simply made because it wasn’t convenient for mommy and daddy.

Now - add to this decision a proposal our dubious state Senator Buttar’s is trying to make - that we do away with 12th grade and make 11th grade optional and you’ll start seeing the reason for my rising blood pressure. Also voted down was the banning of selling junk food in school vending machines. So - if we don’t kill them in booster seat-less cars, we’ll just fatten ‘em up in grade school and hasten them on their way to diabetes.

It’s ironic really - a state that touts children as its most prized asset is dead last in education spending per pupil, relaxes a booster-seat law which is proven to protect them, refuses to remove fatty and sugar-laden junk food in schools, and is hoping to subtract 1-2 years of schooling from their education.

I guess we’re great at making our children - it’s just the taking care of them part that we don’t do so well.

Winning is NOT Everything!

2010-01-18T10:27:00.006-07:00

Have been musing a bit about all things political here in the USA - especially amid all the kerfuffle about health care. Like all healthy middle-aged men, I have a channel surfing trigger finger and can bounce between CNN, MSNBC, FOX, and all the regular broadcast channels like a Chinese ping pong champ on crack! When there is heated discussion on an important issue or pending congressional vote, I will go through my usual process - watch the actual debate on CSPAN, turn quickly to CNN to hear the pundits take, then over to FOX to hear the histrionics on the right, followed by a quick channel turn to MSNBC to get the left's counter punch. Finally - I watch the "Cliff-notes" version on NBC and ABC, topped off with a lighter moment with Katie C on CBS. (Whew) At the end of all that, (after a Gatorade to replenish fluids) I'm left to try and make sense of it all. How I miss Walter Cronkite and the days of truly "fair and balanced" news reporting.

These days - it's not about solving a particular problem or reporting on things fairly from both sides. It's all about winning, the Arbitron ratings and the almighty advertising dollar. Fox News and it's veritable sponsoring of the Tea Party movement all but disqualifies it from being a credible news reporting source. MSNBC has countered by offering a steady diet of snarkiness and virtriol aimed back at the Fox bloviants Beck, Hannity, & O'Reilly (and now Palin.) I happen to think that CNN gets closest of all to offering both sides, but hearing their highly-paid "talking heads" weighing in over and over and over on a 24/7 news cycle is truly mind-numbing. (Thank goodness for Christiane Amanpour!)

Recently, while visiting family in Kenya, I enjoyed watching the BBC and Sky News. They seem to go deeper on subjects and offer a truly balanced approach. Oh, but wait....they are a government-run broadcast medium - not reliant soley on advertising dollars. What's a capitalist country to do?

Perhaps - among the 1000+ channels of cable TV drivel that I subscribe to - there should be one or two publicly paid for stations whose job it is to be factual, unbiased, and probing. We Americans truly need something like that in order to know how the country is faring during these harrowing times. Without relying on ad dollars, it might actually work. A pure broadcast channel dedicated to dispensing important info to American citizens. Sounds exciting - not!

That's the other problem - statistics and facts and positive change are just not as exciting as a golfer's love life, the President's new dog, and the sordid personal faux pas of our movie stars and elected officials. We like our TV to be like a circus side show - full of freaks and "believe it or not" spectacle. So - "step right up" America and come and get what you asked for.

Tis NOT the Season.....yet! ;-)

2009-10-01T10:49:00.001-06:00

Stop the Bombs! I Can't Hear What my Enemy is Saying.

2009-09-17T10:07:00.001-06:00

September, 11, 2009. I remember the moment that I watched the second jet hit the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001. I was in a hotel room in Cedar City, Utah where I was on a PTA-sponsored speaking tour of Utah schools. As I sat on my bed watching the events unfold, I went through a myriad of feelings in the space of those awful 15 or 20 minutes starting with a surreal fascination and curiosity followed by rage and intensity. But the feeling that has stuck with me almost continuously the last eight years is one of determination to not just sit in the comfort of my house and watch the killing and hating through my peripheral vision. It's easy to do that with a smorgasbord of pop culture continually screaming for attention. I try not to let the din of American commercialism cover up the crying happening daily in Iraq, Palestine, Afghanistan, and other turbulent regions.

I have to keep believing that all of us pushing and shoving for space on this planet really desire peace, love, and harmony more than war, hate, and disharmony. Surely—even the most radical extremist would prefer a comfortable abode for his family, sufficient food to eat, and just a bit extra to enjoy the simple things in life. The opium-farming Taliban Afghani would rather just sell his beautiful flowers for decoration if he could make enough money that way. The bomb-toting Hamas Palestinian youth would rather strap on a book bag on his way to a higher education if it were available. Poverty and lack of education breed desperation and hatred. We've seen it here in the US in our inner cities for years. We shouldn't be surprised that the same formula equals a similar result in other places.

I remember thinking naively, after Osama Bin Laden announced his ownership of the 9/11 tragedy, "I want to go and talk to him - ask him why he hates us so much. I want to play music for him and infuse a bit of love into his otherwise hate-consumed world." I thought at that time that he just needed to get to know us and he'd have a change of heart. I now feel that those on the extreme side of world conflict may be too immersed and invested in their causes to listen to reason. However, there are millions of others who are in the more reasonable middle ground. They should become our focus now.

I am convinced that the answer to solving the MIddle East conflict, is NOT found at the end of a gun rifle but at the end of an outstretched hand. Guns, bombs, and violence can only breed more of the same. The same could be said for other foreign policy hotspots around the world. During the last election, I remember Obama being castigated by the Republican candidates when he mentioned in a debate that if elected, he "could be willing to meet leaders of Iran, Syria, Cuba, Venezuela and North Korea in [his] first year of office." Despite the protests of his opponents, this simple statement by Obama was hailed by the majority of countries outside our shores. Perhaps they realized like Abraham Lincoln did that "Am I not destroying enemies when I make friends of them?" or Moshe Dyan who said, "If you want to make peace, you don't talk to your friends. You talk to your enemies."

That is why I was constantly confused at the Bush administration's insistence on NOT talking with those who fight against us. We can't bomb them into oblivion. Using force against them without discourse only ignorantly reinforces their idea that America is "occupying" their homeland. Emerging from the rubble of Baghdad, Kabul, and Gaza will be stronger fighters even more incensed and determined to bring about our demise. Bush and Cheney's "surge" and resolve to not discuss and educate was just pouring gasoline on an already growing fire.

During the first eight months of Obama's administration, I have observed his foreign policy start to take shape and have been cautiously optimistic as I've seen a hand outstretched in the direction of Russia, North Korea, and other nations deemed part of Bush's "Axis of Evil" only a year ago. More talking and overtures of peace and less yelling and posturing seems to be this administration's foreign policy mantra. We've carried a "big stick" long enough. Obama seems to want to infuse a little more "speak softly" into his foreign policy equation. From my vantage point, it's starting to work. The more this country presses the flesh, the less apt we are to press the red button.

Totally Consumed!

2009-06-29T09:10:00.003-06:00

After a particularly long stretch of horrendous deadlines, intense clients, and restless nights, Petrina and I decided to stop the world and get off the next exit - (or at least go somewhere outside of cellphone coverage.) Luckily, here in the beautiful state of Utah, we didn’t have to go far. After throwing a dart at my map of the gorgeous High Uintahs, we aimed our GPS unit to Soapstone Basin where we would spend our weekend.

Luckily, a Rocky Mountain high-induced trip to REI a few years ago and I now have a garage filled with more than one would ever need to survive a year in the great outdoors. I loaded all I could squeeze into the XTerra and Petrina, baby, and I were off.

As we approached the area we had targeted for our quiet get away, I noticed an increasing number of large campgrounds - or I perhaps “compounds” would be a better term - each with a tent large enough for one of those traveling Mexican circuses, 4 to 5 jacked-up “Ram Tough” pickups, and enough camouflaged 4-wheelers to drive a small army. Even white-haired granny and the mullet-topped 6 year-old had their own souped-up vehicles.

Petrina and I like to camp in relative solace and so we drove past this scene out of the movie Deliverance and up a steep and deeply-rutted road where we were convinced that we would be alone. The perfect spot was found and in no time we had assembled Camp Bestor. I then strapped 6-month old Ella onto my backpack, applied the SPF 60, and off we went for a short hike.

As we returned to our camp, Petrina noticed in the distance one of the pickup trucks we had seen earlier. It was now spinning mud-splattering circles in the wet field of wild flowers in front of our camp. As we got closer, the “yeehaws” from within the cab of the truck were only matched by the manic barking of the one-eyed pitbull who was chasing after the truck despite getting covered tail to snout in mud and wild flowers. I shook my head and had to fight off the urge to confront the driver.

Then the truck suddenly stopped and a man stepped out of the cab and grabbed a chainsaw from the bed of the pickup. We watched incredulously as he began to cut down a “not-quite-dead” pine tree. After felling it, he sawed it into about 8 sections, tossed it all into the truck, did a few more muddy circles for good measure, and then headed back down to his camp.

By now, my blood was pumping and the peaceful environmentalist in me had now turned to a Greenpeace activist - “on crack!” Petrina, noticed my agitation and reminded me that our good ol’ boy “had a chainsaw.” So - we just grabbed a photo of his license plate and his bumper sticker that read “Gun Control means using BOTH hands!”)

That night I mused a lot about what we had observed and I came to the conclusion that some people are just “consumers” and feel that all that is around them is for the taking. “No one’s gonna tell me what I can or cannot do” seems to be the mantra. From wasteful burning of fuel in their gas-guzzling vehicles to the wanton destruction of nature’s beauty. Even the un-welcome noise they made until well past midnight was a selfish act by people that just don’t value others feelings. I wondered how people came to be this way and then I remembered grandma and the little 6-year old I had seen earlier. More was being passed down here than just genetics.

Petrina and I vowed that night that our little Ella would value the beauty and the sacred resources that nature provides. By teaching her to be selfless and thoughtful in her approach to enjoying Utah’s immense beauty, perhaps we could counterbalance others wanton selfishness.

Oh, by the way - the OTHER bumper sticker read:
I’m Hung like Einstein and Smart as a Horse.

I rest my case.

World According to Ella - episode#4

2009-06-09T14:31:00.001-06:00

Nancy and John - You're Grounded!

2009-05-15T08:25:00.004-06:00

Sometimes, when I hear politicians bloviate about which party did what when and where, it brings to mind memories of playground prattle and the mindless "blame games" that children play. The phrase, "He did it first!" and the mind-numbing "uh-huh, nuh uh, uh huh, nuh uh..."sound bad enough when uttered by snot-nosed kindergardeners, but when they're used by our elected officials to deflect blame, they're extremely off-putting.

The most recent example of this is the "Did Pelosi know of the Water-Boarding or Not" scandal. House Minority Leader John Boehner (R) tried his best to act like an intelligent congressman in blaming House Speaker Pelosi (D) that she indeed knew of the EIT's (Enhanced Interrogation Techniques) - most expressly "Water-boarding," but it still sounded like "neener neener" to me. Even her response sounded a bit like "I know you are, but what am I!"

Nancy and John, put down your ball bat and Barbie doll, come in from recess, and let's talk about this! No matter who knew about it - water boarding should NOT be part of the United States' interrogation techniques. And little Dickie Cheney, I don't care that this reprehensible technique may have brought some good results. A wrong is still a wrong!

When I hear the Republicans blame the Democrats for any problems we may be encountering and the Democrats blaming the Republicans for getting us in this mess, I'm reminded of a scenario that would happen in my house when I was growing up. Mom and Dad, upon arriving home from the rare date, found an apple core, half a PB&J sandwich, and a Snickers wrapper behind the TV. After lining us up in traditional Captain Von Trapp fashion, Dad asked each of us who the guilty culprit. Much like Boehner and Pelosi, we pointed to the other guy and said "He did it." Dad shook his head in disappointment and said, "If something like this happens when we're gone, you're ALL to blame. I expect you to work out your differences" and we were summarily sent to our rooms for an hour of solitary confinement.

