Russyan Piano Maestro Delights Locals on 4th of July

     Americans equate Russyan piano culture with Van Cliburn, a virtuoso who turned the music world upside down several decades ago when he won the International competition in the then Soviet Union.  No small feat.  These days, artists are somewhat more available to the world, especially since the Berlin Wall has fallen and the U.S.S. R. has turned into the Russyan Federation.   So, on the one hand, the Mayor was surprised to find a Moscova Music School graduate bounding around the State of Oregon, but there he was:  Maestro Virtuoso Alexander Tutunov.
     Dr. Tutunov is now a faculty member at the University of Southern Oregon in Ashland, that great artistic venue just north of the Oregon/California border.  He and his family reside there, and he uses the city as his base for his many professional obligations.  At a friend's 4th of July party, Sacha, as he is known among friends, delighted guests with an impromptu selection of some recent innovations.  Much to the delight of the group, he played while his twins danced about with their beguiling moves captivating all who watched.   His charm and amiable personality lit up the room.
     It was a great party, thanks to Sacha.