OK Piano

Christopher O'Riley leads a classical revolution

A A A Comments (0) By Noah W. Bailey Thursday, Mar 23 2006

One of the worst (or best, depending on your point of view) things about riding in an elevator or shopping in a grocery store is hearing Muzak versions of your favorite tunes. There's nothing quite as disturbing as an angry and energetic rock tune mutilated and neutered by some douche with a MIDI keyboard and a ponytail. Luckily for us, pianist Christopher O'Riley has spent the past few years fighting the forces of Muzak, reaching out to rock fans around the world with inventive instrumental versions of works by Radiohead and Elliott Smith and changing the somewhat negative perceptions many young people have about classical music. As the host of NPR's From the Top, O'Riley collaborates with young musicians who share his love of classical music. Thursday he'll bring the show to Richardson’s Eisemann Center, 2351 Performance Drive, for a live taping featuring the Children's Chorus of Greater Dallas and a host of teenage instrumentalists from around the country. Personally, I'm hoping for a rocking version of "King's Crossing" led by the children's choir, but I'll settle for "Fake Plastic Trees." Tickets are $5 to $50. Call 972-744-4650 or visit eisemanncenter.com.
Thu., March 23, 7:30 p.m.

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