So, Nancy and John, you and your congressional and senatorial compatriots are all to blame for the embarrassing way we appear to the world. We elected you to put your heads together and figure it out, not to just blame each other. So, up to your rooms! Perhaps skipping dinner tonight will help you remember that things like water-boarding should never happen in an evolved and civilized country like ours.

p.s. to my sisters Jill, Carrie, and John: It was me!

The World According to Ella - Vlog#1

2009-04-16T15:25:00.001-06:00

Freeloading!

2009-04-06T11:44:00.003-06:00

Over the last decade or so, I have debated most of my UNDER 30 friends about P2P music file sharing. The first √ checkpoint on their debate slate is to point out how these free downloads from Kazaa, Limewire and others help promote the artist and that once a free song is heard, often the whole CD is purchased. Huh? Doesn't mesh with the stats, kids! In the age group 15-30, 95% of the music is downloaded for free. And, as we all know, CDs are dying a slow and agonizing death. SO - the new music delivery is most certainly downloading.

ITunes began the download for $ and set the price point to $.99 a tune. I frankly think this is a bit high - especially since you get no cover art or liner notes AND the mp3 audio quality is not nearly as nice as a CD. But - at least people are paying.

I'd be curious as to some of the solutions you would recommend and your thoughts about P2P file sharing and music. I hope you'll comment.

Oh - by the way - here is a FREE DOWNLOAD that I just posted. "What's the difference?" you ask. The artist is giving his permission to download it!

CLICK here for Free MP3 Download

My "Brand Video" 2009 - I'm just a gimmick after all!

2009-03-30T17:28:00.001-06:00

Kurt Bestor Brand Video#1 from Kurt Bestor on Vimeo.

Living for Eden - Benefit Concert

2009-03-23T12:42:00.001-06:00

"I'm looking for a word.."

2009-02-25T11:24:00.002-07:00

Not sure why - but I've always been a lover of words. It didn't hurt that my mom was an English teacher and always refers to a big Funk and Wagnalls dictionary when dinner conversation led to "what does THAT word mean?" Perhaps my love of Scrabble aided this infatuation with language, although I've since discovered that many great Scrabblers don't even know the definition for the words that they use. Whatever its origin, this love of words continues today.

I not only like knowing the etymology, but relish saying a word that is extra "tasty." For example - my favorite word "to eat" is "pulp." It's like a lucious "L sandwich" nestled between two plosive "p" slices. Even as I write this, I've said it 3 times - enjoying the feeling each time. Another word that comes to mind is "gifts." At first saying - it's an awkward one. But slow it down and enjoy that "f..t..s.." as the air goes past your pursed lips and then the tongue and teeth get together to enjoy the last two consonants. "Eating words" - always tastes good and is calorie free.

Lately, I've wanted to leave some etymological legacy" by creating a new word. Unfortunately, my attempts have been more like sniglets than lasting words. For example, "optigook" is one I've used to describe that squishy duck meat you find in waking eyes. The only word that has had decent usage and might have a chance of surviving my existence is "chud." Don't ask me why - but once I was searching for a term to describe the gelatinous substance between the folds of obese people. Not finding one - I coined the term "chud." Unless you have a better one, I'm sticking with it.

This has been a fairly useless blog post, but I guess - in a weird way - gives you some insight into the wacky brain of one crazed composer.

"Me Time" becomes "WHEEE Time!"

2009-01-13T12:22:00.005-07:00

Ella Cecilie Bestor

born January 12, 2009

As I prepared the blueprint of my life (ok, I didn't - but just go with me on this!) I never would have imagined that at the ripe old age of....whatever I am....I would be sitting in a labor recovery room with wife and baby. But, that is exactly where I am right now. After my two daughters, Kristin and Erika, left the house in pursuit of adult life and dreams - I selfishly figured that it was now "ME TIME!" and planned my life with all things "Kurt-centric." My - how things change. But as the country is anticipating a welcome and much-needed change, so a change is a good thing in my life.

Outside of the copious diaper changes and vanishing sleep, having a child again in my life is something that is sure to make my music and life in general more fulfilling. Holding my new daughter Ella takes me back to the blessed moments when I would fall asleep with my eldest daughter Kristin on my chest or when I would let Erika (my suddenly "middle" child) dance a jig on my knee.

Yes, I thought it was going to be "Me" time - but suddenly "We" time seems a lot more fun!

Announcing: A New Contest!!

2009-01-03T10:59:00.004-07:00

To read this - simply click and a bigger-sized version will appear. If that isn't big enough - here's the number of a good optometrist! (801-555.......LOL!)

French Toast Recipe - Bestor Style

2008-12-21T22:04:00.002-07:00

Some of you may have seen my appearance with KUTV's Casey Scott where I cooked French Toast and played piano (not at the same time.) Actually, I KNOW some of you did because you've sent emails requesting the recipe. So - here 'tis!

Eggnog French Toast with Quick Blueberry Syrup Kurt Bestor Style

You could make the sauce with cranberries too if they’re in season!

2 eggs
1 pinch salt
2 cups eggnog
8 slices Brioche or bakery challah, 3/4-in. thick, or another soft
yellow bread
1/2 cup maple syrup
2 tablespoons water
1/2 pint blueberries (or 1 cup cranberries)
1/2 cup creme fraiche or sour cream

In a medium bowl, whisk eggs. Then whisk in the salt and eggnog.
Pour mixture into a shallow baking dish. Working in batches if necessary, place the bread in the dish
and let soak a few minutes, then turn and soak on the other side.
Cook soaked bread on a grill or buttered griddle until golden brown, then turn and repeat on the other side.
For the blueberry sauce, in a sauté pan add maple syrup and water and bring to a boil.
Add blueberries and cook until they start to burst and break down.
Pour cooked mixture into a blender and whiz it to make a sauce or just mash it with the back of a fork.
Keep warm and pour the sauce over the French toast, then top with dollops of creme fraiche or sour
cream.
4-6 servings

Trick or Tweet

2008-12-06T10:49:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I have a confession - Not only do I Tweet, I actually LIKE it! That said, when pressed to describe to a non-Tweeter, I'll be damned if I can explain what the attraction is. I thought about the question all day today as copious 140-word confessions, mini-descriptions of social and political commentary, and micro-banterings of daily meanserings popped up on my computer screen (and iPhone! Heaven forbid that I hop off the Tweet train at the store or at the symphony.)
I finally determined that it's interesting to me to feel connected to a vibrant and ever-changing world. I follow NPR's Scott Simon and Terry Moran to stay abreast of all things pop and political, Eddie Izzard and Ashton Kutcher for a few laughs per hour, fellow musicians to keep my craft fresh, and a handful of friends to feel a sense of community. To be honest, I'm less interested in how many people follow me and deny more than a few obvious Tweeters who want to simply want to hawk their wares or bloviate about their empty lives.
I only have one concern about Twittering my life on a daily basis - that I'll lose the ability to write anything longer than 140 characters!

www.twitter.com/kbestor

-- Post From My iPhone

And the winner is....

2008-11-27T13:15:00.002-07:00

After 5 weeks of hearing a lot of great singers from one end of the state to the other, I have finally picked the winner of the

2008 Bestor's Best Singer Search.

Here is a video of the three finalists and the eventual winner -

Danny Tarasevitch.

I want to thank all the great singers - and there WERE more than I could have hoped for. Many of you may have been chosen in another year with another type of show. The term "best" isn't really appropriate - but "Bestor's Best" made for a good title. Now - cheer on Danny as he joins me for the 20th Anniversary "A Kurt Bestor Christmas."

(good tickets still available at www.arttix.org)

2008-11-24T15:58:00.001-07:00

Guest Article in Wasatch Women Magazine

Brawn vs. Beauty

Behind every strong man is a stronger woman

by Kurt Bestor

I have a theory about which is really the stronger gender. Now, I haven't tested this like Galileo dropping rotten fruit off the Tower of Pisa or like Einstein contemplating relativity at a lonely train station. But — after observing approximately half the earth's "better looking" population for the last four decades, I think I know what I'm talking about here. In short: women rule the world.

I know, I know. History books (written mostly by bespectacled old male university professors I might add) are full of examples of chieftains, generals and dictators exing their muscles as they conquer another country or two before clocking out for the day. Marvel comics and Warner Brothers Pictures depict testosterone-laden superheroes with bulging biceps righting a capsizing ocean liner, taking on an entire rogue army and deftly swooping up a swooning maiden on the way home from the office.

Even now, as I put pen to paper here, I'm watching a massive Olympic weightlifter hoist barbells the size of a large 747 over his head on his way to a gold medal. But look a little deeper and I think you'll see just who is ruling the roost.

Even the most powerful despot and inuential leader has to come home and, after he kisses little Genghis and tussles Napoleon Junior's hair, gets an unsolicited critique of his job. "I can't believe you invaded that country today, after promising me you would stop after Mesopotamia!" "Isn't that just typical — you get a few extra shekels and you can't help but buy a new chariot!" Houses throughout history and kitchens across all continents have always resonated with the same feminine power. "Before you go downstairs to plan your next pillage and plunder, I need you to take out that stinking garbage."

Yes, as sure as that apple hitting Newton on the head, this theory needs no proving.

In the meantime, we men will continue with the only jobs that are left to us — that of being "breeding stock" and reaching for the soup cans on the highest shelf.

Oops ... hang on a sec ...

Wish I could stay, but I got a jar of pickles that my wife needs opening.

Kurt Bestor Christmas - SPECIAL GUEST!

2008-11-23T14:34:00.004-07:00

For this, my 20th Anniversary A Kurt Bestor Christmas show, I'm more than excited to have as my special guest, renowned classical violinist, Jenny Oaks Baker.

I chose Jenny, because, not only is she an amazing talent, but she's also a "local girl made good!" and she actually played in my orchestra back when she was a precocious teenager. In a year of looking back AND forward - she was the perfect choice.

Through the years, it's been my privilege to have arranged many songs for her popular CDs. She's the consummate professional with a drive for perfection that I have seen in very few artists. So - she'll be loading the mini-van with supportive husband Matt, 4 active kids, a dog (I just made that one up!) and driving from Washington DC to Utah for my shows. Oh, and by the way, she's agreed to join me in ALL my holiday appearances! (Check here for schedule and details.)

If you haven't purchased your tickets yet, you can still get good tickets by logging on to ARTTIX.org

Bestor - The Underground Interview*

2008-11-13T14:11:00.011-07:00

This is a recent interview I had with UtahFM's Crystal Young Otterstrom - a delightful person who also happens to be a composer. Besides this interview, I would encourage you listen frequently to utahfm on Thursdays from 9:00-12:00 when Babs Delay does a great show.

* (UtahFM is located "underground" - in the bowels of the Dakota Lofts.)

Composition Assignment 101:

2008-11-02T10:43:00.005-07:00

What do you get when you cross: a city named after a Book of Mormon figure, a mascot named after people dressed in gingham with handcarts, and 2200 hormone-laden teenagers? The ingredients for my latest composition assignment.

www.kurtbestor.com

Bestor Elevated!

2008-10-29T17:52:00.003-06:00

The last two months I have been making a regular appearance on KJZZ in Salt Lake City discussing the many activities available to Utahns right in their backyard! We call it Home Team Elevated. This month Denise Druce (the show's fitness host) and I went mountain biking right behind my house. I still have the road rash to prove it! Click here to watch a different side of Kurt Bestor.

Bestor's Bestor Singer Search "Part Deux!"

2008-10-23T11:18:00.003-06:00

• Oct 24: St George "Downtown Friday Night" 6:00 pm
• Oct 31: Provo/Orem UVU/Center Stage Noon noon
• Nov 6: Ogden MegaPlex 13 Main Lobby 4:00 pm
• Nov 14: SLC at The Gateway Grand Hall 4:00 pm
• Nov 20: Logan USU Student Union Noon- noon

• Nov 26: KSL's Studio 5 - WINNER ANNOUNCED! 11:00 am

• Dec. 10-13: SLC Winner Performs on "A Kurt Bestor Christmas"

RULES:

Working with the "Un-Idol."

2008-10-13T10:41:00.004-06:00

Over the past few year, I've been so-so about the TV show phenomenon "American Idol." I've often felt a little silly around the water cooler (or studio console) as friends cheered their favorite Idol - many already achieving "one-name" status (Beau, Daughtery, etc). I NEVER could stomach the early rounds as the Judging Troyka (Randy, Paula, and Simon "LeGree") use some of the "vocally challenged" as comic pawns in their quest for rocketing ratings. It's just too mean for me.

However, this last season, I found myself tuning in to discover if this cherubic kid from Murray Utah was the real thing. Although he didn't win, I have to say that he definitely had "chops."

Well - last night, it was my pleasure to work with him in the studio on a couple of tunes he was recording on his new CD. As I produced his vocal tracking, I was taken by just how effortlessly he came up with fresh and new licks - each one better than the next and all distinctively "David."

So, yes, I am a big fan of David Archuletta (and his sweet and supportive parents Jeff and Lupe). Our musical world is better with this high school senior in it. Oh - and no, I probably won't be watching this season of A.I. either - at least not until I feel like the dumb one at the drinking fountain again.

:`-(

2008-10-02T17:06:00.002-06:00

4COL, even tho I’m always AATK, I still need 404 when it comes to these cute little internet acronyms! IWBNI there existed some kind of “www lexicon” to help a “middle-aged computer geek wannabe” get in the loop here. Perhaps it’s a way to KPC. I give a ^5 to anyone who can keep up with IM crowd cause I certainly can’t.

Here’s my 02 - when talking to someone whose high school graduation song was “We May Never Pass This Way Again” by Seals & Crofts, add a few letters to the mix or, at the very least, be a little more patient with this OM.

I have to admit, that while I understand the little “smileys and emoticons” a little better, I find them obnoxious. Every time I try and insert one in my emails, I feel like a teenage girl putting a little smiley face in her circled “i.” That said - I still occasionally find them amusing and the ever-growing list is equally impressive. Here are a few of my favorites:

@>--;-- A rose

I:( Botox smiley

:-.) Cindy Crawford

%*@:-( Hungover with headache

@@@@:-) Marge Simpson

*<|:-) Santa Claus

I guess I sound a lot like my grandfather as he bemoaned that people weren’t scribing notes with quill and ink anymore back in the ’30’s or my mother in the 90’s as she worried about the demise of current English grammar in her classroom. Bottom line - as long as we’re communicating, emoticons, IM acronyms, or not - it’s a good thing!

TFLMS #:-)

We interrupt this blog for the following message:

2008-09-23T16:31:00.004-06:00

If you can't read the above (trust me - I"m getting to be that age as well!) read on:

Kurt appreciates your support during the last 20 years, so he’d like to give you something special....

Not only will you be able to order your tickets to this special 20th Anniversary version of A Kurt Bestor Christmas a WEEK BEFORE they go on sale to the general public, but you’ll also save 10% on your ticket purchase!
Just call 801-355-ARTS or log on to www.arttix.org, ask for the Kurt Bestor Fan Discount, and use the password “fan club.” It’s as easy as that!

Kurt has been busy for months composing new music, arranging for special musical guests, and designing an incredible set and lighting - all to make this the “Bestor-est” holiday show ever!
Come see why, for 20 years, “A Kurt Bestor Christmas” has been the “must see” of holiday concerts.

To reserve your tickets - click here!

Give Me My Words Back!

2008-09-15T21:03:00.003-06:00

Recently I read that women possess an average of 30,000 words in their vocabulary while we men (simple mitochondria that we are) have a measly 15,000. So you can understand my dismay at discovering that over the last 8 years some of these precious words have been kidnapped. Let me explain -

Growing up, I always thought that it was a good thing to be “elite.” According to my Funk and Wagnalls - “elite” is the best of a class or a group of people who by virtue of their position or education exercise much power and influence. Being on the “elite team” meant you were a cut above. But suddenly, that “doyen of linguistic knowledge” Sean Hannity has deftly changed the definition to something undesirable. Calling Barack Obama a member of the “East-coast elite” is suddenly a negative thing. Hmm - I guess I can’t use THAT word any more.

I used to proudly wear my “liberal” moniker because I knew it to mean “one who favors civil liberties and social progress.” But during the recent Republican National Convention, reformed (or should I say “born again”) “East-Coast Elite” Mitt Romney shouted his answer along with the crowd to a myriad of vitriolic questions - “Is government spending - liberal or conservative...? LIBERAL! Screamed the audience. Puzzled, I had to cross that word off my usage list as well.

Lately I’ve heard many new words and phrases thrown out by the religious right much like the cry of “She’s a witch!” back in puritanical Salem. They don’t support the troops! How unpatriotic!” “They have no family values!” “Only the Republicans are “compassionate!”

My patriotism? Well - now they’ve gone too far. So - I’m taking my words back! First of all, to be “patriotic” means so much more than wearing a flag pin or a yellow “support the troops” bumper sticker. I love our brave US soldiers enough to NEVER want them to use their weapons. Now how about THAT patriotism?!
And, if you ask me, I’d rather have an über-smart elite Harvard-trained lawyer running the country as opposed to someone who is just “one of us.” We’ve already done eight years of “dumb.”

Where I come from, fighting for civil liberties and social progress, are noble causes. If one thinks that life was so much better before the civil unrest of the sixties, just ask a black man in the South or an under-paid woman on Wall Street how THEY would like to return to the days of “Ozzie and Harriet?”

So, when it comes to my words, I get pretty possessive. Don’t tell me, when a neighbor’s son is killed by his own men that it’s “friendly fire!” and when sweet little Iraqi or Afghani children are killed by our “smart bombs” that it’s just “collateral damage.” I need to feel the horror of those scenes to remain human and I need my words to paint that picture.

Don’t cop-out and use the impersonal moniker “Illegals” to describe my mexican friends who are fathers and mothers just trying to make ends meet. True “family values” means actually valuing a family even if they don’t look just like yours. For families brown, yellow, single, mom & mom, or dad & dad - my favorite “family value” is unconditional love not bigotry, homophobia, or prejudice.

Lastly - these tricky euphemisms that you’ve been using lately - “exploring for energy” (for drilling for oil), “weapons of mass destruction” (for nuclear bomb), and “axis of evil” (which is used for any country you’re planning on attacking in the near future) - Give ‘em a rest. I kind of like the original versions. They have a certain “truthiness” to them.

So, now that I have my words back, how ‘bout a game of Scrabble? (Just keep your Mitts off my tiles!)

Behind every strong man.......

2008-09-12T12:04:00.003-06:00

I have a theory about which is really the stronger gender. Now, I haven’t tested this like Galileo dropping rotten fruit off the Tower of Pisa or like Einstein contemplating relativity at a lonely train station. But - after observing approximately half the earth’s “better looking” population for the last four decades, I think I know what I’m talking about here.
In short: woman rule the world!

I know, I know. History books (written mostly by bespectacled old male university professors I might add) are full of examples of chieftains, generals, and dictators flexing their muscles as they conquer another country or two before clocking out for the day. Marvel comics and Warner Brothers Pictures depict testosterone-laden super heroes with bulging biceps righting a capsizing ocean liner, taking on an entire rogue army, and deftly swooping up a swooning maiden on the way home from the office. Even now, as I put quill to parchment here, I’m watching a massive Olympic weightlifter hoist barbells the size of a large 747 over his head on his way to a gold medal. But look a little deeper and I think you’ll see just who is ruling the roost.

Even the most powerful despot and influential leader has to come home and, after he kisses little Ghenghis and tussles Napolean Jr.’s hair, gets an unsolicited critique of his job. “I can’t believe you invaded that country today, after promising me you would stop after Mesopotamia!” “Isn’t that just typical - you get a few extra shekels and you can’t help but buy a new chariot! ” Houses throughout history and kitchens across all continents have always resonated with the same feminine power. “Before you go downstairs, until Zeus knows how late, to plan your next pillage and plunder, I need you to take out that stinking garbage.”

Yes, as sure as that apple hitting Newton on the head, this theory needs no proving. In the meantime, we men will continue with the only jobs that are left to us - that of being “breeding stock” and reaching for the soup cans on the highest shelf.

Oops...hang on a sec....

Wish I could stay, but I got a jar of pickles that my wife needs opening.

Commissioned by another "strong woman" editor Pam Baumeister for the backpage of Wasatch Woman magazine.

Only in America!

2008-09-01T16:37:00.010-06:00

We're in the midst of a great storm (and Hurricane Gustav ALSO is touching ground!)

This maelstrom is our current presidential election.

Only in America can the son of a migrant Kenyan and a Kansas-born student raised by his grandparents in Hawaii and who just finished paying off his loans to Harvard defeat a powerful and well-funded U.S. First Lady and 2-term Senator from New York City

only to take on a 20-year member of the U.S. Senate

and former P.O.W.

who chooses as his running mate an unknown female hockey mom and moose hunter from Alaska!

(I'm not even bringing up "Teen-daughter-Gate!")

What a country!!

Obama-licious!

2008-08-29T01:17:00.006-06:00

If a picture says a thousand words, here is @10,000 words worth of a great night!!

DNC08 - Day 3

2008-08-28T12:06:00.005-06:00

I'm not sure who is orchestrating this year's Democratic National Convention, but my bet is that it's a composer. The way each night has ebbed and flowed and the overall arc of the Convention has seemed like a symphony to me.

Night one introduced us to Michelle Obama and her family which warmed our hearts and introduced us to a new side of the Obamas.

Night Two gave us the culmination of the much hyped "Hillary-Obama Smackdown" which, in the end - thanks to Hillary's grace and well-crafted speech - unified us in a way that was just about perfect.

Then came Night Three with it's dramatic role call where HIllary (as part of the New York contingent) asked to confirm Barack "by acclamation. With the two "heavy hitters" - Clinton and Biden, the evening turned presidential with Barack himself making a surprise appearance - a little appetizer for tonight's "Ba-ROCK Concert.

I've been assembling a video which I will finish tonight or tomorrow. Until then - enjoy some of these still shots taken at last nights convention.

Democratic National Convention 2008 - UNITY!

2008-08-26T23:27:00.002-06:00

At last....at long freaking last...we have party unity. For the last month, I have been hearing about the division between Hilary and her devoted followers and Barck and his minions. It had gotten so bad that I had stopped watching my beloved CNN because I couldn't stomach another conversation about the "great divide."

Well.....{big sigh of relief}, thanks to Hillary tonight, the party heads into these last few months much more unified. I'm not saying that things are perfect, but I'm more more confident about Obama's chances heading into the final stretch. It will be interesting to see if the Republican's can match the personalities we've seen and will see here in Denver. Certainly it will be hard for Cindy McCain to match Michelle's poise and passion. But - we shall see.

Check back here tomorrow as I hope to blog a video of the Convention so far. But now, I can barely keep my eyes open and we've two more exciting days ahead culminating with the Ba-Rock Concert on Thursday! (pssst...by the way, I saw the Black-eyed Peas in the hotel lobby. The drummer told me that they're playing Thursday. Wow. That makes Springsteen, Bon Jovi, and the Black-eyed Peas. Sound like a hell of final night.

BIG love.....at the DNC.

2008-08-26T10:09:00.002-06:00

Greetings from Denver! I'm still basking in the fervor of Ted Kennedy's impassioned speech last night, the classiness of his niece Caroline's tribute, and the sincere famial love portrayed by Michelle Obama. Yes - the democrats did themselves proud last night. (Picts to come as soon as I find a wireless connection for my laptop.)

Day two finds me sitting in the women's caucus. Like the disability caucus, I find
myself drawn to the minority causes here. In fact, it's what's drawn me to the Democratic party in the first place. If there's one theme that is palatable here - it's one of "inclusion." Minorities are not just welcome but celebrated and in positions of leadership.
I sense a bit of a revolution here....

On a very different note - I caught the Bill Maher show last night. My side hurts from laughing so hard even (especially) about his jabs at Brother Romney!

Looking forward to hearing Hillary's speech tonight. Stay tuned....

Democratic National Convention - at the Moment

2008-08-25T17:13:00.002-06:00

5:30 pm
Have been sitting in the Utah section (between the super powers of W. Virginia and S. Dakota!) Been musing over the fact that Florida & Michigan with their 1/2 votes are sitting smack dab in the front! Sigh...So far, I haven't recognized any of the speakers. But rumor has it that Jimmy Carter is warming up in the bull pen. Looking forward to hearing Michelle Obama. (Slated at 7:00!) Stay tuned.....

A Whole Lotta Love in this Room!

2008-08-24T23:49:00.003-06:00

As I drove with my wife from Salt Lake City to Denver, I listened via my XM Radio to the commentary on CNN, BBC, and (yikes) Fox News Channels. For the entire 7 hours (with the exception of 2.5 toilet stops and a moment of "Quarter-Pounder w/ Cheese bliss" in Laramie) I heard the parroting of right and left-wing politicos as they prognosticated that this Democratic Convention was going to be "fractured," "divisive," and a battle ground for the certain Armageddon between smug Obamaniacs (like myself) and still smarting Hillary-ites. The more I listened, the more nervous I got. What if they were right? What kind of bad election luck did this portend.

Well - no sooner had I stepped into the opening night New Orleans Jam-balaya! soirée sponsored by the DNC - then my fears vanished as quickly as the tasty jambalaya they were serving. Besides hearing Howard Dean's motivating opening speech and eating way too much shrimp and crawfish, we all got stuffed on some serious Delta blues and rip-roar-in' Zydeco featuring the Voice of the Wetlands All Star Band. This kickin' band was so get-down, swampy and funky that even the most caucasian member of the Utah Delegation was gettin' down with his or her bad self.

Most people wouldn't recognize these names, but I thrilled to see the incredible caliber of musicianship. From Tab Benoit on vocals to fiddle player Waylon Thibodeaux, harmonica player Jumpin' Johnny Sansone to percussionist Cyril Neville (yes - THAT Neville!) - this was a SERIOUS All-star band. Rounding out the group was mardi Gras Indian Chief Monk Boudreaux, Bassist George Porter Jr.. guitarist Anders Osborne, and drummer Johnny Vidocovich. Each song got progressively better and drew us all into its Cajun spell. Amazing.

Then - as a special surprise Randy Newman and Terrence Blanchard stepped on the stage and played a beautiful song written about the flood "Louisiana 1927." I tried making eye contact with Terrence - an old friend - but he was too into his playing and I just closed my eyes too and reveled in it.

After the last song, with ears still ringing, County Commissioner Jim Bradley, State Representative Phil Resien, State Senator Gene Davis, Petrina and I made out way over to party#2 - a mellow BBQ at a local art gallery. Not being patient enough to take the bus, we hopped on a horse and buggy. For Utah delegates - it was only apropos. (Come Come Ye.......)

Now frazzled and back in the hotel room - I'm not sure I can keep up this party pace. But if I attend only one party here this week, I'm glad it was the New Orleans Jam-balaya! I guar-on- tee!!

Two Ships Passing in the Night

2008-08-20T08:24:00.006-06:00

We’ve all heard stories about the dreaded “mid-life crisis” that, due to the large amount of coverage in “Cosmo” and “Oprah” magazines, must be an inevitable thing. “Will he go for the red corvette or the office secretary?” seems to be the only question.

Take it from one who knows (I’ve had three of these suckers at last count) - the Male Mid-Life Crisis is alive and well, but not as scary as you would think. Let me try and explain the causes, symptoms, and cures for this malady.

Men, practically from conception, are judged on performance. (Overheard at sonogram viewing “Honey, look what big feet he’s got! He’ll be a heckuva basketball player!”) Throughout a boy’s life, as he’s being nurtured to be the Alpha Male of his nursery to his neighborhood and the Commander-in-Chief of his basketball court to the boardroom, the measure of his worth is based primarily on strength, college degrees, and the size of his bank account.

For the first four decades, we buy into this propaganda until one day - usually after that 40th candle is blown out on the cake, one little thought creeps into our orbit - a little pesky notion that festers and pesters - “Is this all there is? Is this the sum of my life’s work?” And in that moment of panic, the red Corvette or Woman in Red can enter the picture. But really, all we want is to read a little poetry, drink a chai latte, watch “Sleepless in Seattle,” and ignore the corporate emails and business calls.

The irony of it all, is that - while we men are looking for an emotional connection in our lives - our women partners are on a ship headed the OTHER DIRECTION. This oft-ignored female mid-WIFE-crisis is just as real and pervasive. Women, who have spent a lifetime nurturing suddenly think “Is this all there is? What about the sum of MY life’s work?” And in that moment of panic, successful home scrapbooking businesses are started and advanced degrees in economics are begun. You see - you want all those things we’ve been trying to throw overboard - to be measured by your accomplishments, to have your intellect considered, and to design and build your own destiny.

The solution to all this may be simpler than Dr. Phil would suggest. Instead of one of us jumping ship or steering two different vessels in opposite directions, we men will just turn the rudder over to you ladies and then sit back in our deck chairs and enjoy the sunset.

"Note-able" Versions of "Prayer of the Children"

2008-08-19T08:19:00.003-06:00

As many of you know - the song that I'm most known for is "Prayer of the Children." Since I wrote it in a moment of frustration over the Yugoslavian civil war back in 1994, it has been sung by thousands of choirs worldwide. I thought I would start posting some of the more unique and moving versions. Today - I'm featuring renditions by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and a new group out of England - Paradisum.

Obviously - it's a tremendous honor to have the Mormon Tabernacle Choir sing anything I might compose or arrange. I've been lucky enough to have arranged a few songs the last couple of years. They've been an icon in choral music for over a century. This version begins with the song "of Dreams" from "Lord of the Rings" (which I arranged for them) and features Ryan Tani - boy soprano and Daron Bradford on Penny Whistle. It then segues into a TTBB version of "Prayer."

I like Paradisum's version because it has a timelessness to it. Using a traditional British choir sound with counter-tenors down to basses, they have done an arrangement which really brings out the fragility of the song. I also enjoy the solo tenor starting and ending the piece.

[click here to hear Paradisum]

By the way, you'll notice that Paradisum did not use the Croatian words "Dali cujete sve djecje molitve." That's just fine with me. In fact - I have been singing the last line in Arabic lately to remind the audience of the children in that part of the world that are suffering. I encourage other options and other languages as well.

Check the blog often as I hope to post more creative versions of my song "Prayer of the Children."

Thanks to all for keeping the "prayer" going....Kurt

[Beginning in @20 days, you'll be able to download different choir music sheet music of "Prayer of the Children" including the Tab Choir version, solo vocal/piano, duet, and a few others that I'm planning to arrange. www.kurtbestor.com]

Is it just me...?!

2008-08-11T18:11:00.007-06:00

Am I the only one not amused that my president is having a wonderful time "high-5-ing" Kobe and LeBron and basking in American gold at the Olympic natatorium while we are in the midst of war. I'm sure the men and women fighting for peace in the Middle East would love a little "R & R" in Beijing. Even when the Russian military surprisingly entered the Republic of Georgia and 1500 innocent civilians were killed while Bush and Putin enjoyed the Olympic Opening Ceremonies, all President Bush could do was give the Russian Prime Minister a momentary scowl and "tisk tisk" before returning to his seat next to Laura. (Instead of "shock and awe"...I think he's doling out "Awe and shucks!)

Now is not the time to take the family to Disneyland or the Olympics. More than 3000 mothers, fathers, and spouses will never have that opportunity.

Just 2 weeks to Denver...a little appetizer

2008-08-06T08:07:00.002-06:00

I know that many of you have probably seen this video from the JibJab brothers, but it's a tongue-in-cheek look ahead at the intense presidential campaign ahead of us. In two weeks, I'll be blogging daily from my "side of the aisle" in Denver as I attend the Democratic National Convention as a delegate for Obama. I hope you'll come back and catch all the excitement (and me in a funny Obama hat!)

Send a JibJab Sendables® eCard Today!

American Idol Auditions - One Dad's View

2008-08-04T14:10:00.012-06:00

I'm expecting my medal to show up anytime. You know, the one you get for supporting your child's activity even though you may have wanted to be somewhere else - ANYWHERE else.

When I heard that the outrageously popular singing show American Idol was going to make a stop in my city, I immediately wondered if my talented daughter Erika would audition. After a bit of hemming and hawing...then a bit more hemming, she phoned me to declare her intents. "Dad, I'm going to audition for American Idol AND I would love you to be my escort."

Selfishly, as a local well-known musician, I didn't really want to be seen at that type of event. But, I wouldn't dream of shattering my daughter's dream of singing for Randy, Paula, and (gulp) Simon! So - on the morning of July 29th we joined almost 10,000 other auditioneers in attempt to realize Erika's dream of the singing equivalent of an Olympic gold medal.

Thank goodness for the American Disbilities Act, we didn't have to brave the 90+ degree heat outside the basketball arena, but were ushered right into the air-conditioned EnergySolutions Arena to wait for further instructions. Watching each contest nervously take their seats, the energy was palpable. It felt like a high school pep rally on crack! (and I was the crotchety old principal who HAD to be there.)

The first hour or so, the audience learned a couple of old Motown tunes which were used as a backdrop for wide audience shots. I felt like a trained monkey as time after time the floor director said "Do it again - with even MORE energy." It started taking on the flavor of a hyped-up Oprah Winfrey Show audience after they've each received a book from the featured author. Not my favorite moment on her shows or in this venue.

Finally, they brought out 11 folding tables with curtained dividers separating each. "Wow," I thought. "they're gonna do it right out here in front of the nervous throng." It was stranger than I thought. Singers came down 4 by 4 and sang for a total of @:40 seconds before MOST were politely excused to go back to their college class, their barrista job, or on to their next American Idol audition. (Yes, there are actually people who audition in EVERY city! Scary.)

Erika did her usually great job and although she did not continue on in the competition, came away with a very good experience which should help her in future auditions and job interviews.
Even jaded Dad was impressed with her poise and professionalism. I still feel as if the show is less about true musicians and more about...well...the show.

To prove my point. here's a picture of a woman who DID make it through.

Yes - that it a ventriliquists dummy and yes, they BOTH are going on to the next round.

Enough said.....

A Whole Lotta Love in this Room

2008-07-24T07:52:00.006-06:00

To conduct the Orchestra at Temple Square in the 20,000-seat Conference Center in Salt Lake City: $30,000
To have 400 voices of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir follow your baton: $100,000
To arrange music for the legendary Osmond Brothers and lead them and their band through the tune: $250,000
To do it ALL AT THE SAME TIME: pricel.....no, actually kinda weird.

Now don't get me wrong, it was truly a musical highpoint for me to hear the choir swell on some chords that I actually penned for them and to have the power of the full orchestra play my musical arrangement. And, although I have worked with the Osmonds since the early 80's, it always takes me back a bit to share the stage with them. But, leading all of them together was a bit like eating an entire chocolate cake. Also the mutual admiration and adulation, hand shaking, and "'preciate cha brother"got to be a bit maudlin after a while - tho' still appreciated.

I also forgot how unique Mormon greeting handshakes can be. To have a 60-year-old woman grab my hand with vice-like strength made me feel as if I was meeting Hulk Hogan instead of Sister Barlow. And I'd forgotten how much I used to dislike the olde "How ya doin' Elder" handshake with it's accompanying shoulder hug (usually given by the High Priest with the worst halitosis!) One elder grabbed my hand and pulled me uncomfortably close and said in a slightly scary voice "Welcome home" with a twitchy wink for good measure.

Of course, my sporting an earring was probably a first among Tabernacle Choir conductors and I'm sure it will illicit plenty of "you'll never believe..." conversations in the ward house hallways this Sunday.

Thanks to Mac Wilberg and Scott Barrick of the Tabernacle Choir for the "once-in-a-lifetime" opportunity to participate and for not making me cut my hair and take out my earring!

Sure do 'preciate cha!

Feline Fans

2008-07-21T10:01:00.002-06:00

How I spent my Saturday:

http://www.ksl.com/?nid=148&sid=3812748

If you want to attend this very special concert, call 801-755-8078 and RSVP to Petrina. It's such a worthy cause.

What should we name our town?

2008-07-09T06:41:00.003-06:00

On our recent trip to Alberta and B.C. Canada - we ran into this road sign pointing to a town that I'm, frankly, a bit too scared to visit. Sounds like a western flick written by Stephen King starring Kevin Costner!

The Unveiling!

2008-06-30T13:29:00.005-06:00

Last blog post I talked about my new scooter (and it's surprising dietary benefits.) Thanks to my little sister and her ever-present camera, I have proof of my new "wheels!"

Here 'tis:

My friend Michael insists that when a man sits on a scooter, his "dangly bits" shrink. I'm happy to report that this is a fallacy. In fact - I have never felt so "manly" as I have the last few weeks cruising the streets of Salt Lake on my fiery red La Vie scooter. (It may have more to do with the size of my wallet since I'm saving so much money, than the size of anything else!)

Of course - adorning the scooter with the lovely Petrina - certainly helps turn heads. In the Harley world, she would be referred to as my "hide." But - on a scooter, that doesn't quite work. [Insert sound of revving engine here.]

p.s. The picture will have to be updated with my "Go Speed Racer" helmet! I have reached new levels of "coolness."

The Scooter Diet

2008-06-26T13:02:00.004-06:00

When I recently purchased my new candy-apple red La Vie scooter, it was at least, a middle finger to the Bush administration's non-existent energy policy and, at most, my attempt to diminish my carbon footprint and save some serious cash. While it has done all those things (I can't help laughing when I make my rare appearance at the gas station and top off at @$5!!) it has offered an even more surprising result - I've lost about 5 pounds!!

As it turns out having a car with the prerequisite cup holder and windshield nachos shelf was putting just a little too much love on my "love handles." Every time I'd go to fill up, I had been grabbing a Krispy Kreme donut here and a Rice Krispy treat there. It got to be like Pavlov's dogs. As I approached my neighborhood 7-11 to fill up my X-Terra, I began salivating for food as my car sputtered for gas.

In the three weeks I've driven my scooter to and from workout, the gym, and the library, I have found that the less-frequent gas stops and lack of a place to hold my Macho Man Burrito Grande and Bladder-buster Diet Coke is turning me into a lean-mean composing machine! I would have paid EXTRA for this perk!

The Scooter Diet - watch for it on a street near you.

The Worth of Doing Nothing

2008-06-16T15:38:00.005-06:00

This last weekend, Petrina and I had an opportunity to stay with friends in a cabin just outside of Torrey, Utah.The plan was to just "vegetate" for 2 and a half days amidst the red rocks and high desert of this southern Utah oasis. When it comes to weekend getaways, I'm usually the kind of guy who needs to be hanging upside down from some insane precipice, skiing in a whiteout in search of more Utah powder, or rushing from painting to painting in a museum. To just do "nothing" is foreign to me and I was a little reticent about this kind of weekend.

Wow - did I get an education. In doing ostensibly "nothing," the weekend did everything for me. It centered me amidst looming deadlines and my helter-skelter music world. It opened my eyes to things too infrequently enjoyed these days and it had me continually asking myself "why do I work?" As I settle back into my old work habits, I'm going to glance at these pictures and the even more beautiful ones in my mind's eye and ask myself that very same question.

Human-ities

2008-06-11T15:06:00.002-06:00

Recently I was asked to give a presentation to the UVU humanities department. I chose as my topic the concept that the humanities make us human. I began with having the students finish the sentence "The reason I'm going to college is to _______." Predictably, the response was "...to get a job." The rest of my seminar was spent debunking this myth. I presented my "Food, Fur, and Cave Theory" which simply put means that if we spend all our waking hours just trying to find food, clothe ourselves, and find shelter (in other words - just get a job and work) then we're no different than animals lower on the food chain. However - what makes us human are artistic endeavors.

The cause of our current state of affairs has been uncreative leadership. Wars are fought over power, money, etc.- base animalistic things. We need creative solutions that emphasize altruistic and loftier ideals - those that are found in poetry, music, dance, acting, etc.

The following are quotes I used in the presentation:

ACTING:
Life beats down and crushes the soul and art reminds you that you have one.

Stella Adler

DANCE:
Everything in the universe has rhythm. Everything dances.

Maya Angelou

MUSIC:
Music washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.

Berthold (Red) Auerbach

ARCHITECTURE:
Architecture is inhabited sculpture.

Constantin Brancusi

POETRY:
Let a man be stimulated by poetry, established by the rules of propriety, and perfected by music.

Confucius

My Life as a Gimmick

2008-06-07T16:26:00.002-06:00

I had an interesting discussion with a friend yesterday about celebrity and pop culture from the perspective of those of us who are known in the public eye. To her surprise, I told her that being "known" as a public figure can be a very lonely existence. In a way - EVERYONE knows you, while NO ONE knows you at the same time. People here in Utah all seem to know "Kurt Bestor" while very few really know "Kurt." This life as a "gimmick" can be a bit frustrating.

I find myself spending a lot of time greeting people while shopping in the produce section, changing in the locker room of the gym, and standing in line at the local coffee shop. The typical conversation almost always starts like this:

Aren't you Kurt Bestor? I love your music (or MY MOM loves your music!)
Umm....Yes, I am. Thanks for listening.

At this point, I'm keenly aware that they already think they know me. Numerous media reports have painted me with all kinds of monikers - accurate and otherwise. In this short moment, they usually have some opinion of me. I sense them thinking "Hmm....he's older (or younger) than I thought," "Wow! He has an earring. He must be a Jack Mormon," or "I see he's wearing a wedding ring. I wonder how many times he's been married NOW?" These kind of musings aren't part of a normal interaction because they're proceeded and colored by the facade of celebrity. The conversation at this point often takes some unique turns:

So - are you an active in the Church? (Translation for non-Utah readers: Do you actively attend the Mormon Church?)

I heard you got divorced - not once, but twice.

These kind of questions, in normal conversation, don't arise until two people really get to know each other. But when one speaks with a celebrity, they think they already know him. All kinds of social mores are breeched because people feel as if they own a piece of you. Once they say their "niceties" (and not-so-niceties!), snap a photo on their cell phone, and have me sign their grocery receipt - they toodle away and I'm left there alone in my "gimmick-ness."

I find living in Kurt Bestor's shadow a bit daunting. There seems to be two camps of followers - those who read me as a product of the local culture, a "holy sellout" and the others who deem me a "fallen hero" and gladly pushed me off the spiritual pedestal - no longer willing to consider me or my music. When I meet people, it's not hard to determine which team they're on. I find myself not wanting to disappoint and it's confusing to me as to which language to speak - neither of which I speak fluently. So - it boils down to autograph signing and smiling for the camera.

Of course - I chose this path knowing that with every concert ticket or CD that's sold there is exacted a price and it is one of increasing public notoriety and private solitude. I can't expect to manipulate the media to sell tickets and not expect people to wonder what I'm like offstage and behind closed doors. Don't feel sorry for me, success in music is not easily achieved and I feel incredibly lucky to enjoy what success has come my way - despite the price.

I simply yearn for people to get to know the "man behind the curtain." They may end up not liking me, but there will something refreshing in the process of a normal interaction.

In closing here's a humorous "celebrity" story that happened to me recently:

While working out at the gym, I notice two women giving me that "Look-it's-Kurt-Bestor" look.
After a bit, the braver of the two approaches me and asks:

Has anyone every told you that you look like Kurt Bestor?

Feeling feisty, I jokingly replied:

No I'm not, but I get that all the time.
But I do know him and he's kind of a jerk.

Nodding her head she concurred saying:

Oh, yes, I've heard that!

Laughing to myself I shrugged and asked:

Do you want my autograph anyway?

sigh.....My Life as a gimmick.

Tuva or not Tuva!

2008-06-03T13:47:00.004-06:00

[Just in case you can't read the above press anouncement:]

In the summer of 2009, Emmy-Award-Winning composer Kurt Bestor begins his global trek to discover the world’s most incredible musicians, fascinating instruments, and entrancing musical styles.

The pilot episode follows Kurt to the Republic of Tuva as he searches for the amazing Tuvan Throat Singers. Each talented musician can actually sing 2, 3, and even 4 notes at the same time. Once a year, these typically agrarian people gather in Kyzyl for the “Ustuu-Khuree Festival” to crown the World’s Best Throat Singer.
Flying nearly 6000 miles to Novosibirsk in Siberia, taking a rickety bus for another 9 hours to Kyzyl, Tuva - this is where the journey is just beginning.

The real story will be discovering a musician from the smallest village whose dream it has been to sing in this competition. Kurt will join him in his yak milking and sheep herding chores, eat his indigenous food, try his hand at Khuresh (traditional wrestling) and finally attempt to learn the mesmerizing Khoomei (throat-singing) method of singing.

I'm planning to film this show THIS July, so check back here for plenty of picts and posts as I embark on what is sure to be an amazing journey.

Sporadic Blogging - Guilty as Charged

2008-06-01T15:57:00.004-06:00

Funny thing, this blogging. You write down little snippets and musings thinking that nobody is really listening. But then - let a little space lapse between blogs and WHOA, do the letters of condemnation roll in! You would have thought that Starbucks closed for a morning or Fox pre-empted American Idol! Consider me duly chastised!

Since I last wrote, (I think it was about my support for Barack Obama) I actually ran for and won my race for National Delegate for Obama*. Facing rather stiff competition - among them a couple of Mayors, Democratic pundits, and long-time political aficionados - I actually came away with a victory. Although I chalk it up to my being a "gimmick" and a "name" in Utah, I'm dead serious about representing the 2nd District here in Utah admirably in Denver. Watch this blog then for copious pictures and numerous observations from what is sure to be a momentous and historic Democratic Convention.

OK - feel better now. It wasn't War and Peace, but at least I'm back in the blogging saddle. Giddyup!

* By the way - I am NOT a Super Delegate so don't wine and dine me. I'm just a Mediocre Delegate, I guess!

A Toast to the "Four Lads!"

2008-05-07T14:44:00.002-06:00

Liverpool

Found this poem I penned a while back that I thought you might enjoy. The OTHER side o' Bestor.

“Long live the Queen!”
In London her subjects genuflect,
As the Grand Belle of Buckingham minces and sashays,
Behind a hundred white steeds and a regiment of black-capped Beefeaters.
Tripping – rather curtsying –
With an occasional nod of the head and a flick of the wrist for good measure.
Ne’ery a woman can resist the urge,
To steal a glance ’neath bowed head,
To note the latest from the Lewis Carroll Collection.
(There’s certain to be a rush at Harrah’s
On purple-plumed pompadours and baggy hose!)
But back in Liverpool,
They salute with upturned “arse,”
While raising a pint to their own knighted knaves.
The four lads – with guitars as scepters,
And shocking locks as crowns –
Have recaptured the Commonwealth.
This time, her majesty’s navies remain in the docks,
Tending the “telly.”
Put away the muskets, scimitars, and sabers.
All we need is love. Love is all we need.
Arise Sir Paul, Sir George, Sir Starkey – Sweet John.

Oba-maniac! A Conversion Story

2008-04-23T01:30:00.005-06:00

Lately - everyone seems to be a political pollster with only one question on their clipboard:

Clinton or Obama?

While I live in the reddest state that ever has or will exist (Utah) and everyone probably assumes that I fall in line "leaning to the right", in fact I happen to be a long-time Democrat and am even running for National Delegate this year. So, I guess I should be forthright about who I'm supporting.

Let me preface this by saying that early on, I vacillated - from Clinton to Richardson to Clinton and then finally....to Barack Obama where I enthusiastically find myself today. I remember distinctly when my "who-I-will support-aha"moment happened and it was somewhere in the middle of Uganda eating dinner with a couple of fellow "safari-ans" last December.

I had been leaning toward Obama, but was concerned by his lack of foreign policy experience. Listening to these savvy Brits explain that they felt that the world would follow someone like Obama because of his fresh, youthful, "out-of-the-Beltway box" approach and becoming even more attentive as they stated that they felt that America would quickly right itself under his leadership, I found myself thinking "Yes, We Can! Yes, We Can!.....

As we talked, even our Ugandan servers and Congan safari guide chimed in and the feeling seemed to be mutual - that Barack Obama would immediately capture the world's imagination. It felt like a Lilliputian United Nations was happening and it was at that moment, sitting in equatorial Africa, that I committed to support Barack Obama.

I've come to feel that the best presidents throughout history (Washington, Roosevelt, Kennedy, ...(gulp) Reagan) all were figureheads who had the ability to raise the country's collective spirit and get them to exponentially make great changes. One just has to contrast Roosevelt's demeanor under the stress after Pearl Harbor with Bush's approach to rallying the troops ex post 9-11 to see what I mean. Hillary can demean Barack's inspirational speeches all she wants, but that's EXACTLY what we need right now.

Don't get me wrong, motivational speeches need to be coupled with incredible intellect and political acumen, (which no one can argue that Obama has), it's just that leading the country is more about raising our collective spirit and surrounding oneself with capable experts. (Score big points √√√ for Obama when he suggested appointing Al Gore to a cabinet post dealing with global warming!)

Upon arriving home from my Ugandan trip, I was tickled to see that this fervor about Obama was starting to spread. I was most excited to see the young, alternative "coffee shop" generation also starting to step in line. FINALLY - the younger generation has found someone to rally behind. It's not quite Woodstock and Detroit '68 - but it's a palpable mini revolution that is sorely needed.

So, with a little luck, you may get a glimpse of me standing with my fellow Democratic Utahns raising my Obama banner high. But, if not, I'm the one in the Avenues of Salt Lake planting Barack posters alongside the geraniums.

Innovators - Part Deux!

2008-04-02T09:49:00.003-06:00

Thanks for all your comments and emails about the Innovators TV Special. Here are two more songs - since you've been so nice! ;-)

La Capitana

Three Tools

Innovators - a rare DVD

2008-03-26T09:12:00.003-06:00

Many of you in the Utah area have seen the TV special "Innovators." However, since there are many of you who read this blog from outside the west and from overseas, I thought you might enjoy some of these rare videos. I'll try and post as many as I can. If you're anxious to see more, check out my YouTube site. [click here]

I'll post two at a time here over the next couple of weeks. By the way - this is the CD on which the song "Prayer of the Children" was originally recorded.

Kurt

Sage of Lamberene

Rainmaker

Into Light....

2008-03-12T14:41:00.006-06:00

One of my more memorable musical moments of the last 6 months was receiving a call from Craig Jessop, then the conductor of the famed Mormon Tabernacle Choir. He asked if I would compose a classical piece of music commemorating the rededication of the Utah State Capitol which was reopening after an extensive reconstruction project. He told me that it would be performed by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, the Orchestra at Temple Square, The Cathedral of the Madeline Choir School, The International Children's Choir, The 23rd Army Band Brass, and the Bells at Temple Square.

The "illuminati" of Utah were all there - from Governor Huntsman, Senators Hatch and Bennett, to esteemed Church leaders like Mormon leader Gordon B. Hinckley (his final official appearance.) The polished rotunda of the Capitol was full of joy and hope for a new enlightened day to match the beauty of the building. Though I could not attend (being 1/2 way around the world in Uganda), hopefully the spirit found in my notes were felt by those with hearts to feel and ears to hear.

Anthem for a New Year
"Into Light"
Dark of the year, morning comes slow.
Light rises pale. Hard frost rings.
The earth's a deep beast asleep under snow,
A deep beast turning all night in our dreams.

Pleasures of morning, in this slow light
Falling like snow and raising sky's dome
We gather here, all hushed and quiet,
Hushing as winter comes into this room.

From earth's deep places, the strength of the hills,
Deer come out to drink from the stream.
Wait for the ringing, the voice's clear bell,
The sun at its height, lifted into its dream --

And then it breaks -- do you remember
How the ice breaks in the spring of the year,
How the deer come to drink clear water
And the earth turns, returning us here?

So we return to the pleasures of waking.
Dawn rises slow; the night falls away
As dreams fall from us: so we are taken
Back from ourselves and into the day.

Lift us again, moon for the season.
From its warm nest the bird breaks into flight.
Set loose we spin with earth into blue,
Heaven's dome turning us back into light.

Katharine Coles, PhD
Poet Laureate of Utah

Cuppa Bestor in the Morning

2008-02-21T17:04:00.003-07:00

I get asked all the time about merchandise. Well, while it still makes me laugh to think of people sipping a cup of whatever with my "mug" on their mug, here are a few options if you just GOTTA have one. LOL

make custom gifts at Zazzle

3000 Musicians and One Lucky Composer!

2008-02-13T15:05:00.001-07:00

My Acting Debut!

2008-01-30T11:16:00.001-07:00

I know that De Niro is quaking in his shoes after my acting debut. Of course, it was quite a stretch being cast as a....pianist!

musiQuest: Musical Vignettes from Kenya

2008-01-25T13:15:00.001-07:00

I wish we could all go on safari together. But in the absence of that, here's a short video that will give you and appetizer of the amazing world of Eastern Africa - my second home. Karibuni!

Will Compose for Food!

2008-01-21T15:14:00.002-07:00

If there's one thing I can always count on, it's that after the last note of my holiday concerts has sounded, the last drop of egg nog has been drunk, and the New Year's confetti has been swept up, a certain fear starts to creep in and I wonder "Will I ever work again?" Now - after a quarter century of composing and performing music, you would think that I would have a certain confidence that the phone will keep ringing. But I still sweat just a bit....

I just returned from an amazing trip to Kenya and Uganda. They say a picture is worth a thousands words. Well - here are a few thousand words then that will give you a small idea of what I've been up to the last few weeks. [CLICK HERE] There will be more where this came from INCLUDING my once-in-a-lifetime trip to see the mountain gorillas!

While you're looking at those, I'll get busy planning some great new music projects that should make 2008 the "Bestor" year yet.

Happy New Year!

Kurt

A thought amidst egg nog and carols....

2007-12-02T13:24:00.000-07:00

Those of you that follow this blog know that, while I often celebrate the happy postive things that fill my life, I also muse about those things that concern me. Ironically, now - in the middle of the most joyous time of my year - I vacillate between that joy and the constant dull pain I feel as I watch the world around me -in particular, the madness happening in the Middle East.

I remember the moment that I watched the second jet hit the World Trade Center on September 11th, 2001. I was in a hotel room in Cedar City, Utah where I was taking a PTA-sponsored tour of Utah schools. As I sat on my bed watching the events unfold, I went through a myriad of feelings in the space of 15 or 20 minutes starting with a surreal fascination and curiousity followed by rage and intensity. But the feeling that has stuck with me almost continuously the last six years is one of determination to not just sit in the comfort of my house and watch the killing and hating through my peripheral vision. It's easy to do that with a smorgasbord of pop culture continually screaming for attention. I try not to let the din of Christmas commercialism cover up the crying happening daily in Iraq, Palestine, Afghanistan, and other turbulent regions.

I have to keep believing that all of us pushing and shoving for space on this planet really desire peace, love, and harmony more than war, hate, and disharmony. Surely - even the most radical extremist would prefer a nice home for his family, sufficient to eat, and just a bit extra to enjoy the simple things in life. The opium farming Taliban Afghani would rather just sell his beautiful flowers for decoration if he could make enough money. The bomb-toting Hamas Palestinian youth would rather strap on a book bag on his way to a higher education if it were available. Poverty and lack of education breed desperation and hatred. We've seen it here in the US in the inner city for years. We shouldn't be surprised that the same formula equals a similar result in other places.

I remember thinking naively, after Osama Bin Laden announced his ownership of the 9/11 tragedy, "I want to go an talk to him - ask him why he hates us so much. I want to play music for him and infuse a bit of love into his otherwise hate-consumed world." I thought at that time that he just needed to get to know us and he'd have a change of heart. I now feel that those on the extreme side of world conflict may be too immersed in their causes to listen to reason. However - the millions of others who are in the more sensible middle ground. They have become my focus now.

I am convinced that the answer to solving the MIddle East conflict, is NOT found at the end of a gun rifle but at the end of an out-stretched hand. Guns, bombs, and violence can only breed more of the same. That is why I'm constantly confused at my country's insistence on NOT talking with those who are against us. We can't bomb them into oblivion. Emerging from the rubble of Baghdad and Kabul will be stronger fighters even more incensed and determined to bring about our demise. Bush's "surge" is just poring gasoline on an already growing fire.

So - what do I plan on doing about this? I used to think that I had to do something cataclysmic ala Sean Penn and his trip to Baghdad, but I have come to a different realization. Change on a global stage can happen quite quickly when things are desemminated exponentially. So - peace will begin right here - in front of my computer, in my house, in my city and - if that's replicated in millions of other homes and places then - perhaps the hate will stop. I have to keep hoping. Hope keeps me going.

Peace on Earth, Good Will to Men.

Kurt

Christmas - BRING IT ON!

2007-11-29T23:14:00.001-07:00

(Appearing on KSL TV's Studio 5 announcing my Singer Search Winner)

Ok..I've eaten my last turkey sandwich and there's just a hard lump in the Tupperware where stuffing used to be. (Burp!) So....at long last "Tis the Season!" I've already done my first holiday concert in Provo on Nov. 26th and my Salt Lake shows begin on Dec. 5th. AND....after auditioning over 550 singers for my Bestor's Best Singer Search, I'm pleased to announce that Erica Richardson - the SECOND TO LAST person I heard, is my winner. She will join me for my Salt Lake City Shows. If you happen to be in the neighborhood - I hope you come catch a show.

www.arttix.org

Happy Thankshallowistmas!

2007-11-20T07:25:00.002-07:00

Sometime - right after the last July 4th firework was launched and the last sparkler was extinguished, merchants got right in to the next holiday mood by decking the halls with freakin' commercial boughs of holly! Now - I really don't mind if we skip Halloween (I've never been a fan of candy-munching kids donning the latest Paris or Britney costumes), but Thanksgiving now THERE'S a nice holiday. I remember it well....though it's been 19 years since I've really celebrated it. Now - I'm usually scrambling to dot my quarter notes and cross my treble clefs on the music for my traditional holiday shows. While I love that - I miss stuffing my gullet with turkey and stuffing - then in a triptophan-induced haze, falling asleep with unbuttoned pants while visions of Dallas Cowboys swirl in my head. Now THERE'S a holiday.

Bestor's Best Singer Search

2007-10-07T21:28:00.002-06:00

Want to join me on stage....?!

2007-09-11T19:33:00.000-06:00

I know, I know......you can't read it. Click on picture or go here (http://www.kurtbestor.com) and read about this once in a lifetime opportunity.

Kurt

Become a "Bestor Backer!"

* required

Email Address: *

First Name: *

Last Name: *

City: *

State: *

Zip Code: *

Country:

Concert info:

Mp3s,CDs

Sheet Music

Misc.

Powered by VerticalResponse

A Kurt Bestor Christmas 2007 - TIX on SALE!!

2007-08-27T20:01:00.000-06:00

If you're saavy enough to be logged on to this site, then I'd like to reward you with a little "insider information:" TICKETS for A Kurt Bestor Christmas go on sale to the public on September 7th! However...I'm giving you insiders a couple of bonus "goodies" - 'cause I like you!
1. A Couple of Days Headstart on the Public
I'd like to see all my friends in the best seats!
2. A Fan Club discount
Just stay tuned and in the next few days, I'll be giving you all the details about how to take advantage of these offers.

Thanks and Merry Christmas!

Kurt

Think snow!

2007-08-26T20:58:00.001-06:00

What a hot summer it's been here in the Wasatch Mountains. Hard to imagine that in a couple of short months, I'll be schussing down the greatest snow on earth at Alta, Snowbird or - like in this video - at the powder-laden Ruby Mountains. Just watching my knee-deep runs and I feel cooler already.

KeyBoom!!

2007-08-19T13:47:00.000-06:00

Didn't get up at the crack o' dawn with the rest of us "suckers to watch the demolition of the Key Bank Tower?" Well - hope you enjoy this video like you enjoyed your sleep!

Another Day in Infamy...

2007-08-07T10:49:00.001-06:00

Let me warn you right now.....this blog is not your typical cheery Kurt Bestor posting. But I feel compelled to air some intense feelings publicly. Hopefully, this will strike a chord. If not, at least I've started to share some feelings that have been eating away at me for more than 30 years.

Yesterday was the 58th anniversary of the dropping of the atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki Japan. In Japan, the day was noted in muted contemplation and introspection. Survivors quietly wonder why they survived when 210,000 others did not. The shame of living in a country - at war with the world at that time - is only eclipsed by the shame of the physical and emotional scars that will haunt them for the rest of their lives.

For us who live in the only country to have ever used a nuclear bomb, we spent the day like most others - mindlessly going to the mall, eating too much fast food, and watching mind-numbing TV programs. Why does the horrific reality of August 6th, 1945 register so low on our country's radar?

For me, the awareness began back in 1974 when I first read a small paperback book that my parents had in their library titled "Hiroshima." While I didn't have the world view that I do now, I was stunned at what I read - thousands of people literally frozen in various moments of everyday life - their charred bodies still shopping, sitting in city parks, holding a child. 120, 000 of innocent citizens in Hiroshima and 40,000 more in Nagasaki were killed that day.

In a documentary airing on HBO "White Light/Black Rain" - a handful of Japanese survivors recounted the moment of the bomb blast and the almost 60 years of pain that it cost. I was riveted as I heard one woman (then a ten-year-old girl) coming across her mother's charred body and, as she called out "Mommy" and reached out to her, her mother's remains suddenly fell to a pile of unrecognizable ashes. Another man recounts as he counted the nuclear-glistened bones of his 4 siblings and both parents who just hours before had been sitting at their family table together.

Somehow, at moments like this - all patriotism melts away and I'm left to grieve at the loss and sorrow felt by a fellow human being. To me, it wasn't some "just punishment" meted out on a deserving "evil" nation. It was a conscious decision by people in power. Yes - it ended the war, but at what cost. I can no longer hear the words ' collateral damage" or "friendly fire" used by our military and political leaders without thinking of the analogous scenario played out in horrific detail 58 years before.

I'm sorry it was my country that was the first and only one to drop these "weapons of mass destruction." I'm sorry that we don't at least give a moment of silence for the victims each year. And I'm sorry that we still have leaders and a culture that believes that unspeakable violence will somehow lead to peace.

To my Japanese friends - on this dreadful anniversary, all I can say is - I'm sorry.

FACT: Today in the world there exists (primarily in the US) enough nuclear bombs to to equal 400,000 Hiroshimas

Betcha never heard THIS piece...

2007-07-28T12:07:00.001-06:00

...even though almost a billion people DID on national TV in China. Enjoy a more classical side of my writing.

Doing Blogging Penance

2007-07-12T17:15:00.001-06:00

I know, I know.....it's been almost a month since I last posted! I just got swamped with composing. But I've added a couple of podcasts to this website. Log in and check out the latest installments of "Bestor's Best" and "Songs between the Tracks." Hope you enjoy them.

http://www.mac.com/kurtbestor/iweb/site/welcome

"Dobro Dosli u Dubrovnik!

2007-06-17T11:25:00.001-06:00

Yesterday, I had the singular and honored opportunity to be a performer as part of the "iCommons 2007" Conference in Dubrovnik, Croatia. While streaming my concert from my basement studio in Salt Lake City, I was beening heard by an audience in Dubrovnik and people all over the globe (following along in Second Life.) To me, this is a microcosm of the potential that virtual worlds like Second Life hold for connecting people of like minds and philosophies.
Because I speak Croation, I was able to converse with the attendees in English and the mother tongue of those watching in Croatia. I performed a variety of songs on trumpet, harmonica, and piano. I even sang the song "Vjeruj u Ljbav" by Croatian pop star Oliver Dragojevic.

To those of you that haven't tried Second Life, try creating an avatar and coming to one of my weekly concerts. It's free and easy to do. (www.secondlife.com) Once you're inworld - look around for "Kurt Jano." That's my name in Second Life. Would love to see you at one of my shows there.

Hvala lijepo (Thanks so much) to the people at iCommons and Cher Harrington for the opportunity to be a part of this unique conference.

Bestorcasting

2007-06-10T16:49:00.000-06:00

For those of you BestorBackers out there who want to hear the stories BEHIND the songs, check out this link and listen or subsribe to my podcast "Bestorcasting." I'll try and update it often.

Take care - Kurt

http://web.mac.com/kurtbestor/iWeb/Site/Bestorcasts

Opening Bonfire 2007

2007-06-04T08:41:00.000-06:00

Friday June 1st had me playing as the opening act for Bonfire 2007 - a 24-hour musical festival in Secondlife, a much-publicized cyber-world with over 6 million inhabitants. Musical acts ranged from many singer-songwriters, instrumentalists, and groups from around the world. Thanks to Colorado Technical University for sponsoring the event. Many thanks to Flameheart Sol for the invitation. Think of me next year!

Ignite the Night! Kurt and the Utah Symphony

2007-05-25T16:52:00.000-06:00

Hey All!

Just a heads up. I'll be appearing this summer with the Utah Symphony in a very special concert in Layton on July 16th at 8:00. You'll hear music I've written for movies, the 2002 Winter Olympics, Sea Trek, as well as a brand new composition dedicated to the servicemen at Hill Air Force Base. I don't get a chance to perform with a full orchestra very often, so don't miss this concert. And be sure to come up after. I wanna meet my Bestor Bloggers!

Get your tickets on this website:

http://tickets.davisarts.org/eventperformances.asp?evt=566&c=39&pg=

The Mom behind the Composer

2007-05-18T09:30:00.000-06:00

In the Kitchen with Kurt...and MOM!

Add to My Profile | More Videos

It's all downhill from here!

2007-05-11T08:50:00.000-06:00

I never would have guessed 19 years ago, when my second daughter Erika was born with Spina Bifida (like her older sister Kristin), that someday I would see her schussing down a ski slope. But as you can see from these pictures it finally happened. Thanks to the remarkable National Abilities Center in park City, Utah - another dream has come true.

Never-used Promo by Never-Heard-Of Artist

2007-04-29T07:45:00.000-06:00

Baptist Draw - San Raphael Swell

2007-04-17T09:27:00.000-06:00

They say a pictures worth a thousand words. Well - take a look at these pictures of my recent canyoneering trip down Baptist Draw in the San Raphael Swell. You do the math....

Secret Garden Ballet - Salt Lake Premier

2007-04-09T10:51:00.000-06:00

Last weekend, a decade-long dream finally ame true - I was able to conduct my original score for the ballet Secret Garden at historic Capitol Theater. It was in that theater 12 years earlier that I first met Ray Van Mason who choreographed a ballet based on my CD Seasons. After that experience, we made plans to write an original ballet based on the beloved children's story The Secret Garden. After we wrote the libretto together, we struggled trying to raise the money to mount the ballet.

Finally, due to Ray's hard work and perserverance, the ballet became a reality last year. Dancing to a synthesized orchestral track of my music Imagine Ballet Theatre premiered the ballet in Ogden's historic Egyptian Theatre. But this year, Ray found the money to pay a live orchestra. After orchestrating an hour's worth of music, it was my priveledge to be able to raise my baton and finally hear and see a dream come to life.

Kudos to Ray and his dance troupe for making a dream come true for me.

The Ballet Review:

http://deseretnews.com/dn/view/0,1249,660209583,00.html

Get a life - Second Life!

2007-03-06T19:35:00.000-07:00

OK - what would you think if I told you that I recently performed for a group of people from all over the world? We were all gathered in the same place while at the same time, staying in our individual homes. Everyone was decked out in their formal finest while sitting in their pajamas at the same time. Hmmm - Bestor, whatcha been smoking? Not smoking - just logged in to a world called Second Life.

Second Life is an Internet-based virtual world which came to international attention via mainstream news media in late 2006 and early 2007. Developed by Linden Lab, a downloadable client program enables its users, called "Residents", to interact with each other through motional avatars, providing an advanced level of a social network service combined with general aspects of a metaverse. Residents can explore, meet other Residents, socialize, participate in individual and group activities, and buy items (virtual property) and services from one another.

It's been amazing to me that I have been able to perform for people from Germany, Holland, Japan, Sweden, and Australia - as well as many new friends from all over the States. If you feel "Cyber-adventurous" - log on to Secondlife.com and come to a free concert of mine. While my avatar may look a little younger than I - it's really me and the voice and piano you hear are being played by me live!

There are some that say I should "get a life." I did - Second Life!

7 weird things about "Yours Truly!"

2007-02-26T23:18:00.000-07:00

I haven't felt like blogging lately. But - sensing a need to feed you undying thirst for knowledge about me (note the dripping sarcasm there!), I thought I'd post something totally inane. But - strange though it is, it's all true. Most of you know the "public" side of me. But - what of the stuff you DIDN'T know? Here now are 7 weird or little-known facts about ME!

7. When I eat buffalo wings (one of my FAVORITE comfort foods) - I eat the bone and all!! (See - I told you these are a little "out there!)

6. I use to have a pet pig named AMADEUS! (Discussions are underway to get another!)

5. One of my hobbies is to learn a phrase in every language. (Swedish - Sleng di e Wegen, din gamlen svet hess! which means "Throw yourself against the wall you big sweat horse!)

4. One of my favorite TV shows is the "Operation" and those plastic surgery shows. I am totally fascinated by all the blood, bones, and other gory stuff inside us.

3. I'll never ask for my food to be recooked - no matter how bad! ( I always feel bad for the server!)

2. My favorite word:"pulp." I just love the way it feels coming out of my mouth. (You're trying it now - aren't you?! lol)

1. I don't like chocolate! I know. I know. It's hard to believe.....

So - there you go, just when you thought you knew everything about me, I blow your mind with these little factoids!

I promise I will get back on the blogging band wagon very soon. In the meantime - a little trivia to satiate you.

Long Lost Track

2007-02-03T11:01:00.001-07:00

As many of you know - I had the opportunity to compose music (with my good friend Sam Cardon) and then conduct it at the Closing Ceremonies of the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City. Recently I found the track to one of the songs we composed. This piece played as all the athletes came into the stadium. What a thrill to have been involved in such an epic event. Close you eyes as you listen to this piece and imagine all the athletes, flags, and jubilation of the closing moment of the Games.

Long Lost Track

2007-02-03T11:01:00.000-07:00

The apple doesn't ski far from the tree!

2007-01-29T18:13:00.000-07:00

At the youthful age of 75, my mom and dad can still "schussboom" with the best of 'em! Here's a camera phone snapshot on the chairlift at Solitude taken by their grateful skiing composer son.

In case you didn't make it....

2007-01-16T17:46:00.000-07:00

Deborah Gibson made a memorable appearance on my 18th Annual Kurt Bestor Christmads Concert this year. Here's a amateur video of her section for those that didn't get to make it. What a performer! Too bad she doesn't have any energy! ;)

She was the consummate professional and everyone loved having her with us for the 6 shows in Salt Lake.

(video courtesy of Joel Ables)

Window to the New Year!

2007-01-02T11:48:00.000-07:00

If my New Year's eve is any indication, 2007 will be an amazing year. Invited by friends to join them in the Four-Corners area of Utah, Petrina and I drove 5 hours through Moab to Bluff, Utah where we hiked and partied or way into the new year.

We stayed at a delightful Bed and Breakfast called the Decker House Inn. Nestled in the incredible red rocks, this was a quaint way to usher in the new year. Friend and gourmand Michael Yei prepared a great meal of prime rib, Iraeli Cous Cous, and beets.
New Year's Day we awoke to a sumptious breakfast after which we went hiking in search of Anasazi ruins.

After two breathtaking hikes to several Anasazi ruin sites, Petrina and I have committed to seeing more of our incredible state. Just one of a few resolutions that won't be hard to keep.

A little extra something for you.....(click here)

2006-12-22T13:28:00.000-07:00

Here's a little "bonus cut" - a little stocking stuffer, if you will!

Merry Christmas Everybody!...........Kurt

To all the "Bestor Backers"

2006-12-21T22:08:00.000-07:00

The Bestor Tour bus is in the garage, I've un-donned my gay apparel, and put away the music after the 18th year of "Kurt Bestor Christmas" concerts. Now it's time to put on my kerchief and take a long winter's nap. but before I do, let me just thank you all for your support of me and my music this year.

My only wish for you and everyone is that we truly start finding a way to have "Peace on Earth and Goodwill to Men."

Happy Holidays!

Kurt

Note to Jenn!

2006-12-11T09:38:00.000-07:00

Jenn - as I have no way to reach you directly, I'll make this very public and thank you for the exquisite flowers. I was so very surprised, but then always expect sweet things from you and Aggie. So glad you enjoyed the show. I owe you a signed boxed set of CDs. If you still want to come to the rehearsal at Weber State on the 14th - you're very welcome to come around 4:30 or 5:00. I'll bring the CDs with.

Take care and give my best to Aggie!

Kurt

You know you've arrived....

2006-12-08T01:22:00.000-07:00

......when Bill Frost of Salt Lake Weekly magazine honors you with a place in his OCHO column. (The Chippendales photo was an "extra" bonus!)

The Ocho
Eight surprises at this year’s Kurt Bestor Christmas concert series at Abravanel Hall, Dec. 5-9

by Bill Frost

8. Bestor joined onstage by Chippendales dancers for a yuletide rendition of “It’s Raining Men (for Christmas).”

7. Perennial Deseret Morning News Kurt scribe Carma Wadley partying in the VIP section with Paris and Britney.

6. The flying pig from Pink Floyd’s 1976 tour (now outfitted with reindeer antlers), which Bestor “picked up cheap on eBay.”

5. Bestor and guest Deborah Gibson roasting chestnuts onstage over a burning pile of Trans-Siberian Orchestra CDs.

4. An all-new backing band comprised entirely of former Parliament/Funkadelic members.

3. A spilled 40 of milk on the stage “for Biggie and Pac.”

2. Bestor in a round-robin steel-cage match against Michael McLean and Peter Breinholt; winner crowned “King of Christmas.”

1. The shocking finale: “OK, this is it—the wig’s coming off, ladies!”

The infamous Family Holiday Newsletter......

2006-12-03T10:03:00.000-07:00

l The Harkers Herald l

Dear Friends and Family,

Sorry to be impersonal, but we hope you'll forgive a short Christmas letter from our humble family.

Whew! 2006 has been a banner year for the Harker family - what with our house burning down on the Fourth of July (that darn Bill Jr. and his chemistry experiment! He jokes about the "meth" he is making downstairs. He's never been very tidy!), my innocent little 14-year old daughter delivering her first baby, and Bill Sr.'s work success down at the slaughterhouse. In fact - let's peak in on my "Big Bear" and see what he's been up to since last year's newsletter.

Bill Sr.
When he's not clubbing, bloodletting and filleting down at the abattoir (that's French, by the way - I've been taking a class at the J.C. on Fridays) my sweetheart has been spending time helping troubled girls at the local Gentlemen's Club The Tan Fanny. Bless his heart, he's had to spend so much time there getting to know each girl personally so that he can help them "see the light" and find a better life. I'm so proud of him. Oh - my golly - I almost forgot his most important achievement. He recently had his number retired down to the "Up My Alley" Bowling Alley and Proctology Clinic in our town. Seeing his chili-cheese stained bowling shirt and balls hanging from the rafters always gives me a lump in my throat.

Larlene
Our teenage daughter Larlene has made us proud grandparents again. Even though she's just in her second year in 9th grade, I'm sure she'll make a great mommy. All the boys tell her how mature she is for her age. And - she won't need to find a job, as Mr. Hobbenecker, her favorite math teacher, is paying her plenty to pose for his teenage fashion website. (But only after she does her homework!) Coincidentally, her sweet baby boy Delmont has the same bright orange hair as Mr. Hobbenecker. Oh my golly, what's the chances of that!

Bill Jr.
Our sweet Bill continues to amaze us with his scientific talents. Not only was he able to get us free cable television for every room of the house, but he also surprised us with a brand new car that he can start without a key! That little smartie pants! I can't believe how much money he makes with his chemistry experiments in the basement. He tells me not to touch his mess downstairs (or "meth" as he calls it) but I think I'll surprise him and get it all in "apple pie order" before he wakes up at noon today.

Erlene
It's always a little awkward talking about myself, but here goes. My oh my - what a year! I was recently asked to continue as secretary of the Lowell Women's Aid and Float Beautification Society. We've already begun this year's parade entry. It's going to be an "homage" (there's another of those darn French words) to the town founder Lowell Lowell. It's been a challenge to craft a 150-foot tall statue out of nothing but corn husks and dry apple cores (which are the official float guidlines) and perch it atop Luther Peterson's John Deere tractor. But the top prize of a year's worth of rinse and sets from LaVoy's Salon makes it worth the effort.

I can't believe how lucky I am to have been blessed with so much and hope that this letter hasn't come across as too boastful. My good golly - we're just like everyone else - trying to make it through another day.

Merry Christmas - The Harkers.

(Those that know me have heard my rants about the infamous "Christmas Newsletters" that have been arriving daily in my mailbox will appreciate the inspiration behind this. Don't get your knickers in a knot. I'm just having a little fun!)

Salt Lake Tribune Article

2006-12-02T11:55:00.000-07:00

Bestor prepares annual concert - By Janine S. Creager
Close-Up Correspondent

Listening to a piece by George Frideric Handel in a church in Greenwich, England, several years ago, Kurt Bestor was moved. It wasn't only because of the composition or the fact the church was as old as Handel himself. Bestor says he realized he was "listening to live music." "When you listen to music, it is alive," he says. "Everything is just as alive as when [the composer] wrote it. View Full Story

NOW.....Deck the Halls! (Abravanel Hall that is...)

2006-11-23T18:39:00.000-07:00

Tryptophan kicking in......Zzzzzzz

Hope you had a great Thanksgiving!! Now....'Tis the season!!

We Have a Winner!!

2006-11-12T14:10:00.000-07:00

That's right!! My guest for this year's Christmas concert is none other than Debbie Gibson! (Congrats to Jenn Rhoades. She correctly guessed my guest after just the first question!)

Now know as Deborah Gibson, she has come a long way since those 1980's Teen Pop Idol days. The "Original Pop Princess" Deborah exploded on to the pop music scene at the age of 16. An entertainment prodigy, Deborah became the youngest person ever to write, produce, and perform the number one single, "Foolish Beat”, a record she holds to this day in the Guinness Book of World Records. Among Deborah’s many impressive career achievements include her album Electric Youth which soared to #1 on the pop charts and her #1 hit single "Lost In Your Eyes". Over the past decade and a half, Deborah has had many album releases to both critical, and popular success some of these include 1990's Anything is Possible, 1993's Body Mind Soul, 1995's Think With Your Heart, 1997's Deborah, and 2001's "M.Y.O.B.”, and her most recent release, 2003’s Colored Lights a collection of songs from various musicals. Deborah has sold over 16 million albums world wide.

In 1992 Deborah set her sights on the theater. She immediately landed the role "Eponine" in the Broadway Production of Les Misérables to rave reviews. Upon completion of her run on Broadway she turned to London's West End, breaking Box Office records in the London Production of "Grease" as Sandy. She returned to the U.S. to the national touring companies of Grease and Funny Girl as "Rizzo", and "Fanny Brice" respectively. Deborah triumphantly returned to the Broadway stage as ”Belle", in Beauty and The Beast, followed by the role of “the Narrator" in Joseph and The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, then taking the leading role in the Broadway production of Rogers and Hammerstein's "Cinderella".

Being incredibly versatile, in October 2002, Deborah again graced the stage as "Velma Kelly" in Chicago, the temptress of prison row showing the world a completely new side to Deborah. Her favorite and most ambitious role to date was "Sally Bowles" in the Tony Award Winning revival of Cabaret at Studio 54, “Deborah portrays Sally with Gritty Gusto, Verve, and Self Possessed Ease". (Billboard magazine). Certainly her most challenging, and vampish performance to date.

Most recently Deborah has been concentrating on television and composing. She was seen on Fox's “Skating With Celebrities” with Kurt Browning. She is also the composer and lyricist on two new musicals in pre-production for Broadway. "Skirts", written by Hillary Carlip and Katie Ford, and "The Flunky", written by Jimmy Van Patten. Deborah looks forward to seeing both productions on the Broadway stage in the near future. She is currently recording a new CD to be released soon.

I've had a ball arranging her music. I'll let that be a surprise - as to what she'll be singing. I'm tickled she agreed to be a part of my shows and looking forward to re-introducing "Deborah" to our Salt Lake audience.

A Kurt Bestor Christmas Quiz

2006-11-05T16:51:00.000-07:00

Ok everyone....
Sorry I haven't been as regular with my blogging. I'll try and do "Bestor!"

Right now - I"m consumed with getting ready for my 18th annual Christmas show. Toward that end - I have contracted my special guest this year. In year's past, I"ve had some great guests - Charlie Bisharat, Jennifer Warnes, Richard Elliot, Liel, among others. This year is no exception. But rather than just tell you who it is, I thought it would be fun to have a little contest to see who can guess the identity of this year's guest.

So - I'll post a new question every other day or so. Whoever guesses the identiy first will win a Complete Kurt Bestor Christmas Collection (5 CD set) signed by "Yours Truly."

So - without furhter adieu - here's the first question:

"This person is not comfortable on ice, but her gold-medal partner had her gliding before millions."

If you know the answer - post your answer here. I'll check it daily and let you know who the winner is. Good luck.

In the meantime....wish me luck as I countdown the days until my first show.

"A Kurt Bestor Christmas" 06 - TV Spot

2006-10-16T22:23:00.000-06:00

To my Blogheads - with Love!

2006-10-05T17:01:00.000-06:00

In the Salt Lake Tribune and the Deseret Morning News - this ad will appear Sunday. Thought you Bestor Blogheads deserved a preview. Should be a really fun show this year. I'll announce my special guests and behind-the-scenes news here first.

Just a little extra something in your stocking this year.

Kurt

p.s. If you want a fan discount - call 355-ARTS and tell them your a Kurt Bestor Fan. Then - when asked for the special code - just say "hohoho!" and voilá - you'll get a discount on your tix.